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Which MM Cartridge for under a grand

Hello. I am a new member to Audiogon and am seeking some adivce. I have a vintage system consisting of a Pioneer SX1980 receiver, Teac X2000 reel to reel, Klipsch Belle's and most recently added a Pioneer Series20 Model PLC-590 turntable. It is set up with the Pioneer PA1000 tonearm, with an aftermarket headshell by Orsonic. Ive installed an Audio Technica 440ML cartridge that I was previously using on my Empire 698. My listening style is varied but mostly classic rock from the 70's. Now I'm looking at new cartridge's and would like to be in the 5 to 7 hundred range. Given that you guys know just about everything with regard to turntable setup and I know just enough to get myself in troublecould someone please make some recommendations. Any feedback will be greatly appreciated. Looking forward to becoming part of your community. Rick
35off
beewax
173 posts
 
Soundsmith designed & manufactured products in USA. Many cartridges under a grand.
lewm
12,864 posts
 
I think the Soundsmith offerings at or below the $500 level might please you, but so too would any number of vintage MM cartridges, made by Acutex, Grace, Nagaoka, AT, Signet, Grado, Astatic, AKG, etc., and for well under $500, probably under $300. At those prices you can often find top of the line vintage MMs. A Clearaudio cartridge, purchased new, would not have nearly as much bang for the buck, IMO.
fleib
1,124 posts
 
Before making a move you should try a 150MLX stylus on your 440. Allow about 5 hrs to break in the suspension. The difference is dramatic.
schubert
7,386 posts
 
Flieb, serious question.
I'm not a rocker but I did sell a lot of hi-fi in the 70's.
My memory is that saying rock pressings of that area were lousy would be kind.
I agree a 150MLX stylus would be a big jump if you were playing Brahms on a minty Erato or Phillips .
Do you really think it would do anything on vintage rock?
chakster's avatar
chakster
6,144 posts
 
hi 35off, welcome on board.
Why not read 11821 post in Raul's "Why we need MM ..." thread ? LOL

You can be an expert in MM cartridges under one grand too, so many information and knowledge already there (posted). Or you want to start all over again ?
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