@normb I've been considering exact same two cartridges for upgrade, after much research seems the Audio Technica ART-9xa and Lyra Delos are two more of the favorites around this price level. These have become my top two contenders at this point.
Zephyr MIMC vs Hana ML
Mounting on a Shure DME 3009 S2 improved with a Thorens TD125 Mk2.
presently using Ortofon 2M black through Musical surroundings Nova III phono stage and linear power supply. This was s major step up from the Grace F7 ruby that came with the TT/TA.
considering a step up and for various reasons I’m leaning towards one of those two cartridges.
Tonearm effective mass, compliance, resonance all check out.
Anyone with enough experience with either/both cartridges to offer sn informed opinion? I’m all ears.
thanks.
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@sns Yes the ART-9xa is that good. I have my Hana SL off my turntable and my Umami on deck but I can't seem to let go of the ART which is the keeper for now. |
Funny, I’d started out thinking about saving a few more dollars and looking for a Umami Red. a brief online search is steering me in that direction. No hurry. US made is a factor but most of my system isn’t.
the response to my question has been overwhelming, reassuring is some of the similarities in responses. my birthday is next month, i start social security in February, VA-disabled at 90% - kinda looking for an upscale upgrade to my system, like one and done, so long as my hearing holds out. like the chalice selection scene in Indians Jones’ Last crusade, I hope to choose wisely for a lifetime. Audio-Technica, hmm? |
@normb Not sure I'm understanding you correctly, but Umani is nearly $4k, AT $1.3K. AT is the great deal out of all cartridges mentioned here, and simply great deal in comparison with all cartridges based on my research. |
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