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Dynavector 10X5, 2M Black, Grado Platinum or....?

I'm looking for a cartridge recommendation for my Pro-ject 1 Xpression III turntable (Carbon 8.6 tonearm) either MM or MC. A friend works for a distributor of Ortofon and Grado so I could get a discount on these, but ultimatley I want the best cart for my tonearm. I listen to hard rock, blues and jazz, I need good bass, warm detailed mids, detailed highs and a good sound stage. I just purchased the optional counterweight so my options are plentiful. My front runners are;

Ortofon 2M Black
Dynavector 10x5
Grado Gold
Grado Platinum

I would very much appreciate feedback on these or any other cart in the $150 to $500 price range that would work well with my table. Thanks.
bluepearl
stevtt
4 posts
 
I have a Grado Statement Sonata on my Expression III. I think it is a very good match. I mainly listen to Rock.
solidstate9
17 posts
 
I have a Musichall MM5 (Project OEM); I have heard the Grado's may hum with your rig. Obviously not with Stevtt's, but I am also looking to upgrade my rig So I am going through the same process.
Ortofon is often paired with Project and Dynavector seems to be highly recommended.
I checked out Clearaudio they sound good with Project too.
sabocat59
98 posts
 
I like the 2m black. I've had one on my scout for a year now and couldn't be happier.

Great soundstage, killer bass, a lot of detail in midrange and silky highs.

Very dynamic cart.
vinyladdict
164 posts
 
If you've got enough $$$ for the 2M Black, get a Dynvector 20XL instead and you'll never look back. I like the Black, but I LOVE the 20XL. My musical tastes are identical to yours - 90% hard rock and jazz.
cuccarese
6 posts
 
I am using a Dynavector 10X4 MkII which is nearly the same as the 10X5. I'm running a Sota Saphire (vacuum platter) with the ubiquitus Rega RB300 arm. For the type of music you're listening to I would highly recommend either the 10X5 or as suggested by Vinyladdict, the 20XL. I believe the 20XL is a low output cart that will require a good MC head amp but there is also a 20XH version that has an output high enough to interface to a MM front end. You'll love the solid bottom end and strong mids for vocals. Both the 20XL and the 10X5 have great channel separation and create a realistic (as possible with rock and blues) sound stage. You won't go wrong with either.
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