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Mono cartridge recommendation

Ok, so tomorrow, my TNT will be getting a new baby brother.  I'd like to get a mono cartridge for it, my budget for now is up to $1K, less is better but not strictly necessary.

I'm open to MC, MI, or MM carts, but I generally prefer MCs. My Herron VTPH-2A can handle pretty much anything. I also have a few SUTs too to play around with. 

I tend to gravitate toward extremely neutral cartridges, so that's a consideration. I know everyone's system is different and will have different opinions on what constitutes neutral.

I have a couple of tonearms of various masses, so matching shouldn't be an issue. I've seen ATs, Hanas, Ortofons, and a few others in that range, but I don't have an opportunity to audition any of them before purchase.

My system:
Phono preamp: Herron VTPH-2A
Preamp:  Balanced Audio Technology VK-30SE
Amp:  Bryston 4B SST2
Speakers Magnepan 1.7i
Among other things...

I'm hoping the collective intelligence of the group will help me find a good match. So, what are your impressions of various mono cartridges in this price range?
vinylzone
vinylzone OP
288 posts
 
Thanks to everyone who responded.

Further research leads to further questions :)

I'm seeing some mono cartridges that use horizontal generators vs others that seem to be just strapped versions of their stereo counterparts. 

The ones that are strapped versions probably retain the sonic characteristics of their stereo versions.  I'm not sure how or if the horizontal generators affect the sound. Are the horizontal generators simply a different cartridge with it's own unique sonic signature or are they still similar to their stereo counterparts if they have one?

Is the generator configuration significant?
vinylzone OP
288 posts
 
@heretobuy 
I'm not looking to put together a pure mono system, though the thought did cross my mind.  I suppose one could move one of their speakers to the center and disconnect one amplifier channel without having to spend for a completely separate mono system.  Problematic, though with very heavy speakers.

@senza 
I'm not seeing any shops selling the Tedeska One nor can I find pricing, so I'm guessing it's way out of my current budget.
audioguy85's avatar
audioguy85
2,033 posts
 
I bought the stereo/mono switch from sweet pedals...30 bucks....however, I will at some point pick up a grado mono on the cheap.
chakster's avatar
chakster
6,144 posts
 
I hope all the questions about Miyajima MONO can be answered by Miyajima distributor in USA  
vinylshadow
533 posts
 
Miyajima Zero if you can double your budget..I originally bought an Ortofon Mono Quintet but jumped to the Zero before opening the box..... I put together a separate mono table(Basis 2001 w/ Rega RB900) with a tube Rogue Ares Magnum upgraded w/ Mono SUT/mono input/mono switch.

I had to use an Audiomachina anti resonance 3.8g shim as the RB900 is a low mass tonearm.

If interested in the Miyajima Zero, contact Robin Wyatt at info at robyattaudio.com He is the N. America distributor for Miyajima.

Great guy who is super knowledgeable and helpful.
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