Help with MC Cartridge Recommendation to Swap from Ortofon 2M Black MM

oops--I almost forgot...

Roksan Radius 5 turntable and Nima unipivot arm. 

I don't know if it is a match for your arm but, if it is, a modified Denon dl 103 is inexpensive and can compete with much more expensive cartridges.

I've done them with ebony bodies and naked with a 3mm carbon fiber top plate. Potting them with epoxy is also a nice next level mod, too. My favorite was a naked, carbon fiber top plate and potted. 

I sold it because a fellow audio nut wanted it. I'll make another one for myself but he is one lucky dog.

If you are crafty, have a good eye and a steady hand you can get yourself a screaming deal.

jbhiller-

if going a little bit north of your budget is doable, consider the Audio Technica ART 9. You have all the gear for superb sound.

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/pani-new-art-9-up-and-running?highlight=art%2B9

There just doesn’t seem to be ANY users of this cart with a negative review, including those who have carts twice the price. 

Yours ears will thank you for going over budget by $100.

http://www.lpgear.com/product/ATART9.html

AT-ART9.