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What replacement cartridge for BSR Quanta 400?

I am eagerly awaiting delivery of my Supratek Chenin preamp, and am looking to tune up my old BSR Quanta 400 turntable while I wait. I eventually plan to get a VPI TT, but until then, the BSR will have to do. It's in great shape, since I've been out of vinyl since the mid-80s (I know, shame on me!), and it's been in storage, but I think I'll replace the drive belt, and upgrade the stock cartridge (the one it had when I bought it way back in the late 70's). I can't wait to hear vinyl sounds coming from my Zu Druids. I would appreciate any suggestions regarding an appropriate replacement cartridge. I'm looking for something that's very good, but not out of line for the quality of the BSR. Thanks in advance.
ait
slipknot1
1,423 posts
 
Ait-
Whatever you choose, keep an eye on the output voltage. the Chenin has a very flexible gain structure, but I would stay away from high output carts. Anything at 2.5 mV or up will overload the phono stage and result in a disappointing experience. I would avoid MM's altogether as Mick voices the phono stage for MC. It can drive even the lowest output MCs, but seems to function best in the .25 - .8mV range. If you are looking for a temporary solution, look for a used Dynavector 20X (low or high output). It's considered to be a "medium" compliance cart, and even the high output version is within the tolerance of the gain settings on the Chenin. IMHO an MM, any MM, with the Chenin would be a mistake.
ait OP
480 posts
 
Well now I'm totally confused. I've heard that MM is preferable for the BSR, but MC is needed for the Chenin. I guess I will keep looking at MC's - what I gather is that I need one with medium to high compliance, and output in the .25 - .8mV range.
ait OP
480 posts
 
OK, what about the Grado Statement Platinum? It is an MI type, not MC, but the output is 0.5mV (right in the Chenin's optimum range), it is fairly high compliance (20 CU), it is affordable ($300), it has an elliptical stylus, and it has gotten very good reviews. Sounds like a good fit considering I really don't want to buy a megabuck MC cartridge for this turntable.
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ait OP
480 posts
 
OK. Based on the fact that it seems like the best bang-for-the-buck at $259.00, it is a true MC design, it has the correct compliance and an elliptical stylus, and the few reviews I've found have been good, I'm going with the Denon 301 MK 2 cartridge. Thanks to all who have helped me here, I've really learned a lot in the last 2 days!
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