The 10 Best Affordable Phono Cartridges to Upgrade Your Turntable: Editor’s Choice 2023
-
-
I wonder if the Hana or Grado would be much of an improvement over my Denon 304…
-
I’m sure there are a million cartridges left off your list, but I believe the real bargain you missed is the AT-OC9XML. Where else can you get into a MC cartridge with a boron cantilever and microline stylus housed in a milled aluminum body for about $549? Purchased one last month for my SL-1200GR, and it sounds quite amazing.
-
Why can’t my Shure V15 Type V MR last forever!? Wah, wah, wah….
-
I would choose the Dynavector first as it will sound great on the most varied LPs. The Denon 103 in a ceramic body is awesome but the standard inexpensive version here is a second choice for vivid presentation. I have a Dynavector 10X2 as a back up cartridge in case of an accident on my main rig (modified SMEIV, modified VPI TNT VI).
-
I currently have a Pro-ject Carbon Evo tt with a Sumiko Ranier cart mated to a Denon AVX-2700H receiver. Not overly happy with the sound on my old vinyl. Getting some mixed ideas from Audio Advice. One says to update the stylus to the Moonstone, another says adding a phono pre-amp will give the most noticeable affect, another says upgrade cart to Ortofon 2m Bronze. Thoughts? TIA
-
What do you think of the Rega Exact?
-
went from a grado sonata to a soundsmith zephyr and feel that despite the large price increase that it was worth every penny. it is mounted on a vpi classic tt and running through a rogue sphinx, and I’ve never enjoyed my system and music collection more than I do now.
Dave E.
September 20, 2021 at 1:32 pm
The Dynavector is a good choice for most turntables. I like the Grado “woodie” line better but they really need an arm with a lot of inertia else imperfect records make the arm quiver with audible artifacts. Will likely buy a Hana SH for next cartridge because nude mounted and shibata matters… seen too many solder mounted stylii that just fell out from normal use.