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MM Cartridge Recommendation

Hello Everyone, 
Over the past year I've been slowly building up my first system and have just recently upgraded my turntable to a Clearaudio Concept w/ Satisfy Carbon arm.  

My current total system is as follows:
- Belles Aria [Integrated w/ MM phono] 
- B&W 705 [original series from 2004 stand mounts w/ matching stands]
- Clearaudio Concept w/ Satisfy Carbon tonearm 
- Ortofon 2M Black MM cartridge 

Overall I've been very happy with my system especially working within a reasonable budget.  
The Clearaudio has also been a great upgrade from my original entry level [U-Turn Orbit] turntable. 
I bought it used with the 2M Black already mounted, and it is very smooth/neutral sounding with a lot of detail. 
However, at times I find it almost too neutral.

Would anyone have recommendations on another MM cartridge to pair with my existing system?
I'm still trying to determine if I may like another sound better [perhaps more warmth or even just comparison for a different sound] as I explore and still learn what sounds I like. 

I know many people prefer MC, however at this time I do not want to add a MC phono preamp to my system.   
I'd consider HOMC [ie Hana cartridge] but I'm not sure if they would work within my exiting Belles Aria MM system?

My budget is ~$800. 
My preference is to buy new however would consider an easily accessible used [I just don't want to have to search for some obscure hard to find cartridge].  

Also please keep in mind that I am still new to this hobby so am by no means an expert in cartridge setup & alignment. 

Any advice or feedback is really appreciated! 

Thanks! 

 

dsjs4
dsjs4 OP
18 posts
 
Thanks again everyone! 
If nothing else this has really educated me on a lot more options than I had previously considered.  It also seems to show just how subjective "good" sound can be based on each person's own preference. 

Here have been my thoughts so far: 
  • The Audio Technica - seem like they may really present some great sound at a good value.  Found NOS AT150MLX for $479 which might be worth it just to try that series.  Also the new VM760SLC seems to be the replacement.  Anyone have experience with either. 
  • Garrott Brothers P-77i - seems to have a big cult following and great reviews.  Any sources to actually purchase in the USA or have to order from Australia?  This one seems like a really high potential cartridge. 
  • GRACE - sounds like one of the best all time MM.  Although seems like the secret is definitely out because so far most of what I can find is in the $500 - $600 for a broken stylus.  I also have no experience to buy used cartridges so would want to make sure it's a really reputable source. Any one selling?? lol 
  • Clearaudio Maestro - sounds like a great option as well but to quote @chakster I'm also concerned about the unprotected cantilever and no user replaceable styli.  Also, are these made by Audio Technica?  Maybe they have a similar sound and better value with the AT?? 
  • Nagaoka MP500 - still interested but after looking further it seems like they are now going for $1k.  At that price maybe better consider something else ie) SoundSmith Carmen. 
I definitely still have a lot to learn and more research to do.  Thanks! 

mr_m
1,900 posts
 
OP. Lots of good discounts on Nagaoka on the net. Saw a M-P 500 for around $760.
geof3
1,125 posts
 
Some of the best carts in the world have an “unprotected cantilever”. Just use a bit more caution. Minor issue if even that. Like any subject in the HiFi world, you will get a million opinions. You’ll have to try somethings for yourself and see where you land. A replaceable styli is a nice feature of some MM carts, but shouldn’t be a deal killer alone.

audioguy85's avatar
audioguy85
2,015 posts
 
You are not going to better the black unless you spend way more money. Most likely you will have to buy a moving coil to better it. I have a bronze 2m and I love it. It does everything right by me, especially paired with a nice tubed phono preamp.
knotscott
820 posts
 
Picking a cart is VERY subjective, and the synergy of a cart with any given system is a variable.  If a system is neutral to slightly warmish, a brighter cart can liven things up and sound great....but the same cart on a system that's already on the brighter side can make your ears bleed.  In many ways its a shot in the dark unless you have a good dealer nearby that will let you try them.  

It's helpful to know your system's traits well, and know what your preferences are.  Do you prefer brighter sound, or does treble emphasis make you cringe?  (that's partly why its so subjective)

Nagaoka  prices have been on the rise (along with many other things), but FWIW, I did spot some MP500s on Ebay directly from Japan for ~ $791.  Price, and that "shot in the dark" syndrome is one of the reasons I tried a Nag MP150 first....it let me try a good example of a Nag cart for ~ $300 to see if it was for me...then later opted for the MP500 stylus for an additional $257.  

Good luck with your search.
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