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Top phono cartrige to match jfrech's system ...

Please click on my system link first. I'm looking for a cartrige to upgrade from my Helikon. Also, I'm going on a buisness trip to Japan soon. I'm hoping I can buy something over there just a little cheaper-but this is not a requirement.

My system weaknesses are, just a little cool in the midrange, just a little hot on the top end and images could be a little rounder. Strengths are excellent detail, excellent bass definition, very quiet, transparent etc. I'm using Amperex 7308's in the phono stage. Telefunkens sound better...but are noisier. Bad trade off I think.

The only other possible upgrade is to a Aesthetix Rhea or Io. Maybe even the depth charge cap upgrade on my P10SE. My BAT Phono is great with outputs around .5mv...anything much lower and I'll have to use the transformers. Which I think cut down on quality some vs going direct to the input tubes.

My thoughts, and I wish I could audition these in my system, but I doubt I can...

Lyra Titan
Koetsu Rosewood Signature Platinum
Dynavector XV-1 or XV-1s

Any others? Any comments on why I'll like/dislike the above? Thanks for your help !
jfrech

Showing 1 response by gregm

gregm
3,415 posts
 
I'm not sure how low a compliance cartridge cartidge you can use on your SME4. (Maybe Twl can enlighten here?) If low-medium compliance is game, then the Allaerts (above) or a VdHul Colibri could be contenders. Ultimately, a Clearaudio Insider -- if you live the "hi rez" style of upper level clearaudio cartridges.
OTOH the big Shelter (which I haven't listened to) has been appreciated in many circles. BTW, isn't Shelter made in Japan -- in which case, maybe worth purchasing there.
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