Sumiko Songbird (High Output)/Music Hall MMF-5

One more vote against HOMCs, as compared to similarly priced LOMCs, MM, and MI. I stopped using them long ago; they just don't cut the mustard compared to good cartridges of other types, in my opinion, in my system.  I owned and listened to Transfiguration Esprit, Benz Glider X2, and earlier a Sumiko something or other (Blackbird?), which is not worth even considering. Whereas for example I am a big fan of Transfiguration LOMCs.

Replace the stylus. 

Personally, I would, and have put a cartridge of equal value of the turntable on my system before to good effect. But I would also consider @mijostyn ’s comments about high output MC cartridges. 

Replacing the stylus is good advice.

I very much enjoyed the one HOMC cart I have tried, a Denon DL-110.

I would heartily recommend this cart, and it seems to be well reviewed, though I understand the general reticence about HOMC, which is challenging to implement.

I since acquired a step up transformer so I could run a LOMC AT-33sa, which I like even more. 

Currently own and using the Songbird. Love it and so has every other person that has listened to vinyl at my house. Not looking to cause controversy, but curious if any of the above dislikes for HOMC own and listened to the Songbird vs giving you advice from their experience with other carts and stereotyping all HOMC products into that experience. 
 

I’d give a big thumbs up to try it! Replacing your stylus obviously is an option as well, so I’m just vouching that the relatively new Songbird is excellent.