2. analog
  3. 1109045595

benz ref 2 or sumiko celebration

hi currently own the benz, but it's in for repair, and i have the celebration for a loaner. i love it, and i've read some very flattering things about it. i'm running it with a vpi scout/jmw-9 table/arm combo. i have a tube pre and a ss amp. i listen to mostly acoustic jazz, folk, classic rock, everything except for classical. so should i keep the benz, or trade it for the sumiko? my ears tell me sumiko is the way to go hear, but maybe it's not the match with my rig as the benz is. or maybe it's better?

would love to hear opinions. thanks.
sberger
Ag insider logo xs@2x
rauliruegas
13,123 posts
 
Dear Sberger: The Sumiko Celebration is a " killer " cartridge. It is the century bargain. It is a top music reproduction performer and compete ( shoulder to shoulder ) with cartridges that are in the 3K to 4K prices.

With out any reservation: keep the Celebration.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.
sberger OP
146 posts
 
thanks raul. i think i probably will.
reb1208
518 posts
 
Sherber, does the Celebration produce a more transparent sound than your Benz. And are the highs open clear and extended. I find the Benz cartridges lean towards bass power and rolled off highs. Something between a Benz and the Japenese "house" sound would interest me.
lugnut
1,190 posts
 
I've commented here previously about the wonderful attributes of the Celebration; especially at it's price point. I'd go with what your ears are telling you and never look back.
More to discover