For the money you want to spend-
https://www.lpgear.com/product/ATOC9III.html
Just $50 more.
AT OC 9 series has been around forever, and a solid choice for the price. Your phono stage(in your case it's part your Mac?) plays a big part in how it performs.
The latest version will be easier to mount(body is threaded)
https://www.lpgear.com/product/ATOC9XML.html
https://www.sound-smith.com/cartridges/fixed-coil/otello
I have used both with my VPI, not the latest AT OC9.
My guess comparing the old with the new will be negligible (very subtle)at this price point/your gear.
To my ears the Soundsmith had a more convincing midrange at the expense of a less bass(still there, just not as dynamic) It can be rebuilt by SS, and last forever.
OC9 had a more overall more dynamic, but maybe tipped up higher end.
Only your ears will know. YMMV.
https://www.lpgear.com/product/ATOC9III.html
Just $50 more.
AT OC 9 series has been around forever, and a solid choice for the price. Your phono stage(in your case it's part your Mac?) plays a big part in how it performs.
The latest version will be easier to mount(body is threaded)
https://www.lpgear.com/product/ATOC9XML.html
https://www.sound-smith.com/cartridges/fixed-coil/otello
I have used both with my VPI, not the latest AT OC9.
My guess comparing the old with the new will be negligible (very subtle)at this price point/your gear.
To my ears the Soundsmith had a more convincing midrange at the expense of a less bass(still there, just not as dynamic) It can be rebuilt by SS, and last forever.
OC9 had a more overall more dynamic, but maybe tipped up higher end.
Only your ears will know. YMMV.