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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
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.
johnnyb53
3,510 posts
 
Woops! 

TNT review of the Hana SL LOMC.
dlcockrum's avatar
dlcockrum
2,190 posts
 
Hi tablejockey,

AT's upper lines were always among the best MMs IMO. Incredible stylus profiles and ultra-light cantilevers made of beryllium before the EPA helped us out. 

Enjoy your fine cartridge and don't worry about "what's better". You are already at the sweet spot of price/performance.

Best to you tablejockey,
Dave
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