@drrsutliff I have not tried arm spacers on my Rega tables. I have trusted their philosophy that as long as the cartridge body is fairly parallel and the rear is not angled down to actually make contact with the record then you are okay. Both my Eroica and Benz are taller cartridges compared to the Exact 2 yet have remained in good positions. As they state, this is a very controversial subject so there may be something to be gained that I am unaware. Pictures can be deceiving but the Ortofon design does appear rather tall to potentially create the need of an adjustment. I appreciate that insight regarding the Cadenza.
Help in deciding between these two cartridges for an upgrade
I have been very happy with my Benz Micro Wood SM. I have had it on two Rega turntables with several different amp/preamp/phono combinations. They were all Audio Research tube components. I now have the Audio Research GSi75 which has two gain settings: 45db & 63db. I use it on the high setting now with 0.8mV from the Benz.
I have had my eye on two well reviewed cartridges that are both about 0.4mV
Ortofon Cadenza Bronze
Kiseki Blue NS
There isn't anything specific I am trying to achieve, simply have the upgrade itch. Now with a Rega RP10, an integrated amp and my Wilson Sophias there isn't a lot to change other than the cartridge. My previous cartridge was an Eroica LX that had the Sapphire retip service from SoundSmith. The move to the Benz was dramatic. I would want the next move to be as or more dramatic for the investment. Both of these seem to be at the peak of 'bang for your buck' in the $2000 bracket.
I listen to mostly classic rock, jazz, folk/singer-songwriter, pop, blues and R&B.
Thanks for your thoughts!Dana
I have had my eye on two well reviewed cartridges that are both about 0.4mV
Ortofon Cadenza Bronze
Kiseki Blue NS
There isn't anything specific I am trying to achieve, simply have the upgrade itch. Now with a Rega RP10, an integrated amp and my Wilson Sophias there isn't a lot to change other than the cartridge. My previous cartridge was an Eroica LX that had the Sapphire retip service from SoundSmith. The move to the Benz was dramatic. I would want the next move to be as or more dramatic for the investment. Both of these seem to be at the peak of 'bang for your buck' in the $2000 bracket.
I listen to mostly classic rock, jazz, folk/singer-songwriter, pop, blues and R&B.
Thanks for your thoughts!Dana
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I am presently using a Kiseki Blue. Great cartridge, but depending on what type of "sound" you like there may be others at a more sane price-less than the current $ 2100 retail price. I found a used one for a realistic price. If your thinking about that Blue listed for $1300, that's IMO a fair price. https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisa6acc-kiseki-blue-n-s-brand-new-cartridges To my ears it is on the price/performance level of the Audio Technica ART9 for $1.2K. Comparing the 2-ART9 is more AT detailed, in your face. Kiseki Blue presents a warmer, refined sound. I would also consider the Soundsmith model in your budget. The plus is you will be able to send it back for rebuild. Why not consider the Apheta? A lot less audiophool worry. Just mount the cart and GO! |
@tablejockey I am glad you mention the Apheta! I forgot I actually got a very low hour Apheta 3 with my RP 10. I already had the Benz for several months and was used to that sound and tried the Apheta. It was very bright to me and I didn’t care for it so sold it while it was still at its peak value to help offset the upgrade of the RP 10. From your experience this would push me towards the Kiseki. |
dhite71- If you do have the P10, I would ensure playing ANY cartridge is being presented in its best light-phonostage at the MAX of your audio budget. After that, If I were in the Rega camp, ALL in with the Aphelion. Yeah, $5K but if you’re commited to Rega(P10) that just what you do! I’m wondering if a different(tubeor SS, im a tube fan)phonostage would have gave you a different perspective on the first experience with the Apheta. Or perhaps it wasn’t the latest iteration? We audiophools have too much choice! Good luck. Late edit: I took a peek at your setup. Nice simple layout and solid gear. I'm assuming you're using the onboard phono section, so perhaps other with experience will chime in on just how much more a stand alone phono stage will bring out of your final choice. |
I had noise issues with a Cadenza Blue on a Rega table. There was a hum that is not present on my current AVM table and wasn't present on my Art Audio table so it is definitely not the phono stage of cartridge. Just thought I would mention this issue. Not sure if it was a systemic issue or just something with my table and cartridge but thought I would mention it. |
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