Best MM?

I've been an IQ3 user for several years - really fabulous MM cartridge. Tracks impeccably, full range balanced frequency range, dynamic & lively but also smooth and non-fatiguing. Deep soundstage with pin-sharp imaging. I got this as a 'damaged stylus' IQ2 for $60 & added the IQ3 stylus (& easily repaired the 2).

Goldring 1000 series styli also fit IQs & I use the 1042 a lot - the Gyger2 sounds pretty similar to the full IQ3.

Also use a Roksan Corus Black, again sometimes with a 1042 stylus. Definite family resemblance to the IQs & another excellent MM. 

I find the Ortofon 2M Black to be much more demanding of hyper-accurate alignment to get the best out of it. It's superb on my SL1200G, fast, dynamic and silky smooth but edgy  on all the other TTs I have tried for some reason (Linn, Clearaudio, Rega). I am very careful with setup, alignment & especially azimuth.

Finally, another excellent MM is the AT150ANV which I purchased new when launched but either rare or pricey now. Similar to the 2M Black but slightly 'leaner' sounding. 

Maestro 2 is really good, I traded up to the Charisma V2, even better, outstanding actually. Very happy with it, will definitely keep it for as long as it lasts. 

Since I can't just go out and buy a 2M Black, I had to satisfy my curiosity the best way I could, and here is a comparison between the cartridge I'm using and also my favorite.

Presently, no matter how many people claimed the 2M Black was better, it wouldn't matter; that's because way back when, I chose the favored cartridge on this forum, and discovered it was definitely not for me.

BTW, I have the Grado Master 2.


http://audiokarma.org/forums/index.php?threads/grado-statement-master-1-vs-ortofon-2m-black.698335/

Does the Charisma V2 have a replaceable stylus?

I've been saying it. Goldring 1042 is the best value, in addition to some vintage perhaps, it is under $400 from the UK. Save your funds for a real good phono and tonearm cable.