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basis 1400 belt & cartridge

I got a basis 1400 handed down from a friend but w/o cartridge and belt missing.

What's a good cartridge to go with this TT. Don't want to spend more than $ 250. 'Have a Rega P3-24 with AR 440 MLa which I quite like. Anyone tried it on the 1400? Was thinking about getting a Grado Gold?

Also, I need a belt. Anyone know what the exact length of the belt is so I can order a OEM replacement?
I am sure the original basis belt for $ 125 is great but am looking to spend a lot less. Any recommendations.

Cheers,

Flo
flo
pops
2,275 posts
 
Great table, I used a sumiko blackbird with mine but it is more than your budget. I would consider something in the ortofon line as they have some really nice cartridges at real world prices.
chazzbo
1,007 posts
 
Yeah that Sumiko B.Bird would be nice but Grado $300 would do.Second the Rega at price point you want to pay.Denon DL series are over performers.
Chazz
cmalak
681 posts
 
What tonearm does your Basis 1400 have on it right now? Cart recommendations without knowing the tonearm is a bit dicey. You want to make sure you match cartridge weight and compliance with effective mass of the tonearm.
flo OP
2 posts
 
Cmalak my Basis 1400 currently has RB 250
cmalak
681 posts
 
Flo...sorry I also forgot to ask what phono stage you have? Can you consider MC carts over and above MM carts based on your phono or no? If only MM or High Output MC, a good fit with your arm and your phono would be:

(1) Sumiko Blue Point (list $299 but you should be able to get it closer to your budget with a discount). Nicely reviewed cart and good value for the money. When matched with your arm, you get a resonant frequency of 9.59Hz which is pretty close to being smack inthe middle of the recommended range of 8-12 Hz. This is a MM cart.

(2) Ortofon 2M Blue (list $199). Also nicely reviewed cart. When matched with your arm, you get a resonant frequency of 8.1Hz. Also MM cart.

(3) Grado Gold 1 Prestige (list $220). When matched with your arm, you get a resonant frequency of 8.5Hz. Also MM cart and nicely reviewed.

Good luck
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