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New Cart? Best all around performer...MM or HO

Thinking about a new cart, while putting the system through some changes. I'm looking for a good all round performer. I listen to a variety of music. Mainly Alt-Co, Rock, Acoustic, and Jazz.

Running an MMF-5 with Slee Era Gold. I would like a good warmth, but with detail (I'd imagine that about any cart would be steps above the 1012gx in there now).

I'm wanting to spend up to about 700 or so. I've seen some CA Maestro's at that range on here before. Also, thinking about some Dyna's, Virtuoso Wood, Beta Aurum S. Or, how is the goldring S stylus...it's a perfect fit, just a stylus replacement, and said to be better.

I've read the beta aurum s is good for rock and jazz. Any other input, I'd appreciate it greatly.
pablo16
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,468 posts
 
It sounds like you want a Benz cartridge. Very musical with a comforting warmth...
pablo16 OP
45 posts
 
Stringreen: what would you suggest...$700 max, will buy used, if low hours...but, with using the Era Gold, it states I can only go as low as 2.5
semi
649 posts
 
Coming from Shelter 901, I had to switch to Sumiko Blackbird to better match my integrated amp. I don't think I lost anything in terms of details, speed, dynamic, soundstage, and transparency. In fact, many areas improved. Yes, it could be because of the better match to my arm (JMW-9 Sig) and integrated (Plinius 9200).
bartinmi
30 posts
 
I switched from the stock Goldring on the Music Hall MMF-5 to a Sumiko Blue Point No. 2. I am very happy with the sound. Very balanced with detail and warmth.

For the suggestions of the Sumiko Blackbird or Blue Point Special Evo III, I was advised by Music Direct that these were too heavy to be used on the MMF-5.
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