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Second Cartridge With Transfiguration Phoenix

I use Phoenix with Graham Phantom tonearm over Acoustic Solid Royal TT (ARC Ref 2 SE phono stage). I really like what I hear bur decided to get a second cartridge with a second tonearm (will be Graham Phantom II Supreme) on the second tonearm plate with my TT. I am currently considering from a list of Shelter Harmony, Koetsu Onyx or Azule Platinum, Airtight PC-1 Supreme, Ortofon PW. My listening preferences are neutral, organic sound with a deep and wide soundstage, I do not prefer a specific bandwith dominating the test, I like details without sacrificing musicality as one can get why I like Phoenix. Of course one may either find a cartridge having similar sonic clothing with Phoenix while improving its virtues or alternatively can try to find a very different sound as complementing a neutral sounding cartridge like Phoenix, which I am not decided what to do. I will appreciate from current users or ones who have experience with those cartridges and if they were able to listen to some of them with the same setup. Thanks for your help.
number95
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
Number95, glad you've formulated a plan, which seems sensible and should teach you a lot about whichever cartridges you try.

One caution: Raul's first post correctly mentioned that the Graham might not be the optimal tonearm for lower compliance cartridges. IME that is true and (speaking generally) Koetsu's have the lowest compliance of the cartridges you're considering. They may not perform at their best on a Graham.

I'm not suggesting you change your plan. A stone body's higher mass will help them play better than a wood body. Just be aware that what you hear depends on the arm as well as the cartridge..

Enjoy!
Ag insider logo xs@2x
rauliruegas
13,066 posts
 
Dear Number95: ++++ " I will order second Graham with IC-70 phono cable to compare all of the cartridges equally. " +++++

just an additional thought: what if for example you test the Transparent MM2 and outperforms ( with the same cartridge ) the IC 70? is it not a better alternative and in some ways what you are looking for when asked about?
Yes, if that happen you need to invest not in one IC but two IC cables and this means a higher investment.

Regards and enjoy the music,
R.
number95 OP
44 posts
 
Hi Raul, your logic is undeniable, will get a phono cable from Transparent to test. Many thanks.
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
Raul, higher investments don't seem to be a problem for Number95! ;-)
number95 OP
44 posts
 
Raul, higher investments don't seem to be a problem for Number95! ;-)

Well yes and no. Yes I can afford buying a second tonearm, two more cartridges as well as a more expensive phono cable. But, I want to be sure I am not wasting my hard earned cash for nothing or garbage. As you can realize, I have not bought any cartridges since 2008 (Orpheus) and currently use Phoenix (bought in 2007), so I am not kind of a guy who continiously swapping gear for sake of change.

I plan to keep the new cartridge(s) as a long term investment. Hope this does not be a famous last words story ;-)
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