Vinyl noob needs help with cartridge

i am trying to stay around 1k for the combo.  a little over is fine.  the zu audio w/ clearaudio nano is right at 1k.  the ifi w/ the 10x will be just slightly over.   if i am not mistaken both phonos will handle mm/mc and I like the adjustable impedance and gain options.

For a while I used the Dynavector 10x5 with a PS Audio GCPH. That combo can be had for $1k, if you buy the phono stage used, and the cartridge new.

I think MC is the way to go.  I am not an expert, but I seem to think investing in a MM setup is limiting yourself.

if you go with a setup like this, it gives you the flexibility to upgrade phono stages at some point, and stick with the MC Dynavector.

good luck!

I was a dealer for and have personally owned everything listed above except for the SoundSmith.

While I'm a HUGE Dynavector fan, (probably my favorite cartridge manufacturer), the 10X5 is okay, but not in the same league as the other carts listed.  If you could afford a higher end Dyna, like a 17D3 or above, that would be my choice.

This is strictly my opinion, but I have a massive amount of experience in the turntable/arm/cart arena. Okay, my list, (of the carts you mentioned above) would be in order:

Zu/Denon 103
Audio Technica OC9/III
Audio Technica AT33
Ortofon Bronze
Dynavector 10X5

Mofimadness

can you elaborate on the virtues of the various carts specifically the zu and audio technica?  Thanks

Zu/DL103 is just a stock low compliance Denon DL103 or selected Denon DL103R with replaced stock plastic body. It's still Denon sound. Maybe it's fine for the fans of low compliance Ortofon SPU monsters. It's strange to see Audio Technica OC9/III next to it as it's totally opposite and more detailed sounding cartridge (higher compliance).