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Time for a new MM cartridge

My Grado The Reference cartridge is up to almost 500 hours and is beginning to sound a bit tired. I used a restored Thorens TD-125mkII table fitted with a SME 3009 II Improved w/ removable headshell. I used the onboard MM phono stage of my Yamaha A-S2200 integrated.

Have previously run a Grado Ref Platinum and Clearaudio Virtuoso Wood cartridge. I'm considering Nagaoka MP-200 or MP-300, AT VM760SLC, Ortofon 2M Bronze. Anyone here have experience with those cartridges and the SME arm? Any other recommendations?

 

I listen to classic rock, blues, jazz, metal and a bit of outlaw country.

128x128hedgehog

Showing 2 responses by lewm

lewm
12,522 posts
 

I mentioned the MI type, because I personally have a predilection for that type, although I own and enjoy cartridges of all 3 major types.  On the other hand, the last Grado I owned was a TLZ, back in the 80s, which I enjoyed for many years as my only cartridge.

lewm
12,522 posts
 

First, the Grado Reference and the Reference Platinum are moving iron (MI) type cartridges, not MM.  So if you really like those two, you might consider specifically hunting for another MI type, maybe move up the Grado line.  Otherwise, from what I have been able to tell, the Nagaoka's get better as you move up their product line, so you might consider the best Nag you can afford.  And finally, your other choices are excellent too.  The AT has gotten many favorable comments on line.  You will likely get dozens of different advisories here, but you won't go wrong with any on your existing list, either.

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