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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 8 responses by tjnindc

tjnindc
91 posts
 
First, my KAB mod 1200 arrived today. I can't wait to get home and take it for a spin. At Kevin's suggestion, I went with the Goldring 1022 GX. Of course, I'm already curious about other options.

Johnnyb53: Did you need to do much about the weight on the Denon's? I've heard that they can be kind of light for the Technics. Are you using the Sumiko headshell?
tjnindc
91 posts
 
Has anyone had humming issues on the phono stage with their Technics with the volume cranked up? I did not notice it when my Rega was hooked up. I'm about to start playing with the ground and whatnot.

Otherwise, the KAB modded 1200 is everything it's talked up to be! I'm hooked.

First spin: Grant Green, Idle Moment (180g)
Most recent spin: Stereolab, Emperor Tomato Ketchup
tjnindc
91 posts
 
Has anyone found good cartridge cases for their spare headshells and cartridges? If so, where did you get them. I'm about to pick up the Sumiko headshell and Denon 160. I'd like somewhere safe to store my other combo.
tjnindc
91 posts
 
Resource for mounting Denon 160 on a Sumiko headshell? I have heard a couple of suggestions for the best place to find a resource for how to most accurately mount the Denon to the Sumiko. BUT, I can't seem to find them.

Any advice? Use the Technics overhang tool? Use the Denon overhang guide? Use the Denon 'leveler'? etc.

I know that I have read some of this here before. Thanks.
tjnindc
91 posts
 
Johnnyb53: Did your Denon 160 come with an overhang tool (mine did)? If so, did it work as well? Thanks for the downloadable protractor--it's printing now.
tjnindc
91 posts
 
Does anyone know if you can retip a dl 160? My twin two years olds got to it one day before I pulled the cartridge off...
tjnindc
91 posts
 
HAHAHA. I even got a case when I ordered the 160 so that I could keep it and my Goldring stored safely. sigh. Those two years olds are just a bit quicker than us 40 year olds on occasion.

I was just looking at those two cartridges. My gut says to go for the AT150MLX especially since it has that stylus protector built in. I need a second Sumiko headshell to mount the Goldring on, too. Time for an order...

And time to make the new routine, routine. Removing headshell now.
tjnindc
91 posts
 
Case Question: One more thing, has anyone found a cartridge case that accommodates the Sumiko headshell?
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