Tweaking the new Grado Timbre Sonata 3


I have about 10 hours on my new Grado Sonata 3.

relevant system:

VPI Prime > Sonata 3> ARC PH3se (phono pre) > Herron 1A (preamp) > ARC Classic 60 (amp) > Thiel CS 2.4’s (speakers)

My old cart was a Nagaoka MP 500.  While good, the Grado is better overall. But the highs are a bit more extended than the Nagaoka, which seems to be a bit excessive, but just a bit, almost, but not quite sibilant.  
Alignment was done with my trusty AS Smartractor, though difficult to use on the Grado due to the long wood body overhang on the Grado. 

Raising and lowering VTA has little effect. 
My question, before I get too worried about this prior to complete break in, is will the highs “soften” up once broke in. Is that typical with Grados? Or, is it I gots what I got. 
last_lemming
What they recommend is what they recommend, not necessarily what you prefer. Your question:
before I get too worried about this prior to complete break in, is will the highs “soften” up once broke in. 
Is what I answered. If you want a softer top end more loading (using a resistor with a value lower than 47kOhms) will certainly accomplish that. The only way you will ever know is to try. Go and listen. You will see.
I had Grados for many years...cartridges, headphones....they all need lots of time before they dance.   Be patient
Sonata 3 Timbre Series
Recommended Load Range: 10k - 47k ohms

But the highs are a bit more extended... , which seems to be a bit excessive, but just a bit, almost, but not quite sibilant.

Use 10k Ohm instead of 47k Ohm if you think there are too much highs