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Upgrade from clearaudio maestro mm to $2-3k mc cart?

Hello,

I’m interested in replacing my clearaudio maestro mm cart with an mc cart in the $2-3k range and am looking for advice. I’m due for a retip soon and have been thinking I want to know what the mc world is like. The maestro has been great but I’d like to hear the next level. I’ve had my eye on the clearaudio talisman, partially because I’ve been so happy with my clearaudio gear so far that I’d like to stick with them but also it seems to have good reviews. If anyone can comment on the talisman or other mc carts in the same range, I’d love to hear what you have to say.

Rest of the system: The tt is a cleaudio concept wood w/ satisfy tonearm. Phono stage is a pro-ject tube box ds2. The amp is a Line Magnetic LM219ia. Phono stage and integrated have been tube rolled. Speakers are Klipsch Forte IV’s. 
 

Thanks!

durte30

Showing 4 responses by tablejockey

tablejockey
4,012 posts
 

Check out US Audiomart. Can't link it here.

If you want a tube phono stage-Chinook $2k Fosgate $1250

I've had both units side by side in my setup. The Fosgate subjectively sounds more convincing/organic BUT not for you if you must have absolute quiet.

It's a true all tube(rectified, active gain for MC) that means tube hiss will be heard in between cuts playing at concert level, or you're that guy who puts his ear against the speaker grill, then posts a thread complaining somethings wrong with his setup.

Pair  a $1K LOMC with either, and you will have a great setup. 

Both units perfect for your next turntable upgrade and the $3K LOMC.

You could likely negotiate price on  both-particularly the Fosgate since it's long out of production. Not sure if Musical Surroundings still supports it. My Foz is 10 years old.

tablejockey
4,012 posts
 

$2-3K MC cart with your table/phono stage is overkill.

$1K MC +$2K phono stage will get you more performance. Spend as much as you can tolerate on the phono stage.

tablejockey
4,012 posts
 

duerte30-

I meant to include in my last post a new unit also. Hagerman Trumpet looks to be a popular $1k($1200 price point tube unit if you want new.

Your overall setup is  about the same level as mine, so just passing some experience to save you the hassle. Audio gear shopping without home trial sucks.

Pair the Trumpet with any of the popular $1k LOMC  and you should hear what the fuss is all about. Total damage will be under $3K with huge sonic upgrade. Don't get sucked into thinking you need new cables.

 

tablejockey
4,012 posts
 

duerte30-

Dropped the Hagerman in for the price comparizon to the used Fosgate, which I'm still using. 

Didn't realize the Project increased in cost over the years. Wouldn't know how the 2 compare. You may be right it's not being a justified expense. There may be a thread on hat particular move?

 

 

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