Additional info:
I have learned my favorite local shop has Grado Gold, Rega Bias 2 and Ortofon Red (and Blue).
I would prefer to give them the business and to have them assist in the setup unless there's a strong reason to go with a cartridge which they do not sell. In the end it's about the sound, of course,
Also, FWIW, I tend to listen to acoustic music: classical (string quartet much more than orchestra) and jazz (combo more than big band) but I also have a lot of rock LP's from the old days which get the occasional spin. Oh, and I forgot to list my REL subwoofer with the gear.
Viridian, thanks for the tip on the Denon--I certainly don't mind spending less.
I have learned my favorite local shop has Grado Gold, Rega Bias 2 and Ortofon Red (and Blue).
I would prefer to give them the business and to have them assist in the setup unless there's a strong reason to go with a cartridge which they do not sell. In the end it's about the sound, of course,
Also, FWIW, I tend to listen to acoustic music: classical (string quartet much more than orchestra) and jazz (combo more than big band) but I also have a lot of rock LP's from the old days which get the occasional spin. Oh, and I forgot to list my REL subwoofer with the gear.
Viridian, thanks for the tip on the Denon--I certainly don't mind spending less.