Shure M97 Vs. Grado red

02-26-10: Psychicanimal
...It is also important to note that Technics TTs need to have the spindle oiled ALL THE WAY TO THE TOP. Less than that will create harshness in the upper frequencies.

+1. Probably the smartest $4.95 that a Technics DD owner can spend.

You can also further tame the midrange glare by wrapping the tonearm (including headshell attachment collar) with teflon pipe thread tape. Costs about 80 cents to $1.47 for a roll.

You should also consider the STANTON 681EEE MK 3 if you want smooth sound, especially on a Technics S tonearm. NAD amps are smooth sounding, so perhaps you have power line noise which is coming through the speakers. Your best bet is to start with a cryo'ed outlet like the Porter Port and next adding parallel filtration. Try it. It is also important to note that Technics TTs need to have the spindle oiled ALL THE WAY TO THE TOP. Less than that will create harshness in the upper frequencies.

With psychic power and primal intensity,

Both should be good matches. The Shure has the added advantage of the damper brush if you need to track any warped records.

The Ortofon 2M Red should also be a contender. The Shure is probably the most forgiving, but the Ortofon will probably give you the most music for the money, and when the stylus wears out you can upgrade it to a 2M Blue, which has a nude stylus.