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sme tonearm cartridge help Please?? 3009 S2

I have the S2 improved with detachable shell..I have never used this arm, I have looked at many forums and a lot of folks have educated guesses etc. But I was wondering if anyone had actually used the ortofon OM 20 or 30 with this arm? The numbers come out well with the specs from ortofon.... I need a 200 dollar or so cartridge and am looking for some real world advice. I have extremely detailed speakers so I am afraid of too much harshness...if someone has a better combo they have tried I am open to suggestions... but from what i have seen in the cartridge world, anything that tracks at 1.5 grams or less the ortofon seems like the choice. Thanks everyone for any insight!
gcharl01

Showing 3 responses by piedpiper

piedpiper
753 posts
 
The Grado Prestige Gold is $180 list, tracks at 1.5 grams and is smooth and warm.
piedpiper
753 posts
 
There are two weights for that arm at 3 grams and a 5 grams if I recall. Alfred at www.kraudioproducts.com can tell you and provide parts as well.
piedpiper
753 posts
 
The Grado hum issue is table dependent. I've only heard of the problem. In 14 years as a Grado dealer I've never run across it. I don't know if the Ariston is compatible or not in this regard. With your concern about harshness it sounded like it might be the ticket. Obviously, it's a matter of taste. At this price, you have to give up something and the Grados error in the direction of richness which can be quite satisfying if not the Nth degree in resolution.
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