Any word on the Blue Angel "Mantis"?

Thanks Axel/Raul - As I said I already bought the "Mantis" and, to my ears, it is the best analog reproduction I have had in my system.

I will defintely consider listening to MM/MI in the future since I am open to all options (I am currently listening digital thru mi iPOD (WAV files)/Wadia 170i/Reimyo DAC as well) - so you can tell how "open" I am in this regard.

I am sure there are better options out there - I have learned that system sinergy and balance is a critical factor to obtain great performance - and that does not neccesary mean to pour top dollars at each link.

I would like to thank all who privately or thru this thread shared their opinion, it all served to document my decision for the "Mantis".

Regards,

Fernando

Flg2001
as I said earlier, a 2.2k Mantis (snake-wood or what ever)seems a very good MC pick, and that is MC-fine in every respect.
If it was 5k as advertised by some 'operator(s)' I'd be not so sure of course.
In fact there will be very few, I any MCs at that price point giving you the performance you found.
Visit my recent post on: http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?eanlg&1200430667&&&&&st450
Starting with: "Lewm, well thank you, --" ... were I gave some impressions of mine on the odd 'MC competition' at this price point and you might be pleased :-)
Axel

Axel - Yeap - I read it last night - very informative! Thanks...

for what it's worth, I was getting ready to pick up a new cartridge and emailed the maker of the blue mantis for a price and options. He responded that he is too busy to take on new business. When asked if he would entertain new business in the future, he did not give me a clear answer as to when I could inquire.

Too bad, I was kind of looking forward to ordering one.

Chosenhandle,
hm, that 'smells' like some $$$ issue to me.
Again, if his stuff was moved at 5k then again going a ~ 2k also, maybe he is not interested in too much low profit business after all?

I'd be little surprised you'd get service for 5k...

I guess, he also has to pay the rent ---- and then he might be 'full up' with orders and good for him. Get a M20FL super for 150$ in the meantime and give the man a break to catch up with his orders :-)
Axel