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

I'd like to dip my feet into the MC world.  What would be a good introduction as I am going from an Ortofon 2M Black MM?  

Here's my setup

Manley Chinook tube phono preamp
Primaluna Dialogue Premium HP integrated
PSB Imagine T2 loudspeakers

I'd like to stay south of $1k.  I listen to all sorts of music, but on vinyl it would be in this order:

Jazz 50%
Rock 40%
Folk/Other 10%

I've never had a MC so I don't know where to start.  Thanks all!!!
128x128jbhiller
tablejockey
3,917 posts
 
dlcockrum-

I should qualify that by stating it's a couple hundred dollars LESS, otherwise similar construction except the ART 7 has a non permeable core vs the traditional magnetic of the ART 9. The difference DOES result in a subjectively more delicate, airy presentation which some may find nicer.

So YES, it may possibly be a better value.

inna
7,296 posts
 
What do you hope to accomplish with this move? Personally, I don't even think of going with MC for under $1k. If you don't quite like the Ortofon, you could try Rocksan or Nagaoka MM, but again I don't know your reasons for wishing to have a MC.
dlcockrum's avatar
dlcockrum
2,190 posts
 
I took it to mean that you were saying that the AT ARTs are the best cartridges in the world. 

That would be a ludicous statement in many ways, although they may be your favorites. 
johnnyb53
3,510 posts
 
Hana SL--Shibata stylus, low output, from the "cartridge maker to the stars," just $750.

TNT review.
tablejockey
3,917 posts
 
dlcockrum-
take a look at this one...
http://www.lpgear.com/product/ATART1000.html
I believe it retails somewhere between 5-8K. Now that's ludicrous! Especially since the magnitude of improvement doesn't  justify 5X cost of the ART 9!!!

Likely it does sound heavenly though. 

Sure wish I had the means for a system to handle such extravagance.
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