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Cartridge recommendations for second system turntable please

So I have been thinking of assembling my old gear, which I have never sold, into a second system. The turntable would be a Music Hall MMF-7. I need a new cartridge for it, as the original Goldring Eroica that came with it is very old and has a bent cantilever. The rest of the system would be: Project Speedbox, MF KW500 integrated amp, MF Tri-vista DAC, MF A3.2 CDP, Transparent Powerbank 8, all Transparent cabling, Carver Amazing Loudspeakers. I listen to a lot of jazz, as well as rock, vocals, "world music," classical, pop. Thanks in advance for the cartridge recommendations. Would especially love to hear actual user experiences.
arsh
arsh OP
367 posts
 
Thanks guys! Great info.  I can use MC or MM (my KW500 can do either). Especially if I get an outboard phono stage.

Also, what maintenance or "tuning up" of the MMF7 should I do? It's been in my audio closet for 2 years.

 Thanks again!
tketcham
291 posts
 

Replace the platter bearing oil, I use Mobile 1 synthetic oil.

Clean and check the belt.

Clean and treat the RCA connectors.

Check the tonearm bearings for corrosion if the 'table has been sitting in a humid environment.

Enjoy your "new" turntable! '-)

Regards,

Tom

mattmiller's avatar
mattmiller
1,517 posts
 
Ok Do not put a DENON DL 103 on this turntable! not a good match. Go with a Dynavector 10X5 $650 high output MC or a Dynavector 20x2 $950 it comes in low .3mv or High 2.8mv. I would choose the high output one. Both of these are MC’s, I think MM’s are going to be too warm sounding for that table/tonearm. I use the 10" Project arm with the Dynavector 20x2 Low and my phono pre is very good, the sound is Huge and palpable very liquid and textured great detail and punch across the whole band with effortless extended highs. Make sure you get a NEW belt (very important) and pull the platter/ sub platter off and make sure it has oil. Getting the table on a good shelf and LEVEL will do wonders as well.

Matt M
arsh OP
367 posts
 
Thanks again Tom, and thanks Matt!
oregonpapa's avatar
oregonpapa
4,867 posts
 
Arsh ...

You say you like to play a lot of jazz. I'd recommend the Audio Technica OC9-MKIII. Its a killer for the money ($499 at LP Tunes) and it really gets down into those mono grooves. 

http://www.lptunes.com/Audio-Technica-AT-OC9-III-ATOC9M-III-cartridge-p/atoc9iii.htm

If you want to upgrade from there, I'd suggest the Audio Technica ART-9. Its a giant killer and does an even better job on the mono jazz records. 

http://www.lptunes.com/Audio-technica-AT-ART9-MC-phono-cartridge-p/atart09.htm
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