Music Hall MMF 7.1...cartridge options?

I bought a used MMF-7 (not the 7.1 w/ the carbon arm) about a year ago as my first entry into vinyl. I got it for $650 here, and it was the best thing I did in a long time. I then replaced the Grado Green that was on it with an AT150MLX (again found here for $200) and it is just lovely. I like the previous advise about a good quality phono-pre. That is probably as important as the TT.

One other piece of advise I would add. Get a digital force gage (either here or ebay for not more than $55), download alignment protractors from vinylengine or vinylasylum and learn how to use them, and finally, invest in a good RCM like a Nitty Gritty or VPI.

As always, JMHO YMMV

I have owned an MMF-7 for a couple years. The first thing I did was buy a Herbies TT mat, nice sound quality improvement. Then I got rid of the Eroica HO cart and put on a slightly used Benz Glider HO. That wasn't just a subtle difference, it was dramatic. That's when I finally started to really enjoy what vinyl's all about. Next was adding the Project Speed Box mK II. I cannot stress enough how important it is to have electronically controlled speed. IMO a must have on any TT. And changing 33.3 to 45 RPM at touch of button is sweet. This was another significant upgrade. Just a week ago I received a Rogue Stealth phono pre, Magnum version. Once again a giant leap in sound quality. So I would recommend not getting the Eroica and put on a cart that works with your phono stage. A Benz Glider HO (2.5 mV) will work with MM phono stage and you won't need to change the stock counterweight. Then upgrade as funds come available to you.

Hi, M,

I've been using a mmf-7 with the Pro-Ject 9 aluminum arm for over four years and haven't gotten the upgrade bug yet. (I actually have two mmf-7 'tables.) I did upgrade cartridges though. The Eroica isn't a bad cartridge and if you can get one included for less than $200 it might be worth it. Depends on whether you've got the extra cash to buy a separate cartridge that's equal to or better than the Eroica/2400 and what your phono stage (preamp) can accomodate. I now run low output moving coil cartridges (my preference) but keep the Eroica around as a spare/emergency cartridge.

I agree with Ehaller about the Herbie's mat; it improved overall dynamics and tonal balance and reduced surface noise with my setup. I wasn't quite as impressed with the Speed Box; it may or may not make a big difference. If you have good clean power you may not notice a dramatic improvement, but it is a nice addition.

I also agree with the others about a good phono preamp. It will make a big difference if your current phono stage is on the lower end of the spectrum. And like Tgrisham and Ehaller, I eventually spent about the same price for a phono stage as I paid for the turntable. I started out with a Jolida JD9 and still use it, but the Rogue Stealth is my preferred phono preamp.

The mmf-7.1 with the new carbon arm seems like a good deal compared with other turntables in its price class.

Have fun!
Tom

Agree with Ehaller and Tketcham . . . I have virtually the same set up. MMF-7 is a pretty good turntable for the money. The arm is the only weak link. The herbie's mat is a great upgrade. The speedbox is a great upgrade as well - made a positive, audible difference in my system, and it's really convenient if you spin anything at 45 rpm. I am also using a stealth phono preamp, it beat out a jolida JD9A by a good margin in my system as well. I'm running a dynavector 10x5 and pretty happy with the sound. MMF-7.1 is probably a little bit better with the carbon fiber arm tube, but the basic arm mechanics look pretty (or completely) similar so I wouldn't spend the extra money. A used MMF-7 is a good value. Haven't listened to any goldring cartridges so I can't comment.

Thank you for your feedback. I went ahead and ordered a Music Hall 7.1 w/ the Goldring 2400 (better deal than the combo w/the Eroica) and a Herbie's mat..that should be a good starting point. As far as the pre, I'm using a Belles 28A so it has a built-in phono section. A friend of mine used the Belles with his Nottingham table w/ satisfactory results...though I didn't grill him on specifics. I am most curious about the cartridge, as the Dynavector 10X5 has been mentioned here as well as by some folks I spoke with at a very reputable analog store here in Minneapolis. I already have a Gingko Cloud platform, and I see from an Analog Focus article in the March issue of Absolute Sound, the platform, if weighted correctly, seems to be an added plus. Thanks again!