Choice of Phono Cartridges
Wow, lot's of information for me to sort through and research. Thanks for all the input. I'm going to continue working in both directions - that is looking at a new TT or keeping the AT and replacing the cartridge. We'll see how the math works out and how that equals better sounding vinyl playback. Richard |
I remember Peter Ledermann (SoundSmith) has mentioned Walter Stanton MI design and some other cartridges when i asked him about clever design from the past. Regarding cartridge and tonearm systems resonance frequency, Richard, you have to read this: https://www.ortofon.com/support/support-hifi/resonance-frequency/ |
Dear @richmos : I think that rigth now you AT TT/tonearm combination is fine to stay with. The tonearm design looks as one of the best tonearm ever made that's the Technics EPA 100MK2, even your AT tonearm comes with the best VTA mechanism ever made where today 20K+ tonearms not even dreams with. That VTA mechanism was designed by Technics in the very old times of analog audio. So for me stay with and before you change it ( if you do in the future. ) your choice for a better wuality cartridge is spot on. I agree with the gentleman that recomended Nagaoka cartridges that's like AT or Ortofon manufacturers an " old " way experimented manufacturer too. You must try this one and I'm sure you can't go wrong with: https://www.lpgear.com/product/NAGAOKAMP300.html Due that the AT tonearm designs is a removable headshell design you can match the cartridge with the tonearm for improved quality performance levels. You can use a different headshells than the stock AT, you can choose for magnesium build material to wood one or even headshells of blended materials. With different headshells the kind of sound you will listen is different too. Even if you don't want to test with other headshells you can improve the sound changing the headshell stock wires for better quality wires. Anyway, as you posted: " lot's of information for me to sort through and research ."" Regards and enjoy the MUSIC NOT DISTORTIONS, R. |
I have had both Sumiko cartridges, and currently have both a Hana EL and Ortofon 2M Bronze. IMO, the Hana and Ortofon are superior to the Blue Points. The 2M Bronze is more dynamic, and has more detail than Hana. The Hana is smoother overall, and is possibly more refined. Like them both. Am also using an AT ART9, and thinking of acquiring a Kiseki Blue or Hana ML. Have 3 TTs in use, and a spare Clearaudio Concept tt with concept MC cartridge. So I’m a bit over stocked on analogue stuff right now. |
