Ortofon Quintet Cartridges

Rhljazz-That's a very strong statement regarding the Q-Black, congrats on finding a reasonably priced cartridge! I'm using an AT-OC9mk2 on a Rega P9/Allnic 1200 but would like a little more fullness/body/texture/fluidity without adding coloration. Does the Q-Black have these strengths I mentioned? I was considering a Transfiguration Aixa 2(reviews are outstanding) but at $2500 there could/should be a more cost effective option. Maybe the Ortofon Q-Black is that option?

As Rhljazz mentioned above, the newest issue of the absolute sound has a review of both the Red and Black Quintet cartridges. Pretty interesting read.

The reviewer really liked both of them at their respective price points...

Dayglow, I'm not familiar with the AT-OC9 so I can't compare. I will say the Quintet black is not at all thin sounding nor does it present any shrillness. Deep bass is there when called for but never omnipresent. Last night I played Fleetwood Mac Rumours and that is the best I've ever heard that LP. The vocals were spot on and there was a strong driving beat that propelled the music forward without being over the top. In addition, it is an old LP but sounded like a new audiophile pressing!

Rhljazz-THX! Finding an affordable cartridge that has a full midrange without coloration is difficult. I was also considering the Goldring-Legacy but the treble is claimed to be slightly rolled off. With the Q-Black do you find yourself wanting more treble energy/extension?

The top end is extended but never spitty or aggressive. I just get the feeling this cartridge is happy playing music. It sounds very engaging. Crappy recordings are still crappy but at the same time less crappy than I remember them.
I am smitten with this cartridge!