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MM cart. Recommendation

I have an Oracle Alexandria with Sonus Formula IV tone arm and a Graham Slee Gram Amp 2 SE. I am presently using a Sumiko Pearl Cartridge and am looking to improve. Nothing lacking but I figure there must be better. The 44db of gain in the Graham Slee keeps me in the MM or HO MC camps.
Grado cartridges seem to be my best choice from looking through the archivves but am open to suggestions.
Budget could extend to the $300.

Thanks
stuartbranson
mt10425
1,138 posts
 
I just replaced my Grado Gold with a Shure V15VxMR. The difference was startling, especially in terms of detail without sibilance, tracking and depth of soundstage. I took the advice of another Audiogoner and contacted Jack's Music Factory. I had a brand new cart at my door shipped for $199.00. It's a terrific cart for about $300.00, but for around 2 bills, it's a steal. It's on an LP12.
karl_desch's avatar
karl_desch
446 posts
 
I would consider the Linn Adikt. All around good performer in the MM zone.
stuartbranson OP
183 posts
 
Dopogue, could you explain what you mean by "high compliance" in regards to matching my tonearm and cartridge?
The Shure sure sounds like a good choice.
dan_ed
2,451 posts
 
I'll second the Shure V15VxMR. Really hard to go wrong with this cartridge and you get the added benefit of being able to remove the stylus without removing the whole cartrige. I found this of great importance when cleaning, moving or modifying anything on the table.

You may also want to consider a Dynavector 10x5. I have not heard one but the 10x5 seems to be preferred by many to the Grado.
c123666
871 posts
 
denon dl160 is a good choice for under 200 and an excellent high output moving coil
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