Audio Technica VM540ML v. N97xe Jico SAS

Hi bstat -

I have a very similar set-up as yours ... Technics 1200GR (the new 1200 series) with the AT VM540.  the Stereophile review pointed me towards this cartridge.  Amp is a Rega Brio R, Parasound Zphono preamp, and Omega Compact Alnico monitors.

The AT does a nice job.  A lot of cartridge for the money.  The AT does require some break-in though, so be prepared.   Not sure what cartridge you are changing from, so I can not add too much more.  

I know the Mani pre has a series of switches that you can set for the  cartridge.  So you should be good to go.

Rich 

Coming from a Shure M97xE. You think I will notice a difference?

Yes, you will notice the difference.  I never quite grew to like the 97XE, I actually preferred the SC35C in the Shure line.  The 97XE was a little too closed sounding for me.    

Rich 

Input capacitance of Schiit Mani is 100 pf.

Thanks Stevecham, what does this mean on whether one cart will perform better than another?