2. analog
  3. 133571-9473

Trying vinyl, need some help!

For the last month, I have been searching for a good cd player or transport and thought I had settled on a Mcintosh unit when I started looking and turntables. I found a Roksan Radius 5 with a Nima tonearm that was in my budget so I bought it.
Now comes the problem, the cartridge. There are so many to choose from and they are not cheap so finding one that would compliment the table/arm is a bit intimidating.
My Audio Research preamp has 2 inputs for MM, or I can purchase a dedicated MC preamp.
If anyone has any experience with the Radius 5 please let me know what you have tried.
drf24
brianmoriarty
51 posts
 
Correction, Grado holds the patent on the stereo moving coil cart. 
drf24 OP
21 posts
 
@ roberjerman Very opinionated aren't you? I picked up the SP4 for $300, a very quick look at SP6 prices puts it in the 1500-2000 range. I wasn't really looking for advice on my preamp, I was hoping to find someone with the same or similar turntable and what cartridge they were using. The sound of a particular piece of equipment is subjective. I am only trying to wade through hundreds of choices in cartridges to hopefully get lucky and find a cartridge that mates well with the turntable and plays sweet music!
drf24 OP
21 posts
 
@ brianmoriarty No clue what the SP4 sounds like yet, I tested it for functionality as soon as it showed up and began tearing it down to clean and modify. Oh and I looked at the Grado Masters, I am leaning towards the Grado for now.

Thanks to all for your input, help, and opinions. It has helped narrow a large choice down to 30 to 40!
roberjerman
4,319 posts
 
I'm basing my opinion of the SP4 on The Audio Critic's test in 1977 (Preamp Survey). I recommend you read this report! And I only paid $800 for my SP6 (in original factory box!).                              Regarding cartridges: any of the upper-tier Grados will do! I still have my vintage G1+ mounted in a headshell as a backup spare!
donvito101
278 posts
 
You said your budget was under $600. The last time I looked the Grado Master was $1000!
More to discover