I have the SL and the Umami as well as the ART-9xa. The Hanas are lush and gorgeous and the Umami is stunning. but the the ART is also a fantastic cartridge. I was looking at the Zephyr as well but I loved the Hana sound and their trade-up policy.
Zephyr MIMC vs Hana ML
Mounting on a Shure DME 3009 S2 improved with a Thorens TD125 Mk2.
presently using Ortofon 2M black through Musical surroundings Nova III phono stage and linear power supply. This was s major step up from the Grace F7 ruby that came with the TT/TA.
considering a step up and for various reasons I’m leaning towards one of those two cartridges.
Tonearm effective mass, compliance, resonance all check out.
Anyone with enough experience with either/both cartridges to offer sn informed opinion? I’m all ears.
thanks.
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- 26 posts total
@normb I've been considering exact same two cartridges for upgrade, after much research seems the Audio Technica ART-9xa and Lyra Delos are two more of the favorites around this price level. These have become my top two contenders at this point. |
@sns Yes the ART-9xa is that good. I have my Hana SL off my turntable and my Umami on deck but I can't seem to let go of the ART which is the keeper for now. |
Funny, I’d started out thinking about saving a few more dollars and looking for a Umami Red. a brief online search is steering me in that direction. No hurry. US made is a factor but most of my system isn’t.
the response to my question has been overwhelming, reassuring is some of the similarities in responses. my birthday is next month, i start social security in February, VA-disabled at 90% - kinda looking for an upscale upgrade to my system, like one and done, so long as my hearing holds out. like the chalice selection scene in Indians Jones’ Last crusade, I hope to choose wisely for a lifetime. Audio-Technica, hmm? |
- 26 posts total