Seeking Legit Cartridge Expert?

 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!

@tablejockey 

@bpoletti 

I keep hearing mixed opinions about the ART9XA vs the ART9XI ....

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 ...🥳

@tommypenngotti So glad to hear that!  There's a million ways to skin the cat in this hobby and you figured out your own unique way to get the sound you want.  Kudos!  In the end, your happiness is all that matters anyways.