One of those two new versions, probably the lowest output one, seems to be an update (or an up-cost) of the ART7, in disguise. I am very fond of the ART7. I am not into or able to split hairs about minute differences among very similar cartridges, because there are so many uncontrolled variables involved in setting up a cartridge, starting with the tonearm and headshell and ending with the set-up procedure and how reproducibly it is done, any one of which could account for the nuances you do or don't hear.
AT-ART9XI Cartridge - Reduced Compliance
Hi folks, I'm leaning toward the AT-ART9 cartridge for my SME V. The new version - the ART9XI - has a thicker solid boron stylus (was .26mm, now .28mm) and slightly lower compliance (was 18, now 15 x10-6).
The newer version costs $300 more ($1,300 v. $1,000). I'm inclined to buy the old one. Any opinions? (Please keep in mind I bought my SME V 30 years ago when it was $2k even.) Thanks in advance!
The newer version costs $300 more ($1,300 v. $1,000). I'm inclined to buy the old one. Any opinions? (Please keep in mind I bought my SME V 30 years ago when it was $2k even.) Thanks in advance!
- ...
- 37 posts total
- 37 posts total