Any opinions on the Audio-Technica OC9ML II?

In my opinion, it is a steal. Almost ten years ago I bought one of the original ones that retailed for almost $700... and it was a good deal then. At $300 it is an exceptional bargain.

I have used it on a Sumiko MMT and FT4, as well as the PT6 arm that come on the VPI Jr... all with wonderful results.

Dean.

For price it is unbeatable. A while back, I "upgraded" mine to a Benz Micro Glider at more than double the cost and went back to the OC9!

Thanks for the info - looks like I'm going to have to get one! Any idea as to what size spacer I would need on a Rega (P5) table?

This cartridge seems to be a perrenial favorite on VA. I'd really like to compare it to a 103r, as some have on VA, just to see what all of the fuss is about. But I have been so happy with the 103r that I figured why spend the $$$$. If I do break down and buy a new cartridge, it would probably be a ZYX. But there are other things that are in the works first.

I don't think you would need a spacer, but I'm not really sure. Why do you think you need one?

I used the OC9 on my VPI Scout for about 6 months. I think it is ok for the money but it was not really my cup of tea. It has detail but can also be a bit strident and harsh at times, not the most elegant or musical sounding cartridge. After returning home one day to find the stylus broken off (another story) I did some reasearch. I purchased the ZYX Yatra, and it is an extraordinary cartridge. An excellent match for the JMW9 arm- compliance and tonearm mass are always an issue when considering a new cartridge. It is wonderfully musical and an excellent choice for Jazz and classical music. One amazing feature is its almost total silence in the grooves of all records, even those in less than perfect shape. An important quality for me. As well as being an audiophile I am a musician with a huge collection of great records not just new audiophile pressings. So in the purchase of a new cartridge you should think about what qualities are important to you sonically and be sure that it is compatible with your tonearm.