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Phono stage and Cartridge for Technics 1210 GR

I am about to purchase a Turntable and am leaning towards Technics 1210 GR was looking at 1200G but then realized cost of good cartridge and phono.  This is all new to me since I have been mainly streaming and listening to some CD/DAT.

I would like to spend no more than $1500 for for the phono stage and cartridge.  Anything else i will need that I am not thinking about?

I am currently using a  Linear Tube Audio ZOTL Ultralinear Integrated Amplifier I did not get phono stage when purchased.  I asked about adding cost would be $1250 level 1 or $1900 level 2.  I have been researching on the forum and it seems most recommend a separate phono stage.

Here is link to my system.
dukeassassin's System - Virtual Systems (audiogon.com)

Thanks for your time in advance.
dukeassassin
dukeassassin OP
10 posts
 
Thanks elliottbnewcombjr for all this information.  I was thinking I was going with MM cartridge as mainly listen to classic rock.  Great advice about getting versatile phono stage for both MM and MC and return option.  Time to do some more homework...
aberyclark
1,410 posts
 
I have the ELAC PPA-2 ($999) hooked to my GR and could not be happier. Michael Fremer gave the ELAC a favorable review. Currently, I am using a KAB 40th anniversary Ortofon Concorde with the OM 40 stylus. Basically, the combo makes it a Concorde version of the 2m Black. Great cartridge. I also highly recommend the AT VM540ML which I also have. Performs much better than the price. Good luck
elliottbnewcombjr
5,799 posts
 
aberyclark

I have the earlier AT440ml. I thought the 540 was it's direct successor,

however, based on my listening, and imaging comparisons related to channel separation and balance, I decided, in OP's budget, to recommend the VM750SH instead.

my 440ml is sep 30 db; bal .75 db
VM540ml  is sep 28 d; bal 1.0 db

VM750SH is sep 30db (ml version 28 db)

My Shure, AT440, and AT33/PTG/II all are musically involving, but both AT's tighter center, and more distinctly positioned players, i.e. bass player here, trumpet there, on superior recordings is more apparent (not necessarily full width, individual distinction) 
fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,640 posts
 
Starting out try a Parks Puffin. It will match any and all carts.
rsf507
2,400 posts
 
For a VERY versatile phono stage look into the Gold Note PH10 about 1600 but can be had for less than 1300. Sonically just wondering read all the reviews online but as important it's a MM or MC with lots of settings possible for different cartridges.
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