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Cartridge recommendations under $2500

Since auditioning cartridges is so difficult I’m looking for advise on MC cartridges that should pair well with my equipment. I’m looking for transparency with a bit of warmth and I’m ok buying a low hour used cartridge from a reputable source. My equipment includes:

Linn LP12 with Mose Hercules, Cirkus and Ittok (Effective Mass 11.5g)
ARC PH7 Phono Amp
ARC LS25 MKii Pre Amp
ARC VT200 Power Amp
Raido C1.1 Speakers
Shunyata Alpha Helix Power Cables
Morrow SP7 Speaker Cables
Morrow MA7 Interconnects
Morrow PH7 Phono Cable

Some cartridges I’ve been researching include:
Ortofon Cadenza Black
Ortofon Cadenza Bronze
Lyra Kleos
Koetsu Rosewood
Koetsu Black Goldline
Hana ML

I want to keep the cost under $2,500 and I’m not in a position to upgrade the turntable / tonearm at this time. Oh...and my current cartridge is a Linn Asaka for what it’s worth.

Thanks in advance for your collective advise. I hope this is enough to get the ball rolling.
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sancho22
106 posts
 
Since VAS was mentioned check out the vAS Nova. It comes in several iterations - you can call Steve Leung directly and he can work with you.

It beats my Cadenza Black (and my buddies who has both).
Smooter just bit less analytical and far more enjoyable for longer sessions. You can also get the matching SUT if needed.

I do love the Cadenza, don't get me wrong (and I think the bronze is superb as well - if not better in some ways) but like the Vas NOVA a hair better. For context - both my buddy and I have a VPI tables.
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dodgealum
1,406 posts
 
At that price point lots of great options many already mentioned. Over time I have discovered the value of a “balanced” presentation after experience with cartridges that excelled in certain areas or were colored in some way. I always felt my ART 9 and before that even my OC9 met the definition of balanced. Recently, I moved to a Charisma Audio cartridge which raised the bar in this regard—simply wonderful, enjoyable—never drawing attention to itself. Highly recommended with several models below your price point. Caveat—not sure about synergy with the Linn.
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jili12
21 posts
 
Extremely happy with the Hana ML.
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lalitk
5,594 posts
 
@dodgealum,

May I know which Charisma Audio cart you own? 
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dodgealum
1,406 posts
 
@lalitk I am using the Signature One but my comments apply to the entire line based on my reading of the reviews but also more importantly speaking in depth with Bernard Li of Charisma about his design objectives.
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