Best of the Gliders, or?

In addition to what was previously written, so others can perhaps give a better recommendation-suggestion for a Cartridge, is that my original HO Glider is being used on an upgraded VPI HW-19 Jr, with MK-IV Platter, AQ PT-7 Arm (AQ Emerald Cable) Expressimo Counterweight, VPI SDS.

I might be able to spring the additional funds for the L2, M2, or H2 model on trade-in (I believe this would be about $800 plus my Glider) Thanks, Mark

The low output version is more transparent. The wood body cartridges are better (smoother, even more transparent) if you budget allows.

I have listened to both the Glider M2 and the M2 in my system. I'm pretty stingy with funds, but thought the M2 was far more enjoyable in my system. It just had a more easy-going, evenly balanced flow to it with a sweeter and more full-bodied midrange, crisper (and less "glassy") top end and warmer bottom. You could, however, tell that both cartridges come from the same family. My system is different from yours - I'm running a Michell Gyro SE Mk II and Graham 1.5tc (IC30 cable) tonearm and the very basic Musical Fidelity XLP phono stage. So the results may be different in your system.

WRT output...that would depend on your phono stage more than anything, and I'm not familiar with yours. If it has sufficient gain and stays quiet enough, everything I've read suggests to take the low output versions of the Benz cartridges when possible. I actually have the L2 on the way and just have the M2 as a dealer loan until the L2 arrives.

I truly do thank you folks for the comments so far, and you have all "reconfirmed" my thoughts, that low output would be the way to go with Benz.

Being here for a couple of years now, I've read literal 1000's of posts, and I thank the A-Gon folks very much for providing an archives, in which one can search a specific topic-subject-product.

Of course I was a neophyte when starting into the "MC" world when I purchased the Glider, relying on reviews, and what others had said.

My impressions are that the HO Glider, being known as a "Moving Iron" Cartridge is perhaps not what many consider to be a true in the sense MC Cartridge.

This Cartridge has been a fun (And enjoyable) ride the last 10 years, and I would naturally like to continue this enjoyment. Every time a tweak was employed to the Turntable, or new Phono Stage, or acquisition of SDS, etc, the old Glider got better, and better.

I imagine in this price range, so much more has come along in the last 10 years. There is many directions I could go should I choose.

Should I decide again to go with a Benz product, are there any recommendations who I should do business with? I was thinking the Needle Doctor? Any better choices?

Most likely at this point I am seriously considering the Wood Body L2, a step up from the Glider.

I would think my Sutherland PhD should be able to provide a good Phono Stage for whatever my funds can cough up for a cartridge.

I reckon I can always charge, and make a few payments (99 payments, and she'll be mine! lol) Of course a Lyra Titan is out of the question! hee hee Mark

When I upgraded to the Benz Ebony, it was a jaw dropping difference. Squeeze out as much as you can and get the highest performing cartridge you can possibly get. You will enjoy the upgrade for many years.