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Technics SL1210GAE + Accuphase E-480 (AD-50) + ??? (cartridge)

Looking for some great cartridge options for the Technics SL1210GAE (stock) and the Accuphase E-480 with the AD-50 phonostage.  The challenge I see is that many options like the Kiseki Purpleheart seems to want higher loading than the AD-50 is capable of (300ohms, max).  I'm looking to spend up to $4000 for a cartridge that sounds amazing.  Using Magico S5 MkII speakers.

I like authoritative bass, but a really airy midrange and treble that has a clear "ease" to it.  I like my midrange "painted" in front of me instead of coming at me.  I had heard the Purpleheart was great that way, but I'd prefer not to get into separate phonostages for a second system, hence the use of the AD-50.
tre9901
lalitk's avatar
lalitk
5,838 posts
 
@tre9901,

Another vote for Hana Umami Red. Great synergy and gorgeous sound with my Accuphase E-650 / AD-50. My tonearm is SME V.
lancelock's avatar
lancelock
1,108 posts
 
I have an SL1200GAE and have tried an AT ART9 and Soundsmith Paua MKII. Both sound great.
rauliruegas
13,129 posts
 
Dear @tre9901 : Hanna is very good but the Audio Technica ART-9XA is a huge challenge not only to that Hanna but for any top cartridge.:

https://www.audio-technica.com/en-us/cartridges/line-series/art-series/at-art9xa

Regards and enjoy the MUSIC NOT DISTORTIONS,
R.
jdal
168 posts
 
I have an Ortofon Cadenza bronze on my SL-1210GAE and it sounds great.
tre9901 OP
13 posts
 
@jdal Thank you for the suggestion!  Which headshell are you using?  Did you have to shim for VTA?  Any other setup issues?

@rauliruegas I see there are now two different ART-9 carts.  Is there a reason the XA is best for this setup?

@chakster I have heard of the ART1000, why do you like this cartridge?  Have you used it with technics G/GAE?

@lalitk Curious as to what settings you're using with the AD-50 and Umami Red.  Were there other carts you compared?
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