VPI Shyla cartridge?

"It's an ART-9, just with a red plastic housing."

The ART9 has been my choice for years. Definitely a "can't go wrong" cartridge in the $1K price point.

If you look at the Prime 21 vs the Prime 21+ you are paying a US$2000 premium for a rebadged Audio Technica ART9 which you can buy for a US1k and a better phono cable. This is typical VPI upselling strategy.

The only benefit I can see is it comes pre set up which saves you that hassle if you are a novice.

At US$6500 check out the Rega P10 as a comparison.

"The only benefit I can see is it comes pre set up which saves you that hassle if you are a novice."
At US$6500 check out the Rega P10 as a comparison. "

It's not a package I would ever consider. I like the Rega P10, but if I had to choose between the 2, I would go with the Prime.

you are paying a US$2000 premium for a rebadged Audio Technica ART9 which you can buy for a US1k and a better phono cable

So what phono cable would you get? If you had that same $2K budget for cart and cable, what would you grab? 

"So what phono cable would you get? If you had that same $2K budget for cart and cable, what would you grab? "

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 $2k cart/cable will  you allow for plenty of choices. Obviously, your particular table/phonostage  will be a factor for an appropriate choice.

The ART9 should work on many. At $1200, it leaves you with around $800. Cable choice? It's another contentious/polarizing subject. I'd spend around $500 or less. Used could mean something 1/2 of retail.