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Basis Vector cartridge recommendations

Looking for some advice from the analog experts for a cartridge, running a Basis 2200 signature, Vector 4 tonearm with an Allnic 3000 phono stage, CJ Premier 14, Mac 501 amps and all Kubala- Sosna cabling. I have used an ortofon jubilee for 7 years or so and thinking about a change. short list:

Ortofon cadenza black - slightly concerned it might be too revealing with my Thiels and music preference - classic rock, blues, jazz.....

Ortofon bronze
Transfiguration Proteus
Lyra - never have moved me but limited experience

Any suggestions would be appreciated since auditions in my room are impossible. Thanks.
pops
pops OP
2,275 posts
 
Thanks John, your wealth of experience and council is always valuable. I would say my budget is no more than 6K. I did forget to mention MSL on my short list because AJ is so high on them, but I know very little about them other than brief reading on the net.

It is confusing with seemingly endless options! I would like to make a choice that I can live with for a while but it almost seems like a shot in the dark. I got lucky with my Jubilee, I have enjoyed it for several years.

Congrats on your system, I know you've got it humming!

Cheers,
Jerry
chayro
2,996 posts
 
I just installed a NOS Transfig Orpheus in my Vector 4 and it is astonishing compared to the Spirit. While the Spirit was good, the Orpheus is like taking a step closer to the musicians. More lifelike presentation, but without harshness. I would highly recommend one if you can find it. I purchased mine at Ears Nova for a reasonable price and I am very pleased with it. I believe they may have a couple more. I do believe that all the Trannys work well in Basis arms, so you certainly won't go wrong with any of them, IMO.
ebm
9,311 posts
 
The Transfiguration Proteus is very musical with wonderful stage width and depth the best Transfiguration i have had them all.Enjoy!
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,470 posts
 
Cadenza Black too revealing??? That's what we audiophiles pay for. I'm using an Orofon Windfield which is a bumped up black....I like it. I came from a Benz LPS. The differences aren't that great...LPS a bit more lush, Windfield more open. If I hear an orchestra in 2 different venues, those sonic differences are very much greater
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
I agree, I do not know much about the MSL carts at all outside of the fact that A.J. loves them.

I do agree with Chayro and Ebm, you cannot go wrong with a Transfiguration cartridge. Eminently musical, yet not is a warm, syrupy sweet way, more in an organic, natural way. Of those that you mention in your OP, the Proteus would be my choice.

Keep us posted.
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