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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
buzzman3535
1 posts
 
The shelter 501 is where I went after the 2m black.   Incredible detail that made better sound than 2m but i couldn't handle
the lack of "thump" and power from the MM.   I went back to clearaudio maestro and im very happy.     

Mc is great for your jazz but think carefully if you like to rock out.
herndonb
124 posts
 
Ortofon dealer:
I second gshepardbuster...I'd include the Ortofon MC Cadenza Red.  It's detailed, with excellent balance, nice percussive weighty punch, nice big soundstage, an excellent value too!
crazyeddy's avatar
crazyeddy
381 posts
 

jbhiller
I recently went through the same experience. I was using a 2M Black as well. I went to my first MC, and opted for the Benz ACE LOMC. So far so good, but I did have to add a SUT as the output is only .4 MV. The compliance of this cartridge works well with the effective mass of my tonearm, and I am happy with the results so far, but am looking forward to experimenting with some other MC's in the future.

 Good luck in your quest

jbhiller's avatar
jbhiller OP
1,436 posts
 
Crazyeddy, 

Do you like the Benz over the Ortofon 2M Black?  What do you like and dislike about the 2 cartridges?  I'd love to hear your thoughts. 
motoraway's avatar
motoraway
61 posts
 
My transition from the Ortofon 2M Black MM to MC......
 - Sumiko Blue Point Special EVO III - 2.5 mV High Output - solid performer, a little bit on the bright side but very detailed throughout the audio spectrum. Mine anyway. A bargain at +/- $430 on Ebay
- On to a Audio Technica AT33PTG/II 0.3mV Low Output - again another solid performer that seemed (to my ears) very similar to the 2M Black.
- Current - Audio Technica AT ART9 0.5mV High Output - For the time being, and I think it'll be for a long time to come! Rock solid with all types of music. I purchased the ART9 primarily because of all the hype here on Audiogon and have no regrets. Unfortunately I am not capable of accurately or thoroughly describing the nuances of each individual cartridge above. I do however know what I'm hearing with the ART9. It's pretty awesome and getting more so each day. 
 
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