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Cartridge Recommendations

Recently broke my Clearaudio Virtuoso and looking for a replacement. Instead of spending 575 for a replacement I am considering a different cart. My modest system:

VPI HW-19jr w/upgraded platter
Jelco 750 arm
PS Audio gcph

Currently using a Denon DL-110 as my backup. Was thinking maybe trying the Denon 304 or Denon 103R or and upgrading it but not sure if I need a step up transformer? Should I stick to a MM maybe the Ortofon 2M black?
nhs
bifwynne
2,206 posts
 
The Ortfon 2M Black is a very nice cartridge. Used to own a 2M myself. Only comment is that I found it bright and analytical, but many others have raved about it. If you liked the Virtuoso, you will LUV the Maestro. One of the best cartridges I ever owned -- just couldn't get it to work on my Classic.
rsimms
150 posts
 
I just got a Denon DL-S1 this week and am blown away by the cartridge. I have been lusting after one of the Lyra cartridges but no more. This Denon easily blows out the AT OC9ii cartridges that I have had. My OC9 easily bested the Denon 103r. The Denon DL-S1 has a low output, but your phono preamp has 60 db of gain which is supposed to be good enough. If you can run it with differential gain, your phono preamp has 66 db of gain which should easily be enough.

Bob

PS I am running my Denon with tubes that might color my recomendation.
Ag insider logo xs@2x
rauliruegas
13,015 posts
 
Dear Nhs: Good that your Virtuoso broken because you have a great opportunity to re-tip with a better cantilever/stylus that the stock one that's not really good.

The Virtuoso Wood motor IMHO is an stellar one and when you make that re-tip no one of the Denons ( including the DL-S1 ) could beat it and many of the top LOMC ones neither.

Of course you can go with other cartridge but to be near the Virtuoso Wood re-tipped maybe you have to invest over 4K for the cartridge alone and you need to change your phonoline stage and your TT too.

Regards and enjoy the music,
R.
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