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Technics Turntable question

Hi Folks,
I have Technics SL-D202 turntable circa 1979 that I got from original owner. It currently has some model Empire cartridge which I suspect should be replaced due to heavy use. My question is since I know little about turntables. What model/brand cartridge could I replace this with and where can I purchase this. I don't want to spend more than $100. Thanks for your help!
wjcorbin
8 responses Add your response
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rauliruegas
13,101 posts
 
Dear Wjcorbin: Here are two good cartridge choices:

http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?anlgcart&1153890123
http://cls.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/cls.pl?anlgcart&1153787095

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.
bignerd100
515 posts
 
Refer to Pabelson's post if you want your inexpensive set-up to sound better than it should. Even a very $$$ cart sounds bad if not properly installed.
wwwrecords
172 posts
 
If you can up your maximum by $10, I would recommend the Denon 110. It is a HOMC and it is a very good budget cartridge with Technics tables. You can get them from William Thackery on eBlob. He is the cheapest I have found at $110.
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pabelson
344 posts
 
If you know little about turntables, I'm guessing you also know little about setting up a cartridge. A mediocre cartridge, installed propery, will sound better than a great cartridge installed badly. That argues for buying locally, from a hi-fi shop that can do the set-up for you, rather than online.
soulbrass
246 posts
 
Shure M97xe is a good budget choice (MM). <$100. Try Amazon.com.
joe_in_seattle
114 posts
 
I used an empire 2000 III in the 60's. It was OK, but I upgraded to a Shure V 15 and enjoyed much more of the sound. You might consider a Shure or a Grado at your price level. I think either of them would beat what you have and be very enjoyable.
bignerd100
515 posts
 
Grado.
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