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Cartridge help: Ortofon Cadenza vs. Soundsmith Paua

I recently ordered a VPI Avenger with a 12" 3d arm and need help choosing between the Ortofon Cadenza (bronze or black, though I'd lean toward the bronze because it is the warmer of the two) vs the Soundsmith Paua.  My preferences are for a sound that is not overly detailed, but smooth through entire range, warmer side of neutral, wonderful midrange, and not overly dynamic, lively, detailed where listening fatigue can set in.  

I've previously had a VPI Prime turntable and Ortofon Quintet Black.  It certainly wasn't bad but have been hearing wonderful things about Soundsmith.  My phono stage is the Zesto Andros 1.2, so loading and gain should not be an issue with either.  
djfst
ekimg
78 posts
 
I have a Prime. When I purchased I put on my existing Orto Bronze MM. A couple months later I decided it was time to try a MC so I purchased a Orto Cadenza Bronze and a Lyra Delos.   All the reviews on the Cadenza Bronze are pretty spot on. I decided to keep the Delos only because also having the 2M Bronze I wanted a little variety. I am leaving on a road trip today for two weeks but will be listing the Cadenza Bronze when I return....less than 30 hours and inspected by my dealer and given a "pristine" rating.  Saw and listened to a couple Avengers this weekend at the SHOW in Irvine....beautiful table. Enjoy it!!!!
djfst OP
169 posts
 
I've heard great things on the Strain Gauge as well, but also out of my budget.  I do favor warmer cartridges, so not sure if realism of Soundsmith (which I've heard others talk about too) tends to mean dead neutral.  

EKIMG, what do you plan on listing your Cadenza Bronze for?  I can get a decent discount from my dealer on the Cadenza since I bought my Avenger from him (as well as the Paua), so may or may not be interested.  
ekimg
78 posts
 
djfst email me - melling@san.rr.com
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,503 posts
 
Why in the world would you put a "price point" cartridge on an Avenger with the 3D arm.  You're wasting the performance level. If you haven't the funds now...start saving and do it right.
djfst OP
169 posts
 
"Price point" cartridge?  I don't think a $3800 cartridge or a $2300 cartridge is "price point"cartridge  nor would the majority in high end audio IMHO.  The Soundsmith is a Class A cartridge.  So unless I put a $8,000 cartridge, I'm wasting the Avenger?   
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