My jazz collection told me to get a *real* system
Pratorius, that's a super helpful recommendation. Thanks! Jazztherapist- |
So let me nuance this a bit further. Let's say I hold off on the big purchases and throw down the $8K all at once in another 18-24 months. Seems like working with one dealer who can set me up, and do it synergistically, might make more sense. What would be a pleasing cartridge upgrade to my Shure M97xe to keep me enthusiastic? You know, something modest ($200-$400). |
I am not sure an upgrade in cartridge will necessarily do the trick. The Shure M97 is a nice cartridge. If you insist, I would suggest the following: Shelter 201 http://www.needledoctor.com/Shelter-201-MM-Phono-Cartridge?sc=2&category=877 I have been using this cartridge for the past few months and I am absolutely loving it. A level of performance above the Ortofon Blue (which is very good). Rich |
Hi Jazz, I believe that referral to Tone Of Music Audio is a very good idea. They certainly carriy a high quality selection of tube and solid state electronics. If they are good dealers you should have an opportunity to hear and be exposed to some terrific sounding products. . It may take some time and patience but would be worth it in the long term. Let your ears acclimate to these high quality audio products. You'll begin to identify what type of sound draws you more into the music. Charles |
I've owned an M97xE and Ortofon OM10. I gave those to my stepson. I own an Audio Technica AT-MONO3/LP HOMC cartridge for playing my mono LPs. I still own a Denon DL160, a Shelter 201, and an Audio Technica AT150MLX which--through a stylus swap--is now an AT150Sa, which has an aluminum pipe cantilever and nude Shibata stylus instead of the MLX's boron cantilever and MicroLine stylus. I really liked the MLX, but I like the AT150Sa that much better. It has a better tracking top end and the tonal balance and timbre are more natural and less "hi-fi." It totally leaves the Shure M97xE, Denon DL160, and Shelter 201 in the dust--more neutral, better tracking, smoother presentation yet more detailed, quicker, and especially more involving and musically satisfying. Audio Technica AT150SA has been discontinued but LpGear still has the AT150SA on closeout for $271.98. The AT150MLX used to be a $549 cartridge, so this is an exceptional value. Furthermore, if you want newer and better, Audio Technica upgraded the AT150 cartridge design to the new VM series. The cartridge itself has been reworked with a new, more efficient coil design and a center shield plate to increase L-R separation. One model is the VM760SLC with special line contact stylus for $649. The other is the VM750SA with Shibata for $349. At any rate, at $271.98, the AT150SA is stupid good for the money, and the Shibata stylus lasts longer than most. |
