I started with a Grado Prestige Gold, then jumped to a Koetsu Black, tried a Reference Sonata and a Benz Ruby when the Black required a retip but eventually tried a Statement Statement and haven't looked back. No hum from any of the Grados I have tried and I find that Grados maintain the PRaT and warmth of the Koetsus without the sometimes glassy etchings of MCs.
Your setup is similar to my own: Gorbe to full Orbe these days with a SME V. I am constantly charmed my the music I hear. The higher you go in the line, the more detail retrieved, particularly among the Statement series. These approximate a MC sound without what some consider drawbacks. After having listened to various multi-thousand dollar carts in various astounding setups, I don't think I would ever buy anything other than a Grado or Koetsu, given my preferences.
Your setup is similar to my own: Gorbe to full Orbe these days with a SME V. I am constantly charmed my the music I hear. The higher you go in the line, the more detail retrieved, particularly among the Statement series. These approximate a MC sound without what some consider drawbacks. After having listened to various multi-thousand dollar carts in various astounding setups, I don't think I would ever buy anything other than a Grado or Koetsu, given my preferences.