Lowest priced MC thats better than a Premium MM?
I’ve only used MM’s with my Technics 1200Gr with Luxman Phono Pre. I’ve used a couple AT "540ML" series, a Ortofon black, KAB Concord with 40 stylus (very close to Ortofon Black in sound) and my current Nagaoka JT80BK (which I love). I tend to change cartriges (and keep them with headshell intact) at a point to where the stylus still has around 40% -50% life. I sometimes I switch out and listen to my older ones for a change of flavor.
I’m now wanting to try a MC however, I want to keep it under $1200 or so. An Ortofon SPU would be fun to try, however, from what I've read, I do not think its a good match for my tonearm. For my 1200GR, can anyone recommend a good MC Cartridge. I’m tempted to try a ZU modified 103r. Thoughts?
don't rule out a Moving Iron cart MI, light like a MC but the output of a MM. I find at this price point the stylus type has more of an effect than the magnet structure type. Moving to a micro line, Shibata, VDH type stylus on any of the motor types is a big step up from a conical, elliptical that's typical of most MM.
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@lewm + 1 - dunno if there are many 'cheap MC's' that are on a performance level with my Clearaudio Charisma MM. Good question, though, as I'm interested in getting a headshell with an MC or MI just for a change of pace.... |
MI cartridges can be low output, like an LOMC in output V, or high output, sort of like a lowish output MM. Most or maybe all of the vintage MI cartridges can drive an MM stage with ease. So too can the Nagaoka MP500, SS The Voice in high output version, and some Grado. Unlike the case with MC cartridges, the high output types can be just as fantastic as the low output ones. Acutex 320 and B&O MMC1 or MMC20CL (where MC stands for Moving Cross, the shape of the iron that moves) are some of the finest sounding MI cartridges extant. So there should be no stigma associated with high output MI types. Whereas I have never been able to love a HOMC type. These are my opinions based on listening in my own home system, only. |
