Seeking Legit Cartridge Expert?


Anyone out there have a reputable guy who knows the nuances of carts in the $2000+ range? So many opinions.....

current set up 

VPI Super Prime Scot / 10.5 arm

Hana ML

Harbeth 40.3XD 

What's going to drastically improve my sound / detail....mostly listen to Hard Rock, Zeppelin etc....

 

Thanks! 

128x128tommypenngotti

AT ART-9XA is a good upgrade.  Second choice is AT OC9XML is possibly the best buy cartridge that performs WAY above its $600 price tag.  

 AT ART9 has fans nearly 10 years 

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/audio-technica-at-art9-phono-cartridge?highlight=Art9

IMO a cart that will give you a taste of what the super carts do for "cheap" limited to whatever the setup is.

By most accounts, your Hana is competent,  and the ears simply don't agree.

I'd go XA, get it dialed in and ROCK OUT!

 

As others have mentioned, the Soundsmith Paua Mk II is an excellent cart.  It’s detailed and neutral but not boring or bright at all.  I’ve had mine for about a year and it’s a keeper.  New models are quite expensive but used one can be had for under $2k.

Harbeths are fantastic speakers but if someone who was listening to a lot of hard rock asked for a speaker recommendation I would not suggest Harbeth.  They seem to thrive more in the vocals, jazz, folk realm and can sound a little muddy when too much Whole Lotta Love is thrown at them.  Just my experience for whatever that’s worth. 

@paulietunes 

"Harbeths are fantastic speakers but if someone who was listening to a lot of hard rock asked for a speaker recommendation I would not suggest Harbeth. "

I get this all the time , I have an unusual set up . I also have (2) Emminence tour grade dual 18's w BSS crossover in the chain, it rocks , trust me ...and the clarity is unreal with he 40.3's ...🥳