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Micro acoustics 2002e Cartirdge and upgrade bug

Hello, I got back into vinyl about 7 years ago and largely have used Micro acoustics 2002e cartridges. I can't remembered how I aquired my first one but I've become accustomed to what I think a fine sound from this cartridge. At the time, it was very highly regarded. I have heard, in other systems, other carts of the likes of the upper-end Grado wood bodies and Shelter 9000 and a few cheaper carts, and I have always felt the 2002e has held it's own against these. Now after a few years, I want to explore new territory and wanted to see if anyone here has had time with the MA 2002e and if they've compared it to other carts. What price range/quality of "modern day" carts would I need to spend to get comprable sound?

I have two phono stages at my disposal: Pass Labs XOno and Dynavector P75 II.

Any input is much appreciated.
aliu2
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rauliruegas
13,103 posts
 
Dear Aliu2: A cartridge decision means which budget we have. Top LOMC ones are pricey.

I concur with Dorkwad especially on the Grace F9E and the Clearaudio Virtuoso.

You can take additional cartridge links here on what I posted in other thread:

http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?eanlg&1271818969&&&/Best-Cartridge-under-$1000-00-for-Rega-7

yes all those cartridges IMHO performs better that your Micro Acoustics.

Regards and enjoy the music,
Raul.
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rauliruegas
13,103 posts
 
Dear Dorkwad: Btw, I have not heard in deep the CMMM III but only by brief " moments " but I trust in your opinion about.

regards and enjoy the music,
Raul.
siniy123
166 posts
 
I don't know about this particular model OP is asking about. But I have Micro Acoustics 630MP with thin beryllium cantilever and nude linear contact tip. It is fastest and most resolving cartridge from my stable. And I have quite a few MM/MI carts discussed in the parallel thread. I also have quite a few TOTL MC cartridges from 70s-80s. It is very fast with exemplary tracking, really hugs the curves with least overhang. The only criticism I can attribute to it to be on gray-scale side on palette. But when when my "digital" friends coming to hear something intensive like White Stripes "Elephant" album I always put it as ultimate in resolution and speed. it is not lacking in smoothness, oomph and goosebumps either.
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