Madavid: Why is this discussion that you promote so focused on the dollar amounts of things? A system is a combination of many independent variables; the number of possible systems and component combinations and room set ups and human ears is an astronomically large number. It’s the "no matter what I do" sentiment you express that is problematic. And you certainly don’t need $200K of equipment to have lasting enjoyment from a well designed system.
Your $1K turntable might, or might not, benefit from a $2K cartridge, depending on several factors and independent variables. The point is to try and make educated decisions, listen to a variety of table-arm-cartridge combinations (not always easy to do), read reviews both from owners and the pros. I don't know why you chose the MoFI rig. I conclude it must have been what you wanted at that moment, in that place.
What exactly are you trying to achieve in the analog realm? I’m not sure you have been able to determine that yet.
I run a preowned Technics SL1200mkll that I paid $300 for and that I restored with a NOS arm and new lights outfitted with a vintage Shure V15 type IV that I paid $200 for with an after market replacement microridge stylus through tube pre and power amps into full range speakers. I have a few other new and vintage cartridges, none that I paid more than $600 for, and they sound very satisfying to my ears. It’s not always about how much one has to spend to achieve high performance, but sometimes it is, and sometimes one can assemble a reasonably priced system that reveals all the detail one could ever want and kick butt at the same time. To me, it’s a journey, not a destination. There are no absolutes. This interest in music reproduction is not a scam. The manufacturers I own components from, I believe, truly care about the quality of the components they make and have a passion for the science and art of good design and execution because they truly like music and the means to play recorded music. Sure they want to make a profit; sure I want them to be profitable so that they perpetuate the industry we all support. Some even aim to make these devices at price points that are affordable and are of high quality. These particular facets of value and performance for a given price point are not a scam in any way, shape or form.
Megabuck tables, arms and cartridges can and do sound absolutely amazing, they're just not for me. I applaud those who can afford and enjoy such rigs. Michael Fremer is one. I learn from him and feel he is an asset to analog fans.
I know nothing about MoFi tables and cartridges, but assume the rigs you bought must have sounded good enough to your ears to be what you wanted. I wouldn’t pursue a $2K cartridge, it’s not my thing. If I were you I would stop obsessing about that $2K cartridge and explore the fun and fascinating world of sub $1K carts, both vintage and new.
