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Cartridge Advice for 1970s Kenwood TT

Hi, I've got a Kenwood KP-2022a turntable, which was built sometime in the 70s and I'm looking to upgrade its cartridge. I believe this TT model was sold in Asia primarily, so I've not been able to find much information on it regarding the tonearm specifications etc.

I'm planning on using it in a second system in my home office, and would like to keep the budget for the cartridge to around $200 or less. I'm using the TT with a cheap Denon integrated amp(will upgrade eventually), Kef R300 speakers, Rythmik Audio 12in Subwoofer and have a Musical Fidelity V-LPS mkII phono amp on order. I'm currently using an Audio Technica AT95e cart, but would like to do better.

As far as sound quality, I'd like to err on the side of smoothness as opposed to maximizing clarity at the risk of harshness. Any suggestions that might be a good match for this turntable? Thanks for any help.
teflonscoundrel
tls49's avatar
tls49
1,351 posts
 
After doing some research, it looks like this was an entry level table around '73-'75. That being said, it might not make sense to spend much more than the price of your current cartridge. The Ortofon 2M Red ($99) and the Shure M97XE ($89) get great reviews.
teflonscoundrel OP
14 posts
 
Thank you for the input. I'm doing some research on the models suggested, and I think I'm leaning towards the Shure M97xe. It seems to have a lot of fans. I like the reviews of the 2M red as well, but it doesn't look as if it will fit on the removable headshell on my tonearm even with the verso version.
latinsamba1
74 posts
 
I just set my brother in law up with a KD500 paired with a SME 3009 S2 Improved arm and Ortofon 2M Red cartridge paired with a Bellari VP129 phono. I was very impressed with how good the 2M red sounds for only $100! I would recommend the 2M red or blue.
phasecorrect's avatar
phasecorrect
2,013 posts
 
I have a similiar table from the same era...I opted for a Shure M97XE and have been pleased with the results...I also came from an entry level Audio Tech cart just for a frame of reference...and have used higher end Shure in the past...the 97 is unique in that it provides both resolution and musicality...I dont find it overly warm as some have...it definitely behaves like a much higher cart...and is consistent with most Shure products in that it offers and outstanding value...one could do alot worse and hard pressed to do better for its price range...hope this helps...
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