Doug's response to the original post is about the clearest, most well-reasoned response that I have read on this subject. Even better, with some modification to component category, it can be applied to other "what do you recommend" type posts. Very well done and excellent advice.
What cartridge, what output?
I have an AR ETL-1 turntable with FT-3 tonearm. I need to get a new cartridge. I have a BAT VK20 preamp with phono section that has 58 dB gain, and an Odyssey dual mono amp with plenty of power to drive some fairly inefficient but great sounding vintage Snell Type A speakers. According to the KAB site, as I read it, that should allow me to use a MC cartridge of .5 mV or so. Does that seem right? What cartridge would you recommend for that system? Cost is flexible, but I would be happy to spend $500 or less for something new or almost new.