Thanks yogiboy for the info!
Grado Sonata Cartridge vs. Rega Ania
I recently listened to a friend’s new Rega P6 turntable/cartridge setup with the Rega Ania MC cartridge.
I was blown away by it’s definition compared to my setup. I use the Grado Sonata cartridge with a significantly modified RP3 Rega turntable, now roughly comparable to the P6.
Has anyone had any experience with the Ania cartridge? I’m seriously considering changing from my Grado MM to it after hearing my friends set. It’s output is 3.5 uV, compared to my 5.0 uV. I’m wondering if that’s too significant a drop in output.
I love the Grado, but I just don’t think it has the definition of the Rega.
Or, can someone suggest another excellent cartridge in the $800 price range?
I was blown away by it’s definition compared to my setup. I use the Grado Sonata cartridge with a significantly modified RP3 Rega turntable, now roughly comparable to the P6.
Has anyone had any experience with the Ania cartridge? I’m seriously considering changing from my Grado MM to it after hearing my friends set. It’s output is 3.5 uV, compared to my 5.0 uV. I’m wondering if that’s too significant a drop in output.
I love the Grado, but I just don’t think it has the definition of the Rega.
Or, can someone suggest another excellent cartridge in the $800 price range?
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- 23 posts total
You might look into a high output MC cartridge that you will not need a SUT! Here is one that might do the trick. You can return it if you prefer the Grado! https://www.needledoctor.com/Dynavector-10X5-Cartridge |
Can anyone suggest an alternate cartridge to the Sonata that is more detailed, yet good for classical? It can be a MC with transformer or any other type of cartridge in the $600-$800 range. In this price range you can look for brand new Garrott cartridges. Something like P77i Vintage MM/MI cartridges are better, i would strongly recommend Victor X1IIe, Pioneer PC-1000 mkII, Joseph Grado Signature XTZ. For a bit more the Grace F-14 or LEVEL II are giant killers! |
I have a Grado Sonata and a few other MM and MI cartridges; two that I have that I prefer over the Sonata, for the sonic characteristics it seems you seek, are a Nagaoka MP200 and an Ortofon Black. The Nagaoka is very, very smooth and easy on the ear, but with plenty of bandwidth, and I like it for rock, classical and light jazz. The Black is an extremely detailed cartridge and is great for massed strings and complex passages. Some find it overly clinical but it certainly gets out what’s in the groove. I’ve been trying to settle on an overall performer but my current preference goes to the Nagaoka, truly an unsung brand among current cartridge manufacturers. |
- 23 posts total