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Technics SL1200MK2 Cartridge Discussion

Hi,

I'd like to have a thread on cartridges that work with the Technics SL1200MK series tables.

I want to buy a Technics SL1210MK2 (the new black version from Musicians Friend) and need a cartridge recommendation. I am using a Musical Fidelity A308CR preamp that has MM/MC capability. My amps are Bryston 7B ST's and I have a pair of B&W Signature 800's on the way to replace my N801's. The MF Preamp is rolled off on top and the system is very listenable for long lengths of time. I'd describe it as detailed, but not too bright.

I really want to try the Technics table as it is relaible and inexpensive ($400 shipped or less for a used table if I go the ebay route). Please do not try to talk me into a different table. I had a VPI Scout and Dynavector 20x (High output) that I sold because I just wasn't using it. I'd like to keep this cheap so that I have decent TT available when and if I want to use it.

What can you recommed for a cart? I'd like to keep $160 to $200 as a max and stay lower if possible. Here is what I am considering:

Denon 103 (not the R)
Denon 110
Denon 160

Audio Technica 440 MLa

Shure M97xe

I do not know what carts work well with the Technics tonearm. I know that it is light and some threads recommend a Sumiko headshell for the Denons. What do I need to know here before buying a table and cart.

Thanks.
tigerwoodkhorns

Showing 1 response by stick70

stick70
64 posts
 
I'm using a heavily modified technics 1200 TT. Three of the Mods are from KAB. Record clamp, Tone arm Damping and Iso Footers. Headshell is Sumiko with Dynavector 10x5 cart. Also SDS Turntable Mat. Running that thru a Jolida JD9a with NOS Tubes. Speakers are B&W 803's, Theta Enterprise Mono's.

Sound is very detailed and evolving. I'm very pleased with this setup. The Jolida has a ton of Gain so it took me a while to get the loading correct but once dialed in it's really a high end setup even thought many others may disagree. This TT is very flexible if you want to change the tonearm. Origin Live makes a few that work well this TT. The table is built like a tank. Very stable. There’s a lot of info posted @ the Vinyl Engine. Kevin @ KAB is a wealth of knowledge on this table and sells many mods. I think you’ll really fall in love with this table once you get it into your system.
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