Lyra Delos or Hana ML

Perhaps you are taking a cue from a remark that was made on another thread recently, where the OP was considering a Hana, and someone gave a favorable mention to the Delos as an option the OP was not considering.  Personally, I would not let such a casual remark knock me off my line of reasoning, especially if it means spending more than you may want to spend. (I am not taking sides as between the Hana and the Delos.)

@dodgealum

Agree that Benz leans towards the lush side, but only slightly. I’ve owned three Benz (currently still on the LPS and love it) and they are rather flat in their response(e.g. not tipped up in the treble) so this could be perceived as lush. Detail is not at all lacking with Benz. If the OP wants to go the Benz route without breaking the bank the Benz Wood SL is the sweet spot in their lineup. I also had a Delos for about a year and while a superb cartridge, there is nothing about it that could be considered even remotely "lush". On another note, recently I even went the vintage MM route (Gracy Ruby F8 and Stanton 981 HSZ) to compare and went right back to my LPS. I wish there were a way to trial carts cause they are the most personal, subjective, emotional centerpiece of one’s analog setup.

I agree, the Delos is a ruthless truth teller, at least in the five systems i have so far heard it in, including two of my own. I also have had a Hana ML and various Benz, notably of late a Rosewood. It leans lush by very very small degrees. Hopefully we are helping the OP. ;-) 

The Delos is not a lush cartridge...

Where does ART9xa land on lush, analytical spectrum?