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.
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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- 14 posts total
Dear @dhite71 : All these are very good alternatives for your excellent system you own, yes some over your 2K target https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisa8gdg-van-den-hul-colibri-xgp-lw-new-cartridges https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisa9gca-van-den-hul-colibri-stradivarius-xgw-koa-wood-cartridges https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisa9c0j-ortofon-cadenza-black-mc-cartridge-new-cartridges https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lis9a2i7-benz-micro-lp-s-cartridges Next cartridge by AT is way way better quality performer that what its humble price can " tells ". https://www.audio-technica.com/en-us/at-art9xa Regards and enjoy the MUSIC NOT DISTORTIONS, R. |
@tablejockey Yep, I am using the integrated's phono section. I heard the differences/improvements as I climbed the phono ladder to end up at an Audio Research REF Phono 2 prior to getting the GSi75. I also had a REF 3 and REF 150 to round out that system. I considered keeping the REF2 Phono but honestly was shocked that I didn't hear much of an improvement compared to the on-board phono. It still surprises me and I would like another listen, but that is long gone. I suspect one day I will return to separates but likely several years away. Trying out another phono would make sense as I would have that head start on the move back to separates. The REF 2 was gone by the time I got the RP10 + Apheta 3 so only heard that from the on-board phono. @rauliruegas Thanks, I have always heard nice things about those cartridges but they are a stretch. I mentioned $2k not as a budget but as the MSRP of those I was targeting. I hadn't considered the AT brand, but will take a closer look. @verdantaudio Noise issues are a nightmare...good to know and hopefully that was an isolated issue with that particular cartridge. |
"I heard the differences/improvements as I climbed the phono ladder to end up at an Audio Research REF Phono 2 prior to getting the GSi75." dhite75- My guess is your existing setup is very good as is. If you keep AT carts in your final choices, the ART 9XA is the way to go if you have 62 or higher MC gain. If not the XI @.5mv is the alternative. . AT carts to my ears have the entire sonic spectrum turned a couple notches up. If your system needs that AT definitely should be considered. I use both. Kiseki to my ears is closer to having an overall tone control at the middle detent on a classic tubed receiver from the 50/60's if that's your taste. That's mine. No bad move either way in my experience. I have all all tube(integrated) to speakers as you, just separate phono. |
The new Benz Micro’s with the MR stylus is downright killer. I have a Wood SL MR running into a Sutherland Little Loco that slays my Soundsmith Sussorro mk ll. Of course, once one jumps off the voltage gain phone stages and converts to current gain stages all the fiddling with loading/gain goes out the window and a new panorama opens up. |
- 14 posts total