in your price range, try a Lyra Delos or Ortofon Kontrapunkt B or Dynavector 17d3. May have to buy used to get down to $1000 like I did.
Which MC for my setup?
My current vinyl rig consists of a VPI classic fitted with a Orotfon 2M Black and a Whest P30R phono pre. I am looking to try out a MC cart in the $1000 price range or less. While I like the 2M, it seems a little bright at times on classic rock albums. I mainly listen to classic rock and blues.