VPI Scout ...with Shelter 301 or Grado Sonata??

If you do go Grado, to match the preamp, use one of the lower outputs if you can adjust your gain. The Statement Series is around .4mv and there is a VPI run out there at 1.5mv( I own a VPI Sonata). they are suppose to sound better b/c of the smaller coils(less wire). Haven't heard Shelter so I can't compare. Or you could get a step-up to play those lower ohm MC's.

Just pick either one and be happy. Unless you move to Shelter 501MKII then you will be very very happy!

Oh, btw,,,I chose the Dynavector DV-20X...works great!

I'm not sure either of your choices is the ideal compliance match for a JMW-9. (I know if you ask VPI about a Shelter they'll tell you it's a great match. If you ask them tomorrow about a Grado they'll tell you the same thing. Apparently they think they're created the world's first universal tonearm. Caveat emptor.)

I'd suggest something with higher compliance than a Shelter but lower than a Grado. Jsujo's Dynavector suggestion is one possibility. A ZYX RS30 is another. If you're hankering after that Grado warmth, a Benz might suit your tastes without risking Grado's two known faults, exceptional susceptability to humming from EMI and early suspension breakdown leading to the ever popular "Grado dance", a/k/a "Grado wobble".

Doug mentions what is more important in your choice than matching to your preamp - matching to your arm. The Dynavector mentioned may be the best way to go, see if you can audition one.

As far as the Grados go, the hum source (if experienced at all) can generally be rooted out and addressed. Personally, I don't think the Grado "dance" has so much to do with suspension breakdown, at least in the sense that it would be seen as an inherent weakness in build quality. These Grados should be mounted on a lightweight arm and they will sound very nice, indeed. Mount one on a heavier arm and you might be ticketed for a dance card and THAT is what also could lead to the breakdown that Doug mentions. Otherwise, there are folks with Grados on lightweight arms that experience very long life cartridge life.