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Kiseki Purpleheart

I currently have an Ortofon Cadenza Bronze. I'm thinking about a switch to the Kiseki Purpleheart.
In this price range-3K..what other carts should I consider?
Associated gear- Pass XP-17- Pass Int-60- Martin Logan Montis-VPI Prime Signature
I want to stay with a Low Output/MC...but would consider a Moving Iron.
Any thoughts or suggestions will be greatly appreciated.
krelldog
russellrcncom
318 posts
 

This is a very helpful thread and truthfully,  the PH was on my short list but no longer due to the quality issues mentioned.  The Cadenza Bronze took it's place.

FWIW My short list is:

 

Miyajima Saboten

Hana ML or Unami (a little price difference between the two)

Ortofon cadenza bronze

:

 

 

 

mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,570 posts
 

Of all the cartridges mentioned here, and there is not a klinker in the lot, the Kleos would be my pick. The only fly in the ointment would be the tonearm. @krelldog what tonearm is on your table? If it is VPI's unipivot arm I would consider changing that before getting a new cartridge. VPI now makes a gimbal arm that is a direct replacement but there are many other great arms you could mount with a little cleverness. 

kennyc
1,742 posts
 

+1 @mijostyn

Of all the cartridges mentioned here, and there is not a klinker in the lot

The differences between the carts mentioned is mostly preference rather than performance.

Based on my research rather than direct experience:

Ortofon Cadenza Bronze - is likely the most used cart at audio shows - likely meaning it's a great all round performer at it's price point.

Hana are high value cartridges line built by many highly experience relatively large handcrafted established company who also manufactures some of the very best carts in other product lines.

Purple Heart - IIRC is also a high value cart that competes with Koetsu per frugal VPI founder Harry Weisfeld

Lyra Kleos seems to be neutral, detailed, fast, and maybe quiet

Soundsmith - cheapest cartridge retipping at ~20% cost of new.  Paua seems musical.  Founder and President Peter Ledermann extremely knowledgeable and friendly.  

 

 

qantamgangavolkathalex
1 posts
 

The original Prime turntable redefined and polished with a new fit and finish and improved performance. Upgraded with HW-40 feet, 3D Gimbal tonearm, and new machined top plate with additional bracing and isolation. The Prime 21 @color tunnel is bringing 2021 in on a high note. 

pindac's avatar
pindac
2,864 posts
 

I am a Ortofon user and have a experience of listening to a variety of Ortofon Designs released since the early 00's.

With the most recent models released having elevated prices and not any Trickle Down Ranges being produced at present. I have looked towards Japan.

The Mutech Hayabusa and MSL Cart's are on Shortlist to receive demo's off.

Recently I read the review in the attachment, and have come away with the impression, this might be a very suitable replacement for a Ortofon, especially with the asking price for this model.

 https://trackingangle.com/equipment/hanna-umami-blue-cartridge-review

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