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Buying a New Cartridge

I have my choices narrowed down to four cartridges.

1. Grado Reference Platinum
2. Ortofon 2M Blue
3. Audio Technica AT440MLa
4. Denon DL-160

I like the idea of the nude diamonds on the AT and Ortofon. In addition, I am currently using a Grado Green and tend to like the Grado "house sound", however, I wouldn't mind a change either. I would like to hear your opinions on which of these would be the best choice. I will be using it into a restored Scott 299(A) with a restored phono section. I say this because I would like to hear as much detail as I can since I will get some good natural warmth from the amp and phono section.
128x128hyperreal
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tigerwoodkhorns
130 posts
 
I used an AT440 on a Technics 1200 table. It was muddy, dark and difficult to listen to. I repalced it with a Denon Dl 160 and a heavier headshell. Much much better, more natural and dynamic. Very good for the money.

I mounted the Denon 160 on a Rega P9 with 1000 arm. It was off and not quite right. I then added the 3G accessory weight and it really shined.

Zu had some really good prices (1/2 off) on their modified Denon 103R's right now. $300 entry fee, but you will need to buy or build a step up transformer. If you rebuilt the Scott yourself the SUT will be very easy for you. I am building a few right now for a friend and for me.
philjolet's avatar
philjolet
2,306 posts
 
I had the AT440MLA and it offers great extension and detail with nice balance but had a quality that I did not especially like "mechanical" comes to mind

My Audio Note IQ2 (modified Goldring) trounces it -
at more than double the price...
stanwal's avatar
stanwal
3,147 posts
 
The Denon 110 is both cheaper and better than the 160. I have had both and this is also the opinion of HI FI Choice in the days when they did serious testing. I currently have a 110 in use with my Scoutmaster.
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