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Technics SL1200MK2 Cartridge Discussion

Hi,

I'd like to have a thread on cartridges that work with the Technics SL1200MK series tables.

I want to buy a Technics SL1210MK2 (the new black version from Musicians Friend) and need a cartridge recommendation. I am using a Musical Fidelity A308CR preamp that has MM/MC capability. My amps are Bryston 7B ST's and I have a pair of B&W Signature 800's on the way to replace my N801's. The MF Preamp is rolled off on top and the system is very listenable for long lengths of time. I'd describe it as detailed, but not too bright.

I really want to try the Technics table as it is relaible and inexpensive ($400 shipped or less for a used table if I go the ebay route). Please do not try to talk me into a different table. I had a VPI Scout and Dynavector 20x (High output) that I sold because I just wasn't using it. I'd like to keep this cheap so that I have decent TT available when and if I want to use it.

What can you recommed for a cart? I'd like to keep $160 to $200 as a max and stay lower if possible. Here is what I am considering:

Denon 103 (not the R)
Denon 110
Denon 160

Audio Technica 440 MLa

Shure M97xe

I do not know what carts work well with the Technics tonearm. I know that it is light and some threads recommend a Sumiko headshell for the Denons. What do I need to know here before buying a table and cart.

Thanks.
tigerwoodkhorns
johnnyb53
3,510 posts
 
If you go to the LPgear listing for the AT150MLX here, there is a link to a pdf excerpt of a Sensible Sound review, I have the complete issue of that magazine, where the reviewer compares the AT440MLa, AT150MLX, KAB-Concorde ProS 40, and another hybrid or two from KAB and Stanton on a KAB-modified SL1200 with fluid damper and other mods. This excerpt only has what he said about the AT150MLX, but it was clearly his favorite, and he particularly mentioned that it was more linear than the AT440MLa. He felt that the 440's plastic body may insert a bit of upper midrange glare vs. the 150.

I must mention that he was reviewing this rig for the purpose of archiving LPs to CD, so overall he might have liked the KAB-Concorde ProS-40 or 30 equally well overall, but gave the nod to the AT150MLX because its MicroLine stylus does a better job of sounding fresher when playing used and worn vinyl.
tjnindc
91 posts
 
Does anyone know if you can retip a dl 160? My twin two years olds got to it one day before I pulled the cartridge off...
johnnyb53
3,510 posts
 
08-12-08: Tjnindc
Does anyone know if you can retip a dl 160? My twin two years olds got to it one day before I pulled the cartridge off...
Maybe it's time to upgrade to an Audio Technics AT150MLX. It's about $70 more than a DL-160, has higher output, is better in every way, is a great match for the Technics arm (especially with a Sumiko or LP Gear headshell), and has a replaceable stylus that costs the same as a DL-160.

The AT150MLX has a retail price of $499 and sounds like every penny of it, but for some reason, you can get it from J&R Music World with free shipping for $249, or from lpgear and other vendors for $259. It's a stone cold bargain.

You might also want to consider an Ortofon 2M Blue.

I guess a new part of your shutdown routine will be snapping the stylus protector into place, removing the headshell with cartridge, and placing it far away from 2-year-old fingers.
tjnindc
91 posts
 
HAHAHA. I even got a case when I ordered the 160 so that I could keep it and my Goldring stored safely. sigh. Those two years olds are just a bit quicker than us 40 year olds on occasion.

I was just looking at those two cartridges. My gut says to go for the AT150MLX especially since it has that stylus protector built in. I need a second Sumiko headshell to mount the Goldring on, too. Time for an order...

And time to make the new routine, routine. Removing headshell now.
tjnindc
91 posts
 
Case Question: One more thing, has anyone found a cartridge case that accommodates the Sumiko headshell?
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