How good is the Benz Mrico LP-S and Ruby 3 really?


Hi,
How many have tried the above 2 cartridges and find them to be preferable over other high end brands (please state brand/model)?

I like fast incisive, dynamic, good sound stage imaging sound. I am currently using a Ortofon Rondo-Bronze. On theory, I'd like to move up the Ortofon chain or onto a Lyra Skala or Titan, but they are out of my reach. However I can get a good deal on Benz Micro. Btw, what phono-stage does the Benz Micro go well with?

Forget about cartridges that only do well in only certain areas. I like an all-rounder! ;p

Your suggestions and opinions please, thank you!
hamburger
I recently bought a Benz LP from the UK dealer who was offering a discount. I have'nt used many High end cartridges, but it is clearly the best I have had in my sydtem, precisely because it is a neutral all rounder. Good detail, soundstage, good stage depth, imaging and even across the frequency spectrum, with particularly good base. The main difference from the Zyx Airy 3 I had before was in drive and dynamics. It is just more musical, the Zyx is dull in comparison, neutral also, but with no drive to the sound. I loved the Koetsu Rosewood Signature I had before, but it certainly was'nt neutral. So I am more than happy with the LP.
Dear Hamburger: You can find and improve for what your Rondo in the MM Ortofon Line, Clearaudio or Nagaoka MM cartridges.

IMHO the MM alternative is a high quality performance on the same MC league.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.
Dear Smholl,
My set up is a Kuzma Stabi Reference TT and 4 point arm. I have the Rondo-Bronze for 3 years. It's a good all-rounder cart, but now I am itching for a better all rounder.

Dear David12,
What phono-stage do you partner with the Benz LP? Good to know you are enjoying it!

Dear Rauliruegas,
That's new info to me. Which MM do you think is "better" than the Rondo-Bronze or I should try out?

Thank you.
Hamburger I use a K&K audio phono stage, you can look at it on the companies website and search on Audiogon threads. I have been through countless stages and this is the best I have had in my system by a long way. That includes Tom Evans, Clearaudio reference. I recently arranged a phono stage shoot out at my house. The K&K was a clear winner. Very good value in kit or ready built form. I know Raul builds his own and he hates transformer based MC step ups and the K&K uses Lundahl transformer step ups, so he probably wo'nt approve.
david12, I have a K&K as well and remember Keith mentioning that his favorite cart was the Benz LP. Something that I will have to try when the time comes.