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Analysis Paralysis on Phone Stage and MC Cartridge

There is so much information to pore over and try to make an informed decision on the purchase of a Phono Stage and MC cartridge. So, I’ll look for this communities help in point me to an informed decision.
Some parameters that may help you with your recommendation. I have a Clearaudio Concept turntable that I will use. It currently have the included MM cartridge that came with the TT. Price I’m willing to spend is $1200 for each. I listen to classical and rock. Not a jazz fan. However, I do like Amy Winehouse’s’ recording’s. If the TT is NOT up to the performance for the amount of $1200 for the phono stage and $1200 for a MC, then please, I’m willing to spend less. :<) Thanks for any input.
old_marantz
old_marantz OP
19 posts
 
BTW, I'm all for buying used EQ here.I like country music also.
dover
2,253 posts
 
Hi - The phono stage is easy - check out the EAR834P Classic or Signature ( 900 & 1200 ) on audiogon. Covers MC/MM and is good enough for a turntable upgrade later. It has a very easy and musical sound. With regard to cartridge I would stay with a moving magnet as I dont think the arm is good enough for an MC. Check out the Clear Audio Virtuoso. The Soundsmith cartridges are quite nice as well. I would not buy a second hand cartridge, your records are valuable and you never know the condition of second hand cartridges.
manitunc
795 posts
 
Simaudio LP5.3 for about 800 used, or PS Audio GCPH for about 5-600 new on sale.

Cartridge - Lyra Delos about 1100 slightly used, Ortofon Kontrapunkt B - about 7-800 used, Dynavector 17d3 about 800 slightly used.

Enjoy.
old_marantz OP
19 posts
 
The Clearaudio Concept TT can be purchased with a MC, so I assume the arm is good enough for that type of cartridge. I do appreciate the response.

If my AMP Already has a built in phone stage, is adding a phono stage for a MC needed then? I was getting the impression that a phono stage would still be needed for MC.
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