Question on Denon DL-103 retipping options and preferences


I have been looking at getting a Denon DL-103 retipped and I have narrowed it down to getting it done by Steve at VAS or by Andy at Needle Clinic. 

Both companies approach to the DL-103 is very different and I am curious if anyone has heard cartridges from each or what you think that may be better for amazing sounding rock.

Steve recommends a wood housing and then will do a Boron/MR retipping, where Andy will modify the plastic housing on the DL-103 to convert it's enclosed outer body to a half nude body, lightening it up which he says will make it track better.  His conversion will be a micro ridge nude stylus (sapphire/boron cantilever) 

So as stated very different approaches, same cost for the most part, I have ruled Soundsmith out just based on time, I know Andy turns around in a day, but have read a lot about both so I figured I would ask the question to see where people lean more often.  I do already have an ebony housing, just want to get a cartridge that punches way above its weight.

If there is something I should look at outside the DL-103 I would be open to hear about it.

Just for the record this cartridge will be going on a SOTA Sapphire VI with an Audiomods series 6 tonearm and I have a McIntosh MP100 going to a tube rolled Schiit Freya+ driving by two Odyssey Kismet monoblocks and Martin Logan speakers.  
128x128justinrphillips
I have a ZU/Denon DL103 cartridge with ZU’s highest rating. I sent mine to Andy @ Needle Clinic for a retipped and cantilever. I went with the original as Andy told me if I replaced it with the boron cantilever and better stylus that it would change the sound dramatically.  Since I was already happy with the sound,  I went with the original at $200 and I am very happy.
Maybe I need to rethink this.  My goal is not a Denon sound bout an amazing MC cart that makes rock sound amazing!  Maybe a used OC9 III may be a good way to go.

I was scared to death about sending my Clearaudio to Andy.  After his amazing service, I would send him another without hesitation.  Andy likes to discuss what he is doing and won't just take your money unless he is sure he will help.  I did upgrade the canteliver and tip to better quality than originally on there and it was worth it.  The fast turnaround is just an added bonus.