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Upgrade Denon 103 R to Shelter 501 II?

I own a Denon DL 103R on a Spacedeck with Space-arm. I have read much conflicting data on this cartridge. My question to those who have tried this cartridge and also either a Sumiko Blackbird and Shelter 501 II, is: Will either of these be a significant upgrade? (System: EE Mini-max phono-preamp, Jadis DA 88 Signature int amp, Merlin TSM-Mx speakers)
springbok10

Showing 5 responses by springbok10

springbok10 OP
711 posts
 
What about the Sumiko Blackbird? Or what else in the $800 (retail) price range?
springbok10 OP
711 posts
 
Thank you all for your help. I will try the Denon for a while - if unhappy, I will get the Shelter 501. I am told that this is Analog's cartridge of choice when they show the Spacedeck.
springbok10 OP
711 posts
 
Tom, I am tracking it at 2.68 now - does sound better. I cannot weight the shell as I would need a longer brass counter-weight.

The tracking force guage I use is superb - the Digital Chinese direct order one - works like a charm - no hassle either.
springbok10 OP
711 posts
 
I have set the tracking force to 2.3 with just the cartridge andit sounds pretty darn good! I will try the nickel trick and let you know.
springbok10 OP
711 posts
 
2.7. I'm not sure if it's better at low or high end. Just got the TT Saturday.
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