Shelter 201 cartridge versus Ortofon 2M Blue


I am considering the new Rega P-2 turntable. I need to use a moving magnet cartridge with at least a 5.0mv output. Both the Shelter 201 and the new Ortofon 2M Blue are 5.0mv. Has anyone either compared or owned one of these cartridges, especially the Ortofon??? The less expensive Ortofon 2M Red got a good review in TAS this year,(I am assuming the 2M Blue at $199 is better).... I am limited to using only a highout MM because of the phono board installed in my Creek SE5350 integrated amp. The Creek uses a passive pre-amp which has no line level and so the volume begins to gain at 1 o'clock setting. Both the Dynavector 10X5 or Sumiko Blue Point #2 are only 2.5mv and would provide only marginally loud volume. Had I know this, I would have bought a more flexible step-up device, but the Creek was cheap and has good specs. All opinion and advice welcomed
sunnyjim
The less expensive Ortofon 2M Red got a good review in TAS this year,(I am assuming the 2M Blue at $199 is better)....
The 2M Red has a bonded elliptical stylus; the Blue has a nude elliptical. Once you hear a nude stylus after a bonded one, you'll never go back.
07-31-08: Ekobesky
Let me clarify: State-of-the-art at the $200 price point.
What do you think of it compared to the similarly-priced Denon DL-160?
The Shelter 201 output is spec'd at 4mV; the Ortofon 2M Blue is spec'd at 5.5, but IIRC, the 2M series has been testing out at 7mV in the reviews.
I have the current model Rega P-2 with the Shelter 201 cartridge and for the money I think you will be very satisfied with this combination.
Ekobesky,
I sell the 2M Blue and it is not a state of the art product. Far from it. Real far in fact.

Perhaps "high value" or "best buy" are more applicable.

Dealer disclosure.
I just got a review sample of the 2M Blue and it's only been a few days but I can tell you that it is state of the art. It does, however, have a revealing treble which may come across as bright depending on your speakers. It's definitely a contender for best sub-$200 moving magnet.
Just my two cents........The Goldring mid-priced MM pick-ups may work quite well with your system. They sound great with a full spectrum of music, and across a wide range of bass to treble frequencies. It's "not as cool" to own a Goldring as it is to own a new Ortofon or a Shelter, but you may really love how it sounds with Rega and Creek gear............Good Luck and Happy Listening !!!