High prices have been discussed quite a bit. And while it is true that top of the line MC cartridges are outrageously expensive, I think there is an exaggeration in the original premise in this thread, that better MC cartridges cost $5k - $10k.
I paid $1650 for my Lyra Delos (now priced at $1995) and I would characterize that as a better cartridge. Even my $500 Dynavector 10x5 (now $650) was a decent cartridge.
Sumiko makes a $550 and a $1250 cartridge that both get high marks by reviewers.
Sure, we'd all like a system with performance like a Bugatti Veyron, and that would mean a $10k+ phono cartridge, with superlative performance and tons of diminishing returns in the pricing to boot, but my point is, we can have better MC cartridges with better performance at $1,200 - $3,500. Lyra Kleos & Koetsu Rosewood are both included in that price range.
I paid $1650 for my Lyra Delos (now priced at $1995) and I would characterize that as a better cartridge. Even my $500 Dynavector 10x5 (now $650) was a decent cartridge.
Sumiko makes a $550 and a $1250 cartridge that both get high marks by reviewers.
Sure, we'd all like a system with performance like a Bugatti Veyron, and that would mean a $10k+ phono cartridge, with superlative performance and tons of diminishing returns in the pricing to boot, but my point is, we can have better MC cartridges with better performance at $1,200 - $3,500. Lyra Kleos & Koetsu Rosewood are both included in that price range.