Time for a new MM cartridge

I’m guilty as charged on lumping MI in with MM.😉 The current version Grado Reference is more than I care to spend at today’s pricing. I like the sound of the Grados, but looking to branch out a bit.

On another note; I received my Flux Hifi ultrasonic stylus cleaner last night. Used it for first time this morning (after my post), and it breathed a bit of life back into the Reference. I thought my regimen of Onzow and stylus brush was adequate, but the Flux seems to improve on that significantly. I'll still add a second/new cartridge.

I mentioned the MI type, because I personally have a predilection for that type, although I own and enjoy cartridges of all 3 major types.  On the other hand, the last Grado I owned was a TLZ, back in the 80s, which I enjoyed for many years as my only cartridge.

mr m. 

the Nag 200 is superb in any price range .

The AT VM760sLC is an excellent choice for your arm. The Goldring 1042 would be another. The Nags are on the stiff side for the SME. My favorite MM is the Clearaudio Charisma. I do not like the Grados and Soundsmiths until you get to the more expensive versions. IMHO the stylus is king. The AT and the Goldring have top shelf styluses you do not see in other cartridges.

You have a nice cart, you can always have it rebuilt.