I recently put an Ortofon Quintet Red on a Linn Akito and after some break-in it sounds astonishingly good, and not music genre specific one iota as befits any good cartridge (or any gear for that matter). I'm looking forward to exploring the rest of the Quintet line if I get tired of the Red...but for now it's so good it's likely gonna be around until I wear it out.
Cartridge recommendation for classical listening
I have a wonderful sounding Grado Reference Sonata cartridge which I love. The only problem is, for many years, I have had a hum problem which I have investigated extensively but never found a solution for. I know Grados can have this defect, and the extensively modified Rega P3 turntable I use can contribute to the problem
So, I’m ready to give up and go with another brand of cartridge.
I listen almost exclusively to Classical music. Can anyone suggest a cartridge under $1000 that sounds good for classical?
So, I’m ready to give up and go with another brand of cartridge.
I listen almost exclusively to Classical music. Can anyone suggest a cartridge under $1000 that sounds good for classical?
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My quest is over! Thanks everyone for your valuable input. In the end I had to let practicality dictate the answer. I decided on the Sumiko Blackbird. The store expertly installed the cartridge free of charge. Out of the box, I am happy to say that the Sumiko has made me more than contented It’s in a different league from the Grado An excellent match to my CJ, I hear details and subtleties I never heard before. No harshness. Very refined presentation. More real. And, no trace of a hum! Once again, I hear the niceties of analog sound. Again, to all, my gratitude for your input. |
I really appreciate your input. I’ve noticed that, but let me tell you that an MM cartridge must be installed without stylus, so it is impossible to damage anything. You add stylus when you cartridge body already screwed and wires already connected. Alignment of the cartridge is what you definitely have to learn and practice yourself, but it is very easy if you have a protractor like Dr. Feickert or the one you can get with Hi-Fi Test LP. Both tools are great and must have, you can find them used. Too late, but i’m pretty sure this Sumiko is not your last cartridge :)) Cartridges cannot be designed to favor classical music! The idea that any component can favor a certain genre is entirely mythological. Usually this idea is applied to speakers but it really doesn't matter- what makes a component good for one genre makes it good for another. Totally agree with Ralph's statement above. A good cartridge is good for all genres of music. Same about speakers. |
When I had a modded Rega P5, I tried the Sumiko Blackbird. Great introduction to MC, if it's your first. You definitely have to be aware at at all times, when you're near the arm. The cantilever is quite delicate. Are you using the Low or High output? That cart can really sing if your phono stage is up to the task. May be a bit hot on the upper end, depending on the downstream equipment/setup. Enjoy it. |
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