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Budget MC cartridge for a Rega P3 &Supratek Syrah?

Hi All,,
I think I've decided to stick it out with both analog and my Supratek Syrah, and that means that my current AT 440ml MM cartridge just won't cut it, I need a moving coil. On my short list are, a Denon 103R, a Dynavector DV10x5, and a AT 109C. Which of these would you recommend or is there something I'm missing. I'm on a very tight budget, I'd really like to keep this under $200. Also I have no idea how to install a cartridge, but luckily I live nearby Deja Vu Audio, Vu is very cool and has done repairs for me in the past and I'm sure for a small fee they would do the setup for me. Does this sound like a sound plan? I'm all ears. For reference the rest of the system is a pair of Cary 300B Sig monos and a pair of Alon Lotus SE MKIII's. Thanks.
128x128jond
restock
831 posts
 
I used the DL103 on my Rega Planar 3 as well. It is a great combination on the P3. The DL103R is even better than the basic version.

Other cartridges I tried are the Elys, which is not even close to the Denon. The Kontrapunkt A I have works well with my Michell Tecnodec setup, but sometimes I am in the mood for something more lively sounding and switch back to the DL103R.

Also I noticed a significant improvement for the DL103 on the P3 when I installed the Heavyweight.

Good luck,

Rene
creativepart's avatar
Ag insider logo xs@2x
creativepart
154 posts
 
Another great cartridge in your price range (well, pushing it about $90) is the Audio Technica OC9MLII. This is a great MC cartridge and sounds great on a Rega. I've used both the AT OC9MLII and the Denon DL103R on my Rega P25 and its a virtual tie for really great sound. I love them both. You can find the AT for $289 here in the US and the 103R for $259 from audiocubes in Japan.

Paul Green
c123666
871 posts
 
The Dynavector will work and sound very good. The Dynavector DV20X (high or low output models available) is materially better and a very fine cartridge but it costs over 500 (525?).
jond's avatar
jond OP
5,750 posts
 
Thanks for the advice guys. It looks like it's going to be the Denon based on recommendations, availability, and price.
twl
3,251 posts
 
I agree with the above comments about adding the "Expressimo Heavyweight" counterweight, and also the HiFi tonearm mod with the Denon. These will noticeably improve the sound over the stock arm, with that cartridge particularly.
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