VPI Scout - Cartridge Issues

I'm the proud owner of a new VPI Scout.
I was planning on using my Denon DL-160 and saving the expense of a new cart, for now. Unfortunately, looks like the 160 just doesn't weigh enough. Can't get adequate tracking force on the cart even with counterweight set all the way in. Sure enough VPI recommends carts of 7 to 13 grams and the 160 is 4.8 + 1 or so for the extra silver panel that came with the cartridge. So unless I have something radically messed up in the set-up, which I really don't think is the case - I'm looking for a new cart.

I want to keep my budget around $300 - probably will upgrade later, but need to keep price down at this point. In that range: Ortofon 2M Bronze, AT150MLX (both these are listed higher but can be had for $300), Sumiko Blue Point II, Nagota MP-200 and various others.

Opinions on carts with 7+ grams mass in this price range?
Needs to be MM or high output MC - going into MM phono stage of a vintage Pioneer receiver (which I absolutely adore). I listen to rock 70% and classical 30%. I love the sound of the DL-160 and want something that will give me at least the equivalent level of performance.