If your phono stage can handle low output moving coil cartridges a Denon DL 310 MK II can be had from a trusted seller 2Juki for $330. If higher output is needed then the Denon DL110 is in the low 200's. Output voltage is higher, but not as high as a typical moving magnet. You MIGHT have to add a bit of volume from where your typical volume setting was for the Sumiko cartridge, but it will work. These are the two most affordable moving coil cartridges I am aware of. Otherwise you are looking at moving magnets, typically the Audio Technica AT95 family, or the 540ml which costs in the mid to high $200's.
Cartridge - sweet spot on the cost/sound curve?
I think my Sumiko Blue point 2 is going. Right channel is lower sound level than right using my turntable, totally even using digital. Table is Project RPM 5 carbon that I bought as a store demo with the blue point 2 so no telling how many hrs on it.
The rest of the system is a PS audio GCPH phono pre, deHaviland Ultraverve 3, McCormack DNA 1, Martin Logan SL3s with new panels.
I loved the warmth and focus of the blue point but am a bit back by how much they cost $500. Don’t laugh I know carts can cost thousands but I got a kid in college!
Any recommendations for something at or under that price point that is better?
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@elliottbnewcombjr In the sub $500 new cartridge market I am interested in knowing what options there are for boron or other hybrid cantilevers. For awhile there was carbon fiber but that was more of a cheap as chips option for Audio Technica. |
Boron is not common at this price point, even used. Audio Technica makes one that’s (sort of) close - OC9XML, $600 new. There should be various used AT’s with boron out there. You can sometimes find a used Benz Ace or Glider at this price (boron, with either Fritz Gyger or Japanese MicroRidge stylus). A brand new Ace used to cost $550 (circa 2000s) but those days are gone and these models are no longer common. That said - aluminum cantilevers can sound very, very good. Sometimes even preferable to boron, depending on the cartridge! |
Everyone has their preferences. As mulveling points out aluminum cantilevers can sound very good. Personally, I tend to prefer them over other exotics such as boron or beryllium. This is a personal taste thing, there is no right or wrong, just a matter of taste. In your price range in addition to Audio Technica, excellent BTW, consider Ortofon, perhaps a 2M Bronze. This assumes you determine that you do need a new cartridge after following Elliott's suggestions. |
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