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August 8, 2023, 08:22 AM #1
MC cartridge and SUT reccommendations
been off the grid for quite a while so haven't been active on the forum lately ...but i have been enjoying immensely the analog source i added two years ago. so much so that over time i would like to bump up my analog gear a notch or two.
to start, i have been researching a switch from my current MM to a MC cartridge and thought i would seek the advice of those here on which carts under ~$4k msrp to consider.
i would like any cart to compliment (rather than "offset") my all tube amplification ...rich/full/textured sound quality with as much detail as that will allow.
i have been looking at MC carts from hana, MSL, clearaudio and lyra but i am sure sure there re many others to consider.
...also, as my pre-amp only has a (quite nice) MM phono input i will need to pair the MC cart with a SUT and any reccommendations would be welcome.
thanks!!viking acoustics berlin r mk2 | almarro a318b + air tight atc-5 (phono) | clearaudio concept + virtuoso v2 MM | t+a dac8 dsd + diy transport + roon rock
alp-tone audio analog cables | core audio designs plyKraft 3L | hifi racks ltd podium t5-iii
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August 8, 2023, 04:06 PM #2
- Join Date
- Nov 2013
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- St. Louis, MO, USA
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- 3,073
Re: MC cartridge and SUT reccommendations
I loved the Lyra that I have heard but I feel they don't match what you say you are looking for. I found them to be extremely quick and detailed but not to the point I wasn't enjoying it.
If you like your current Clear Audio their MC are better while keeping the Clear Audio sound.
If possible check out Benz. My experience is limited with Grado but that may be an option
Much has to do with what works with your arm as well I'm not the one to help with that.Aurender ACS10 w/Audioquest Diamond USB, Esoteric N05xd
Mark Levinson #526, 534 & JBL 4367's
Clearaudio Performance DC w/Maestro cart
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August 8, 2023, 09:35 PM #3
Re: MC cartridge and SUT reccommendations
Personally, I'd be looking at a Hana MC cartridge, e.g., an Umami Red or Blue. There are some in your price range for consideration.
Regarding a SUT, there's only one as far as I am concerned, and that's a Bob's Devices SUT. I use one for my Koetsu Urushi Vermilion as it's a very low output, only 0.2mV.
Bob's Devices Inc. Step Up Transformers
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August 8, 2023, 09:48 PM #4
Re: MC cartridge and SUT reccommendations
I have used a Benz - highly recommended. The needle is gone, I’m still looking into getting it retipped, traded in etc.
I have tried Hana ML - good too, a bit polite perhaps.
Currently running a Zu Audio MC, a lot more 70s grunt.
Sadly, all cartridges sound different with different TT, phono pre, and systems. Besides the fact that different people are looking for different things.
My favorite has been the Benz Glider SL. I really need to start trying to get it fixed.Amplification : Modwright LS300 - Atma-Sphere "Class D" monoblocks
Digital : MSB Premier DAC+Digital Director, Oppo 203, Sonos Port (W4S mod)
Analog : Technics SL1200G, Boulder 508
Speakers : Daedalus Audio Muse Studio
Headphone : BHSE + Voce
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August 8, 2023, 10:35 PM #5
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August 11, 2023, 05:15 PM #6
Re: MC cartridge and SUT reccommendations
Thanks for reminding me about that. Mailed off my cartridge today for repair.
Amplification : Modwright LS300 - Atma-Sphere "Class D" monoblocks
Digital : MSB Premier DAC+Digital Director, Oppo 203, Sonos Port (W4S mod)
Analog : Technics SL1200G, Boulder 508
Speakers : Daedalus Audio Muse Studio
Headphone : BHSE + Voce
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August 12, 2023, 11:47 AM #7
Re: MC cartridge and SUT reccommendations
I'll second 'Bones' affinity for Benz-Micro, I currently utilize a Gullwing and am more than happy. I've also heard and enjoyed a 'Hot Rodded' Denon DL-103, the longest continuously produced audio component in existence I believe.
Soundsmith would also be on my short list.
Regardless, compliance matching with ones tonearm should not be overlookedCheers ! …. Dave
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August 12, 2023, 03:09 PM #8
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August 13, 2023, 04:52 PM #9
Re: MC cartridge and SUT reccommendations
Tom
Audio:
Amati Futura Mains
Amati Homage VOX Center,
Proac Response 1sc Rears,
Three MC2301's for L,C,R
MC 602 for the rears
C 1100, MX 151, MCD 1100, MR 77
Nottingham Dais with Sumiko Palo Santos Presentation
SurfacePro 3, JRiver, WW Starlight Platinum USB, Schiit Yggdrasil, Benchmark DAC3 HGC
Video:
MX 151, OppO BDP-95, JVC RS-500 DILA projector, 106" diagonal Stewart Luxus Screenwall Deluxe with Studiotek 130 G3 material.
Lake House:
Ohm F, MC 275V, C2300, MR 80, Rega P3
OnDeck:
McIntosh MAC 4300v
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August 19, 2023, 01:20 PM #10
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- Oct 2015
- Location
- FRANCE
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- 353
Re: MC cartridge and SUT reccommendations
It is depending of your taste and your system.
I prefer ZYX cartridge.
I have an Audio-Technica ART-9 too...Marantz SA7S1/GRIMM AUDIO CC1/MARK LEVINSON 360S+TECHNICS SL1210 MKII/ORTOFON X1-MC/VPI CLASSIC 3 in rosewood/Audio-Technica ART-9/ESOTERIC E03+TAG MC LAREN T32R+JEFF ROWLAND CORUS+JEFF ROWLAND MODEL 625+Magnepan 3.7i+Cables line: all Furutech lineflux+power cord DIY
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August 26, 2023, 05:30 PM #11
- Join Date
- Nov 2014
- Posts
- 227
Re: MC cartridge and SUT reccommendations
If you seek a good balance of rich / full sound with detail, these are the cartridges that come to mind:
* Benz Glider & Wood series (Wood, Reference, Zebrawood, Ebony). The Glider and older Wood / Reference series may be discontinued but you can still find them. Wonderful musical balance and timbre on these Benzes.
* Shelter Accord (discontinued) - maybe the 901 Mk 3 is a good modern equivalent, but I had to cancel my order because of very long lead time. Their top Harmony model is leaner and more about pursuit of detail IMO. The Accord was just a phenomenal music lover's cart and I hate that it's discontinued ugh.
* Ortofon Cadenza Bronze - this one sounds like it's trying NOT to be a modern high end Ortofon MC, and I love it for that. Kind of halfway to a Koetsu.
* Koetsu will give you rich full sound in spades plus detail, but at a warmer overall balance than the above carts. Still my reference for a rich, full, vivid midrange.
The Bob's Devices SUTs are superb choices for the sonic goals you list. I prefer EAR MC3 or MC4 if you can snag one, but the Sky and 1131 models are very close to this. I do not like Lundahls.
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AudioShark forum is a leading forum site for High End Audio Discussion, Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater System Discussion, Best Home Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater Installation Discussion etc.
The AudioShark forum was created for sharing the passion of high-end Audio. We have Audiophiles from all over the world participating and sharing their knowledge. From novice to experts, you will find a friendly environment for discussing about High End Audio, Stereo System, Home Theater System, Home Stereo System, Home Theater Installation, Amplifiers, Speakers, Subwoofers, Integrated System, Acoustic treatments & Digital Room Corrections and many more.
At AudioShark, we also have incorporated an exciting Marketplace where members can peruse terrific buys on used gear, as well as meet dealers and discuss the purchase of new gear.
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