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best mm/mc preamp under $200 and best mc cartridge under $500 for an SME 3009 S2 arm ?

I guess the title says it all.  The arm is on a Linn Sondek LP12.

- Has anyone had any ACTUAL experience with a moving coil cartridge on an SME S2 arm, which is very light and hence needs a hi compliance cartridge ?  $500 is the max I want to spend.  Bass slam & needing extra treble to the point of being too bright  is the most important factor to me.  At my age, my ears are not what they used to be :-)

- Also, can anyone suggest an under $200 mc/mm simple preamp ?

Thanks

128x128cakyol
chakster's avatar
chakster
6,144 posts
 
@tablejockey 

The subject is LOW BUDGET + performance.


yeah, with pocket size bluetooth speakers 
dustin_collman's avatar
dustin_collman
56 posts
 
The Emotiva XPS-1 phono preamp is pretty good and under $200. I used it in the past and didn’t have any issues. I recommend reading up on it. 
tablejockey
3,862 posts
 
"yeah, with pocket size  Bluetooth speakers"

what does that even mean, Chakster?

Your often know it all response doesn't  address the OP's question.

The OP can go to the Schiit website to see the recommended unit IS below his threshold,and read the specs/reviews.


cakyol's avatar
cakyol OP
940 posts
 
Hi invictus, I will definitely try your recommendation.  The price seems very reasonable and more importantly, you have personal experience with it.  Sometimes price/performance ratios do not make sense and personal opinions are more valid.

Thanks again

dekay's avatar
dekay
5,505 posts
 
Google "Audio-Technica VM540ML" which is a MM that sells for around $250.

Considering your tonearm (9.5 grams effective mass) and your stated tonal preference it's a good prospect, IMO.

It's a fairly new entry into their line, but perhaps someone here has tried it (I've only read ambiguous online reviews).

I use an SME 3009II/non-improved with an effective mass of approx. 12.5 grams and would not consider using many/most moving coils with it (wouldn't consider using any of the ones I know of with your 9.5 gram version of the SME arm).

DeKay
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