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Help in deciding between these two cartridges for an upgrade

I have been very happy with my Benz Micro Wood SM.  I have had it on two Rega turntables with several different amp/preamp/phono combinations.  They were all Audio Research tube components.  I now have the Audio Research GSi75 which has two gain settings:  45db & 63db.  I use it on the high setting now with 0.8mV from the Benz.

I have had my eye on two well reviewed cartridges that are both about 0.4mV

Ortofon Cadenza Bronze 
Kiseki Blue NS

There isn't anything specific I am trying to achieve, simply have the upgrade itch.  Now with a Rega RP10, an integrated amp and my Wilson Sophias there isn't a lot to change other than the cartridge.  My previous cartridge was an Eroica LX that had the Sapphire retip service from SoundSmith.  The move to the Benz was dramatic.  I would want the next move to be as or more dramatic for the investment.  Both of these seem to be at the peak of 'bang for your buck' in the $2000 bracket.

I listen to mostly classic rock, jazz, folk/singer-songwriter, pop, blues and R&B.  

Thanks for your thoughts!Dana
dhite71
millercarbon's avatar
millercarbon
12,531 posts
 
I would totally go with the Soundsmith Zephyr MIMC https://sound-smith.com/cartridges/fixed-coil/zephyr-mimc-%E2%98%86Fremer loved the earlier version. The new one incorporates a lot of improvements notably to the body and with the new DEMS design to enable azimuth adjustment on any arm.
https://www.analogplanet.com/content/soundsmith%E2%80%99s-new-zephyr-mimc-star-cartridge-luxury-you-...
dhite71 OP
290 posts
 
Thanks for that option, MC

I had been focused on the other two due to the nice deals from Kron here on Agon.  I simply cannot pay retail for most anything, especially high-end audio components.  

After reading Michael's review, I actually stumbled across a unique option to pick up a new Soundsmith Zephyr MIMC for $1400.  I just may go for it!  The rebuild option for $350 really is a nice bonus to essentially have years and years with that design for minimal cost long term.
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drrsutliff
837 posts
 
I have owned the Ortofon Cadenza Bronze and currently have a Kiseki Purple Heart in my cartridge rotation. I have listened to a Kiseki Blue also.  With the Bronze and its Replicant 100 stylus I found it responded well to very minor changes in SRA adjustment. The Rega arms can use spacers on their mounting base for SRA adjustment, I believe, but not sure this is going to allow you to maximize the Bronze.  The Kiseki cartridges stylus shape (line contact) is not quite as sensitive to this area of setup, but can also benefit.  Both excellent cartridges.  I did wear out the Bronze enjoying every minute of it and sent it back to the factory for a complete rebuild once.  Not as inexpensive as a SoundSmith rebuild...
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