ASR Basis Exclusive and WHICH MC cartridge??

I am using the same Kuzma Stabi Reference table but with Triplanar VII arm. I think this combination is pretty neutral, and I have a friend who used to have the ASR Basis Exclusive, which I have had substantial listening sessions with.

Your total combo is still pretty neutral and so now U have a chance to determine the tonality of yr system with a choice of cartridge.

Last week, I was still using the Jade Platinum and it had the usual midrange magic that Koetsu is well-known for, and still has the extension on both ends to make one satisfied

Now I am using the Blue Lace Plat. with diamond cantilever, which retains the same midrange magic but with even better extension and (surprise, surprise) speed than the Jade. But the Jade is a shade lusher

FWIW, I think you can experiment with a cartridge which is less than neutral if you are looking in that direction

Cheers ... Peter

Schorly,

Great components and system. I had the ASR Basis Exclusive for 3 years, and was very happy with it.

In terms of pricing, are you only interested in new cartridges, or is used OK?

In terms of my experience, the Shelter 90x was a great pairing, as was the Zyx Universe (although this may be a bit out of your price range unless used). I would not recommend the Urushi (black) - too rich a sound. The best combo I found (in the context of my system) was the Ortofon A90, although I suspect the Dynavector XV-1 would be a solid pairing as well.

Best of luck.

You guys do realize that this thread is 10 years old.
Most likely the OP, if he is still among us, has moved on to some other system by now. The Kuzma Reference and the ASR were very de rigeur in 2005 and are still great pieces, but such is audio fashion.