Which wood Grado

last_lemming: I too have an SL1200GR and Thiel 2.4s and I have a Grado Sonata that sounds pretty good through the rig (Manley amplification). I also have an Ortofon Black that is priced similarly and I think it is a superior cartridge compared to the Sonata. The Black has a shibata stylus and retrieves far more high frequencies than does the Sonata. The mat I use is Herbie’s Way Excellent - 4 mm http://herbiesaudiolab.net/ttmat.htm

Sounds like the sonata is the one you are looking for.  Comes in high and low output.  I like the low output with a sut.  The sonata has real meat on it bones.  The mid range is top tier.  Maybe the best in the business.  On the whole a very musical enjoyable cart.

Enjoy the ride
Tom

Stevecham,

how do those two carts you mention compare in the midrange and mid bass. The acoustics in my room are such that I lose a bit of that range.   Unfortunately my wife doesn't care, so no acoustic fixes. 

I had a Sonata.  That's why I now use a Lyra Clavis DC (rebuilt by Soundsmith) and keep an AT OC9/II as a spare.  Never Grado again.  Never.  Will sell my vinyl collection before I stoop down that low.  

But that's only my studied and experienced opinion.  Your naive opinion may differ.  

Never Grado again. Never.

maybe you have just been unlucky with this brand, for compatibility between tonearm / cartridge / phono and I also add cable.