favorite phono cartridge

Hi Mcbuddah. The JC3+ has three settings: MC, MM, and a "hybrid" setting specifically for lower output moving iron (MI) cart's such as Grado's and Soundsmith. What this setting provides is the 47K ohm loading common to MM cart's with the gain needed by MC cart's, and it's the setting I use with my Grado S1.

1960s Decca (London) FFSS Mk IV C4E, rebuilt by John Wright, current London cartridge designer. Just a stunningly live cartridge with great dynamics.

I'm putting together my last (considering my age) record player right now, and I'm back where I started years ago, with a Decca (er, London). Not for everyone!

Sumiko Pearl...amazing.

I prefer cartridges where the cantilever sticks out in front so you can align them easier. The ones with the tiny cantilevers under the body are a pain.