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MM Cartridge recommendation needed

I just succesfully completed a re-wire of the tone arm on SL-1200, I replaced the stock wires with Cardas litz wires. I also moded the standard cartidge mount to eliminate the cartridge leads. Now the tone wire clip directly to the cartidge and are soldered directly to the ICs. The end result is remarkable.

Currently I am using a Ortofon OM cartridge with an night club E stylus.

On my second (un-moded SL1200) I have ortofon 2M blue, this is much better than the OM but I am relunctant to remove it from its headshell and remount it. This is because it took a while to mounted correctly. I would also like to keep as a reference.

So what has this to do with my question?

I would like to have some recommendations on MM cartrdige to replace the OM. I am looking for something in the range of the 2M blue or possibly a notch above. I was considering the Clearaudio Aurum classic or Alpha.
nick_sr
nick_sr OP
263 posts
 
I checked out the link, it is definitly interesting. The thing with cartridges is that generally you can't audition them. You can't return them. They are relatively expensive, given the size. And finally if you try and sell them used, even fresh out of the box you take a big hit.

And one more thing that makes me nervous, probably the most important, damaging my record collection (rapid avoidable wear). I have a lot records to which I am emotionally attached, if they get damaged...

So really I am looking for some thing tried and true.

vinyladdict
164 posts
 
If you're concerned about not damaging your records then don't let that Ortofon DJ stylus near your records! For that matter, the Ortofon Blue isn't exactly a tracking champ either.

The fine-line microridge stylus is as tried and true as anything out there and the Jico SAS version is arguably one of the best ever made. Do some research on it here and over at the VinylAsylum. Look at those who have replaced their styli with SAS versions.

Mistracking is the primary damaging factor with records - the AT -150MLX will track very well and will sound very good. The Jico SAS-MM1 track and sound exceptionally well.
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rauliruegas
13,111 posts
 
Dear Nick_sr: All those options posted here are good ones and I only want to add this other alternative:

http://cgi.ebay.com/Ortofon-M20E-Super-MM-cartridge-M-20-E-Super-NOS_W0QQitemZ400085013949QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item5d26ecd5bd#ht_2634wt_1165

this Ortofon cartridge is IMHO a " revelation " cartridge with a high quality performance, better that we can imagine.

Regards and enjoy the music,
Raul.
analog_soul
44 posts
 
Try to listen to 2M black, it is more refined and more natural mids compared to blue. Thou, I find the blue a bit dynamic. If you like to try MC, their Dance series Tango or Salsa is a good choice.
nick_sr OP
263 posts
 
Vinyl Addict, I am aware that the OM DJ stylus stinks that is what is motivating me to buy a new one. Currently I am not listening to any cherished records with that stylus. As for the 2M blue, its no best of class cartridge, but I have properly aligned it and it tracks pretty well. Again, I know I can improve.
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