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Phono cartridge Goldilocks

I recently sold my Koetsu RSP because it way way too dark in my system. I bought a Kleos SL as I had several recommendations that it provided great clarity and treble extension. Well it does, but perhaps too much for the system.

I am looking for something that fits between the two in terms of overall speed, clarity and upper mids-treble presentation. One person recommended My Sonic Labs.

The system is:

Schroder SQ reference arm on an SP-10/Steve Dobbins plinth table.
Coincident phono stage and Frankenstein 2 amps
Audio Kinesis Zephrin speakers

Budget is around $5k-$7k and a used cartridge is fine.
jarrett
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Two more to consider would be the ZYX UNIverse II and the Transfiguration Proteus. I don't think you could go wrong with either.

My Sonic Labs is supposed to be very nice too, but I haven't heard any of them.
nmmusicman
276 posts
 
I have a Kleos on a JMW-9 signature tone arm and an Audio Technical AT150ANV on another JMW-9 signature tone arm and the AT is much more liquid than the Kleos and it tracks much better as well, especially the inner groove. 

The AT is one of the best cartridges I've had the pleasure to use and dispels the notion that MC cartridges are superior. I would put it on my top 3 picks.

tom_hankins
928 posts
 
Benz Micro LP-S mr. Ive owned both the Kleos and RSP. It has all the weight and texture of the RSP, and close to the kleos detail without ever sounding tipped towards the top end. Check reviews online. Its a powerful, detailed, sound, balanced from top to bottom. Mine went around 4 years and thousands of hours before retip.




kennythekey
593 posts
 
You have a fine system. I have heard the Shun Mook reference cartridge in a system very similar to mine, but more upgraded, and it sounded completely natural, smooth, well balanced, and relaxed. This cartridge uses the ZYX core. First, find out how well it would mate with your Schroder.
Kenny
kennythekey
593 posts
 
You have a fine system. I have heard the Shun Mook reference cartridge in a system very similar to mine, but more upgraded, and it sounded completely natural, smooth, well balanced, and relaxed. This cartridge uses the ZYX core. First, find out how well it would mate with your Schroder.
Kenny
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