Benefit of low output moving-iron Grado ?

Swapping the Sonata for the Master should be pretty painless as far as setup goes. It could need rebalancing though, as there are fewer turns of wire in the low output Master and the older Sonata bodies were a variety of Mahogany whereas the newer model 1 Grados are denser Jarrah wood and probably weigh more.

If I were buying another Grado, I'd think very seriously about getting the VPI 1.5mv output version, seems likely to be a good compromise that splits virtues of both versions.

Thanks again, particularly Photon. The 1.5mv version isn't listed on Needledoctor's website, but I read an old forum elsewhere (from 2003) that they've "not discontinued them yet". Presumably this means I could get the retip price at N.D. AND get the 1.5mv version, which sounds like a reasonable idea.
I have found out that the settings on the Grado Ph1 are simply "low" and "high", with some confusion about which setting to use for a 1.5mv cartridge (it apparently depends on whether the 1.5mv cartridge is considered high or low output!). I wonder if a lack of gain-setting increments might cause a 1.5mv cartridge to hum?
Also, after reading my turntable's instructions, Music Hall recommends having a professional install anything other than what the factory installed. There is a screwplate through which the screws pass on the top of the headshell. Perhaps this screwplate moves around, and WOULD move around once the screws were removed? Maybe I could remove them gently without disrupting the position of this screwplate? I am worried I would mess it up... and I have no protractor or anything. I do know an audiophile who passes through my town sometimes, I could ask him to help if you folks think I should. I AM a novice.
Also, indeed my cartridge is .5 gram lighter than the newer Jarrah wood models, so the rebalancing you mentioned would be required - this I think I can handle.
Positive news: the retip price is fully $80 less than what I thought it was. Realistic news: time to start saving for this stuff. Thanks, Nicky

Seeing that the phono card in your Exposure sold for $269, I doubt a $500 stand alone Grado phono stage would be much of an improvement. More likely a lateral move. If your heart is set on trying a Grado phono stage, I'd call Grado and ask for their advice. They are very approachable and happy to chat in my experience. Still, my gut reaction says that a high output Grado in a Master model will give you a low hassle factor and good bang for the buck IF you are going to stick with the built in phono card in the Exposure. The move to low output cartridges is a pivotal moment in the evolution of analog addiction. Problems with equipment matching rise, sometimes exponentially, in exchange for the subtler insights low output cartridges can bestow. With regard to improving your analog chain, if you live away from dealer support, you basically either have to settle for what your turntable came with or accept that you'll be rolling up you sleeves and learning to do turntable setup for yourself. There's lots of help for analog addicts online. Get MIchael Fremer's "how to" DVD, watch YouTube videos. You can download very serviceable free protractors online, just do a Google search. EnjoyTheMusic.com has a good one to get you started.

"Sound" advice, Photon. Until I'm in a position where amp upgrades are feasible from top to bottom, it seems clear I should stick with the high-output cartridge realm of analogue enjoyment. When it comes down to it, the Sonata has always sounded banging through my Vandy 3a Sigs, and a new, DEPENDABLE cartridge would breathe new life into my system. I am glad you are able to frankly and wisely share your experience with me in our comparable situations (though it looks like your system rocks pretty darn hard). And as far as the setup goes; you're right - the only thing I have to fear is fear itself.
So I suppose all my questions are answered, and perhaps I'll check in again, or send you a personal note once I replace the cartridge. Peace, Nicky

Bad writing skills, Nicky. What I meant by "dependable" was a modest upgrade (the high-output Master) which would be SIMILAR to what I've got and have been happy with (the Sonata), without gambling on a new phono stage. Whew...