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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
jhills
610 posts
 

Doing research to find a replacement for my many years old Audioquest high output MC cartridge (with a budget of $500. to $2K ) I came  across many favorable reviews of AT's VM760SLC. While detail and sound stage is important to me, as I have a large collection of 80s rock - being able to deliver a full and dynamic performance is important as well.

For less than $1K, the AT, VM760SLC may check all of your boxes and is one on mijostyn's earlier list of suggestions.

I ordered one yesterday, hopefully it will live up to all it's positive personal and professional reviews.........Jim 

audiomark1234
17 posts
 

Get the best ZYX your budget will allow. They are all fantastic!

bigslacker's avatar
bigslacker
41 posts
 

@polkalover  are you me? 😀

I just put a Paua Mkii in my system a few weeks ago and the sound is amazing.

@knight7m Sound smith makes cartridges in many price ranges. They also have high low and med output cartridges. I would call into their voice number and talk to them about your system and your budget. They will make a recommendation. I've never heard a bad review on the performance on their cartridges.

 

(ps. I didn't read the whole thread 😏 )

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