Looking for the best moving coil cart that is around $5K used

@drew_k, From all carts that I own or used to own, all except for one are MC cartridges (Lyra Etna, Dynavector TE Kaitora Rua, Madrigal Carnegie One (by Mark Levinson), Linn Troika, etc., and only $99 Shure M97XE Phono Cartridge is MM and sounds excellent for the price on my TTs. HOWEVER, I do believe that a cartridge makes a huge difference and I agree with you that the sound can be maid or ruined, but for a different reason. The biggest disadvantage with a great and expensive cart might be that you can hear all flaws of the original recording. IMHO, it has nothing to do with a cart, but a master record.

Handymaan, I know of an Ikeda 9TT  cartridge for sale. It costs new $4400. He has had it for about three years, but I seldom hear him using it. He has not advertised it

He wants $2000. I had better check to see if it is still available,if you want it. You can call: eight hundred plus 820 and thirteen and fourteen.

tooblue:  I know you and others, think I've lost my mind, what little of it is left-too much "60's."  I invite u to try setting up an inexpensive TT and strap a primo cart on it.  If your set up is correct and the TT is good, I really don't think you will hear that much difference.  I've read all the responses of how I need to pack it in and concentrate on "the flavor of the month", but I stand by what I have said.  I have top notch hardware, as well as vinyl.  After I altered my Pioneer tone arm, to give it greater mass, to me, there's very little difference in the final sound.  There have been many kind recommendations, and I will contemplate these suggestions..

Elizabeth:  I remember talking to you years ago and am not sure where you went, but glad you're back..  What say you?  I welcome all comments.