The Nags will give you what you want. You might also consider the Audio Technica VM750SH. I have one on a second system and it’s clear, detailed, and dynamic especially at low volume, and tracks perfectly with almost no vinyl noise.
What cartridge for a prime super scout 10.5 arm.? Budget $500
Just looking for any cartridge recommendations for a used prime super scout I just picked up with 10.5 arm. I got a great deal on the table but don’t want to spend a fortune on the cartridge. I had a Sumiko Bluepoint N0 3 which sounded great to me but I accidentally damaged the needle. The cantilever broke off so that’s done. On to the next thing. My system is a Mcintosh C50 preamp and MC452 amp with NHT 3.3 speakers. The C50 has both MM and MC. I listen to anything from Kiana Krall to David bowie and I like a good low end and good midrange. I’d like to try another cartridge since I have to replace Sumiko. Budget is $500.00
Thanks in advance
Thanks in advance
- ...
- 19 posts total
Good question regarding why not get another Sumiko. I figured why not try another cartridge since there are so many out there. I thought the Sumiko sounded fine, however what am I comparing it against? I still have the body and I can perhaps get it rebuilt and have as a backup. I asked earlier about the Denon but I haven't received any responses on that yet. The reason I mentioned it is because my dealer who installed my Sumiko said that he has installed a Denon L110 on a VPI for a customer and it sounded great and it's in my price range. The VM750SH also sounds interesting. Not an easy decision to make |
My first MC, Audio Technica AT33PTG/II, ML on boron, $50. over your budget excellent sounding, tight channel balance and wide separation. https://www.audio-technica.com/en-us/cartridges/type/moving-coil/at33ptg-2 you can get just in your budget here https://www.ebay.com/itm/254980772116?epid=27032781048&hash=item3b5e09d114:g:yjsAAOSwQVRebF4a My friend had a NOS Goldring Eroica LX, no way to play MC, gave it to me, I have 3 tonearms, we can compare cartridges quite readily, it sounds excellent also, just in budget, however I think the AT fits your stated preferences. https://www.ebay.com/itm/254804394240?hash=item3b53868100:g:Yq0AAOSwVH1f0qF5 MM I also still like the sound of my MM cartridges, Shure V15Vxmr body with a new Jico SAS stylus on Boron, and actually prefer my lightly used AT440ML ML on aluminum to it for some content, primarily it’s greater separation over the Shure. The current model is 540, here with a spare headshell, under your budget, replaceable stylus in the future, ML on aluminum https://www.audio-technica.com/en-us/cartridges/type/moving-magnet/vm540ml-h AT has other MM that cost a bit more still in your budget to consider. |
The Sumiko Blue Points are tried and true. The number 3 (have not heard one yet) is just the latest iteration in the line. I had a 2 in my system while my Lyra was being serviced. It’s a fine cart for less than 500.00… I’ve played with others (Clearaudio, Ortofon, etc.) the Sumiko is the one I would go back to. The others were fine, but I liked the Sumiko the best for what it was. |
- 19 posts total