Nolitan, I'd used a Grado Sonata Reference, Garrott Optim FGS, and Goldring 1042 in my VPI Scout (since departed and replaced.) All of them had great merit and preference would depend on partnered equipment. I did have problems with the "Grado Dance" on some classical records, never on jazz or rock lp's though. To my ears, the VPI Scout has a rather warm and forgiving sonic nature and the Grado is more of the same. If you have other components that could use a little tonal counterbalancing, the Grado could be your ticket. I found the Garrott to be more my cup of tea. While the Optim FGS lists for $1K, I'd sure look at another highly rated Garrott, the P77i @ $499. You can order it from Decibelhifi in Australia. The Garrott has a more even handed tonal signature compared to the Grado, a bit more detail in the upper frequencies. Not quite as luscious a midrange, but still lovely. Paul Szabady has an online review that will give you a good account of the Garrott sound. The Goldring is a great rock 'n roll cratridge. It's bit brash and untamed with delicate classical music, but on popular music, it's great fun. It's posessed with much rhythmic drive and elan. Another cartridge that I'd not overlook is the Ortofon 2M range. You can order the 2M black from Germany on Ebay for your stated price range. Don't take anyone else's word as gospel though. We all have different systems and ears, there's no universal "best" at any given price point.
