2. analog
  3. 189306-1643

AT-OC9XMLvs AT-OC9XSH

Any experience comparing these carts?  Is there really a difference in stylus shape between the two?  

I have owned a few OC9ML and was not disappointed.  

I'm looking for a new cart coming off of a Lyra Skala and don't expect quite that refinement but would like equal or improved dynamics.  Also looking for solid imaging and a good soundstage.

Arm is a Jelco TK-850L on a severely modified VPI TNT.  All Herron Audio electronics.  

bpoletti
lewm
12,493 posts
 

Viridian, that $500-$600 price is doable if you buy from Japan, and that’s about what I paid for mine a year ago in Tokyo. I was assuming that most would buy in the US where I think the price is more like $ 900, within shouting distance of the ART7 from LP Gear. And anyway, the OP is interested in a new LOMC, apparently not in a high output MI. 

Post removed 
bpoletti OP
1,526 posts
 

I am not interested in moving iron / moving magnet carts.  My listening preferences are strongly in favor of LOMC carts.  My Herron VTPH-2a works GREAT with LOMC carts even though it also is outstanding with HOMC carts.  

The ART7 sounds interesting, but I have concerns about its very low output of 0.12mv.  Not sure how that would work with the Herron phono stage.  I have more gain available with the Herron VTSP-3a(r03).

lewm
12,493 posts
 

I guess I am a bad person for daring to mention the Nagaoka. I did so only because it occurred to me that the US prices are close to the same. Meantime I did introduce the ART7 to this discussion. If the output is too low, one might search for an NOS ART9.

bpoletti OP
1,526 posts
 

@lewm 

I don't consider that mention bad.  

I looked up the NOS availability of both the 7 and the 9.  Seems both are still around and at a nice price.  

I recall the discussions related to the ART7 and ART9.  I don't recall the details.  One was supposed to have better dynamics than the other.  One was supposed to provide better detail that the other.  One was supposed to be preferred for classical music, the other for jazz and rock.

Can anyone recall the distinctions?

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