Bottom Rung Koetsu..

I use the Koetsu Black with a Rega 600 and Michell gyrodec...I am quite happy with the sound. Have also heard good things about the Shelters but have not listened to one in person.
Good Luck!

In its time--a long while ago--Koetsu Black and Denon DL 103D were considered roughly equal. You can buy a new 103D for $229, which I see as a great bargain. I got a second one, 20 odd years after my first, and enjoy it as much as my Koetsu Rosewood Signature in another system. Email me for how to contact Denon if you're interested.

Tom, I also use a DL103 in my system. I agree with your assessments. Many times, however, people cannot believe that a low priced cart like the DL103 can compete with something like a Koetsu. And sometimes they just want that name brand recognition. Also, he doesn't tell us what his tonearm is, and we both know how tough the DL103 is on arm bearings. The Koetsu and Shelters are a little easier to manage at 9 or 10 in compliance than the DL103 at 5. It is one stiff mama. But I love the sound of mine. I use a Origin Live Silver 250 arm and it handles the Denon real well.

Twl, your comments are on point with respect to having not mentioned my TT/arm. It is a Nottingham Spacedeck/Spacearm. I, for one, have no problems with achieving sonic pleasure at a good price. Name brands be damned if there is a suitable "giant killer" to be had.

I appreciate these other suggestions and welcome more. I listen to jazz, classic-rock, and blues in about that order of frequency. I like detailed, extended top end, transparent midrange for vocals, and a tight, punchy bass (NOT "BOOMY", though - I just HATE when that happens). I should add that I briefly auditioned the Koetsu Black on MY TT/arm at a local delaer's shop and found the Koetsu to have amazing detail and timbre on the top end, but slighlty lacking in bass, for my taste. Of course, the bass could well improve upon break-in - the cartridge I auditioned was "cold-out-of-the box".