2. analog
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Cartridge Advice Sought

I re-entered the vinyl fold about 3 months ago and have been really enjoying it. Currently, my analog rig comprises a Pro-Ject RPM 5 table and 9c carbon fibre tonearm mounted with a Clearaudio Aurum Classics Wood MM cartridge, with signal being sent to a Channel Islands Audio VPP-1 phono stage and VAC-1 power supply. For the money, I think the Aurum is a fine entry-level product, but I've been thinking about the next step and the weak point in the set-up is probably the cartridge. Budget is $400 to $700.

Some of the carts that have caught my eye are: another Clearaudio in their MM range (Beta S, Virtuoso, Maestro), Benz Micro Ace, Denon 103R, Ortofon Rondo (Blue, Red, Bronze), Dynavector (20X, 19A, 17D2), Nagaoka MP-50. Any advice or suggestions would be most welcome. I listen mainly to various types of jazz, with some rock and classical thrown in for good measure.

Thanks.

Max
mghcanuck
mghcanuck OP
116 posts
 
Hi Marty,

Thanks for your post. Could you elaborate on why you feel the ProJect gear is the weak point? I'd also be interested in any suggestions of table/arm combos.

Thanks.

Max
Post removed 
stefanl
296 posts
 
There is new review of this turntable http://www.6moons.com/audioreviews/project3/combo.html They recommend an Ortofon Rondo Red.This is what the reviewer used to extensively investigate the RPM 5.This could be your next move.
mghcanuck OP
116 posts
 
Marty,
Thanks for the advice, good food for thought. I've done a bit of research on other 'tables and some that I've drooled over are models in the lower half of the range of brands like Acoustic Signature and Clearaudio.

Stefan, thanks for your input.

Regards,

Max
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