2. analog
  3. 1054608027

MC Cartridge upgrade from Grado reference?

I need some advice on a cartridge upgrade. I currently have a Grado Staement Refence (.5mv) and would like to try a good MC. I was thinking the Shelter 901 would be the one to go for. I then started reading here on Agone and I am finding out it may not be the best match for my tonearm/TT. Any suggestions for 2k or under? The Helicon, for instance, seems to be held in a little less esteem than it once was (especially compared to the Shelter). How about Koetsu, ZYX........... (or stick with Grado (Statement????))

Current rig is: VPI Aries, JMW 10, ARC Ref. phono
cmo
tlieb
12 posts
 
I had pretty much the same rig as you (since upgraded to TNT HR5), and found the Benz Ruby a very nice upgrade. Like the Grado, warm and inviting, but with loads of detail. You can get it for $2,000 with ANY trade-in (e.g., any old, cheap cartridge you have lying around -- no need to give them your Grado).
twl
3,251 posts
 
I'd go with a ZYX R-100 Fuji for $2k.
4yanx
1,576 posts
 
So would I, IF I had the 2K. :-)
cmo OP
471 posts
 
Can anybody tell me about any of the new Koetsu's? Are they in the same league as the ZYX, Helicon, or Shelter's (for the $$$)? I have reservations about the ZYX, although I have never actually seen one, it doesn't look that well made. Any thoughts would be appriciated.

Also would a Koetsu work with my JMW?
twl
3,251 posts
 
The Koetsu cartridges have a certain charm to their sound that puts them in a category by themselves. They are very good cartridges, and some people will only want the sound of a Koetsu. Others feel differently. They are expensive, and you have to pay a pretty high ticket to get into the Koetsu club. I am one that likes the Koetsu sound.

To find out if a Koetsu will work on your JMW arm, call VPI and ask them.
More to discover