Cartridge wars

What type of sound do you like? warm, musical, analytical, extended top end, bloomy, ...?

I have a PT6 (with an upgraded cable) on an Aries clone into an Audio Innovations tubed stage . I recently upgraded from a Grado Platinum to a Dynavector 20X-H. The difference was significant, in some ways, but alike in enough others that I don't feel like I've lost that Grado midrange warmth that is so pleasing to the ear. The gains are better extension at the top ens with a much smoother presentation and finer detail all-round. Still musical though. The bass is not as prominent as the Grado but definitely tighter and still very natural.

Good luck,
Bob

Don't know what kind of music you listen to.
Don't know what kind of sound you prefer.

However, JUST looking at price here are some favourites:-
Shelter 501 Mk2
Shelter 901
Benz Micro L2
Clearaudio Sigma Wood
Dynavector Karat 17DMk2

FWIW. IMHO.

After trying several different cartridges with my VPI HW-19 Mk4 / Rega RB-900 (now RB-1000), I eventually chose the Grado Reference ($1200, 4.5 mV output). I have been extremely pleased with it. It is very quick (close to the best moving coils), has excellent tonal balance from top to bottom, conveys a nearly holographic soundstage on well-recorded LP's, and is extremely musical.

If reviews/ratings from the high-end audio mags provide a useful comparison for you, be aware that TAS lists the Grado Reference as one of its "recommended cartridges", and selected it as an "Editor's Best Buy" in the Oct-Nov 2003 issue of the magazine. The one "downside" to Grado cartridges is their susceptibility to hum induced by the turntable motor. I have not found this to be a problem with my VPI HW-19 Mk4.

TAS also recommends the following cartridges in your general price range:
1. Dynavector Karat 17D Mk2 ($750)
2. Ortofon Kontrapunkt B ($900)
3. Sumiko Celebration ($1500)

When I contacted VPI about a year ago regarding a cartridge recommendation for my VPI Aries the Dynavector Karat 17D Mk2 was at the top of their list for under $1000.

Note, the Dynavector Karat is a very low voltage cartridge. Make sure your phono stage has adequate step up otherwise you will have no volume.