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Analogue Synergy....Which is the best Cartridge?

I'm getting back slowly into vinyl with the hopes of upgrading my Linn Axis/Basic Plus tonearm in the next couple years. I recently acquired the PS Audio GCPH phono preamp for my system because I thought it offered the most flexibility in terms of upgrading into a wide variety of cartridges. I'm currently using the Linn K9 cartridge.

I want to upgrade my cartridge next and am looking at the following:
Sumiko Blackbird
Shelter 501
Benz Micro Glider
Clearaudio Virtuoso Wood
Dynavector Karat

I've not personally heard any of these cartridges (only read the reviews) but I'm leaning towards the Shelter 501 primarily because it seems to offer the most bang for your buck.

Given my current Linn Basic Plus arm, which cartridge would allow me the best match for my current system. My upgrade path will likely include the VPI Scout with Signature 9 arm in the future.

Can any audiophiles out there with knowledge about cartridge output, tonearm mass, and phono preamps suggest a good match for me? My associated electronics include Aesthetix Calypso, YBA Alpha 2 amplifier, and mentioned earlier, the PS Audio GCPH phono preamp.

Another question, some cartridges have lo, medium and high outputs to match with a wide variety of phono stages. Are the lower output cartridges supposed to sound better?

I would appreciate your input!
Thank you!
calgarian
calgarian5355
calgarian5355 OP
146 posts
 
OK...assuming I end up purchasing the VPI Scout with the signature 9 arm, would the ZYX Bloom be a better choice of cartridge vs the Shelter 501? The Shelter is a bit more expensive than the ZYX Bloom. I've not heard many cartridges, but a refined, seductive midrange is one of the most important characteristics I'm looking for. From what I've read about the Shelter, this is where it excels. How would the ZYX R50 Bloom compare?....or would I have to move up to the ZYX R100H or R100 Yatra/Fuji to get the performance of the Shelter 501. Any comments would be appreciated.

Calgarian
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
The JMW-9 is a downgrade from your current Linn Basic Plus. If you decide on VPI, mount your Linn or upgrade to something else. The Shelter or Zyx will love you for it.
lacee
811 posts
 
I have the Scout and though I can't say this is the best cartridge it sure is the most hardy- a 25 year old Fidelity Research FR1 mk3f,still ticking after a twenty year sleep.It bests the Grado Platinum I had been using.
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