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High end cartridge

I post similar question in other forum, but didn’t get help I need.


I want buy high end cartridge to replace my old one, I have very little experience with cartridges, only entry level of Ortofon, Denon, and Shelter, the last two brands I didn’t like them. So I like ask folks here who have great experience with cartridges, and with VPI FB Gimbal tonearm.

 

I’m concern very much about SQ differentials, I like full body sound, live, punch, authority, and neutral. My first choice will be Ortofon Cadenza black, but before go for it, I want check other brands for better alternative.

 

I see many people go for Lyra or Dynavector, I’m aware they are high end, but I have doubt the sound charastric of these cartridges not close to what I want, but more similar to Denon, and Shelter.

 

I wonder if my assumptions are correct?

 

And about Soundsmith, Benz, Van Den Hul, how good are these? And compare to Ortofon?

 

And will be other brands worth to check?

 

Thanks to all.

knight7m
kingharold
304 posts
 

I run the Ortofon Cadenza Bronze on a Clearaudio Performance DC Wood table with the Tracer tonearm. I love the SQ of the combination. The Cadenza Bronze includes the Replicant 100 stylus and the Aucurum voice coil wire in a great cartridge priced less than $2,500.00. I provides an expansive sound stage and a very dynamic and realistic sound.

dinov's avatar
dinov
802 posts
 

Dynavector is a real safe bet, good synergy with VPI. Don’t overlook them. 

wfowenmd
76 posts
 

Pricey but the most revealing pair I’ve heard: Tri Planar + VDH. I listen to trio and quartet jazz.

petaluman
140 posts
 

Mijostyn, while I don't disagree with much of what you said, I was surprised at your attack on the character of Soundsmith.  I have never heard their cartridges, but it only took a few seconds on their web page to find multiple reasons to believe that the 2 cartridges you mention differ by more than a bit of wire.  If you have some inside knowledge that their advertising is false or had a bad experience with them, please let us know.  If you've heard both cartridges, please tell us how they sounded to you.  It's clear you prefer HO cartridges, but singling out Soundsmith on that score seems rather arbitrary.  Our entire hobby often seems to be willing to spend more and more on less and less improvement, but that's not at all the same thing as saying that a specific manufacturer is intentionally ripping people off.

bastarr1's avatar
bastarr1
4 posts
 

My opinion,
you can’t go wrong with a kiseki Purple Heart. I have one on my VPI prime signature with a 10“ gimbal fat boy tone arm.  Approx $2800

You know what they say about opinions 😂

 

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