2. analog
  3. 1394210787

Best cartridge to reduce hum under $400 USD

I am currently running a Grado platinum reference on a stock Thorens TD150 mkII and Grado phono preamp. I like the the music it produces, but on my new Arcam - Monitor Audio - B&W based system I am noticing the hum a lot more. The hum increases as the cartridges swings towards the center of the platter, so I am assuming the unshielded cartridge is to blame.

With the b&w sub I am also now noticing more rumble, which may also indicate the cartridge is the wrong compliance? If I recall correctly, the tone arm is medium weight, something like 13 grams.

The phono stage has high and low level settings, but not sure it can effectively handle low very output MC.

Any suggestions?

kn
Ag insider logo xs@2xknownothing
Post removed 
Ag insider logo xs@2x
knownothing OP
1,579 posts
 
Thanks Viridian.
Ag insider logo xs@2x
knownothing OP
1,579 posts
 
Hello, Hum was significantly reduced by addition of Shunyata Venom Defender to AC line. Low frequency resonance still an issue on imperfect disks. Would like folks thoughts on these three low to medium compliance cartridges for the TD150mk2:

Zu/DL-103
Audiotechnica AT150MLX
Ortofon MC-3 Turbo

Thanks, kn
Ag insider logo xs@2x
knownothing OP
1,579 posts
 
Update.  Tried Shelter 201 cartridge.  Improvement over Grado Platinum in terms rumble and a decent sounding cartridge but as soon as I tried with 45rpm recording it’s shortcomings in terms of arm match were laid bare.  Subwoofer went wild to point I was worried it might be damaged.

Replaced Shelter 201 with Audio Technica AT150Sa (which has replaced the AT150MLX in their product line).  Rumble problem fixed.  Not as romantic in the mids as the Grado out of the box, but not sterile either with what sounds like ruler flat frequency response, fast and detailed with very good bass and exceptional tracking.  I actually think this AT cartridge might be a giant bargain.

Thanks again all for the suggestions.
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,769 posts
 
Good info, knownothing!
BTW the MC3 Turbo is a good all-round high output cartridge. The only failing being slight loss of dynamics at low volume.
More to discover