Which MM, MI, or Hi output...Nagaoka 300/500, Clearaudio Maestro, Soundsmith Carmen
Which one has the most organic and natural tonal qualities. I’m looking for something with a minimum of 2.0 mv to play in to a Naim XS and Harbeths. As much as I’m intrigued by the idea of going vintage, I’m now looking for a currently produced cartridge. I’d like to stay between $600-$1,500. While spending $1,500 should buy better performance, there are some dark horses like the Nag 300 and Sumiko Amethyst, both of which seem to have ardent fans. I’m an MC guy, and this is my first foray in to the world of higher output carts.
Nagaoka is a great cart…it makes records sound like records, Many of these carts nowadays are too thin and sterile to my ears. Like @mr_m Ive found found Clear audio MM to sound bright, thin. FWIW, I’m unimpressed with their lower tables too because, to me, they sound sterile like cheap cd players. My 2. YMMV |
