Help with MC Cartridge Recommendation to Swap from Ortofon 2M Black MM


I'd like to dip my feet into the MC world.  What would be a good introduction as I am going from an Ortofon 2M Black MM?  

Here's my setup

Manley Chinook tube phono preamp
Primaluna Dialogue Premium HP integrated
PSB Imagine T2 loudspeakers

I'd like to stay south of $1k.  I listen to all sorts of music, but on vinyl it would be in this order:

Jazz 50%
Rock 40%
Folk/Other 10%

I've never had a MC so I don't know where to start.  Thanks all!!!
128x128jbhiller
Stringreen, Interesting to read your post about the Windfield.  I own a rather more rare now vintage Ortofon, the MC7500, which I think pre-dates the Windfield, may be the "father" of the Windfield.  It hadn't been in use much for the last few years, but I am listening to it regularly these days, and I think it is very fine.

JB. What are you going to do about phono gain?  And if you must scratch this itch, I would say get an ART9, especially if the gain of your Chinook is marginal for a really LOMC.  (The ART9 puts out more signal voltage than most MCs not in the "High Output" category.)
The shelter 501 is where I went after the 2m black.   Incredible detail that made better sound than 2m but i couldn't handle
the lack of "thump" and power from the MM.   I went back to clearaudio maestro and im very happy.     

Mc is great for your jazz but think carefully if you like to rock out.
Ortofon dealer:
I second gshepardbuster...I'd include the Ortofon MC Cadenza Red.  It's detailed, with excellent balance, nice percussive weighty punch, nice big soundstage, an excellent value too!

jbhiller
I recently went through the same experience. I was using a 2M Black as well. I went to my first MC, and opted for the Benz ACE LOMC. So far so good, but I did have to add a SUT as the output is only .4 MV. The compliance of this cartridge works well with the effective mass of my tonearm, and I am happy with the results so far, but am looking forward to experimenting with some other MC's in the future.

 Good luck in your quest

Crazyeddy, 

Do you like the Benz over the Ortofon 2M Black?  What do you like and dislike about the 2 cartridges?  I'd love to hear your thoughts.