Best cartridge upgrade under $100 from Stanton 500E MKII?

[laluckaryves]

Hey guys, I'm currently using the Stanton 500E MkII on my sl-1200 and I'm looking to upgrade. Overall I've been pretty pleased with the Stanton's sound but I think it's time to try something new. I mostly listen to electronic, experimental, hip hop, and classic rock. I'd like to keep the new cart under $100 but I'm open to any/all suggestions. Thanks.

 

[Stanton681EEES]

http://www.lpgear.com/Merchant2/mer...t_Code=NAGAOKAMP011&Category_Code=NAGAOKACART

http://www.lpgear.com/Merchant2/mer...t_Code=NAGAOKAJT555&Category_Code=NAGAOKACART

these are the two I'd consider. You'll probably get a lot of members telling you about the Shure M97XE but if you like your Stanton you'd probably find the Shure a little on the laid back side or bland sounding.............

 

[Slowhead]

add:
LP Gear AT95HE
LP gear Deft II
That makes 4 and someone else will fill in the usual suspects.

http://www.lpgear.com/Merchant2/mer...t_Code=NAGAOKAMP011&Category_Code=NAGAOKACART

http://www.lpgear.com/Merchant2/mer...t_Code=NAGAOKAJT555&Category_Code=NAGAOKACART

these are the two I'd consider. You'll probably get a lot of members telling you about the Shure M97XE but if you like your Stanton you'd probably find the Shure a little on the laid back side or bland sounding.............

 

[voltcontrol]

Ortofon 2M red @ 99$
(just over budget, but worth it) Denon DL-110 @139$

A choice you don't hear about to often; Ortofon Arkiv @ 57.99$
Is actually a dj cartridge, but it sounds rather good imo.

(Options I haven't used but am curious about in this price range
Sumiko (Black) Pearl, Sumiko Oyster.
And there are a lot of Grado and Nagakoa options)

I'm very curious to see how the 2M Red compares to the options mentioned by the posters before me. (also looking for a new cart sub 100$, well sub 100€ actually)

Also, which is the Deft cart? Can't find it on that site...

(What's the best EU or international address(es) for carts/needles btw?)

 

[voltcontrol]

Ps why not the audio-technica AT110E @ 70$ (instead of 95HE)?

 

[avole]

I'd go with the Denon, too. The AT120E is another good option but I prefer the Denons.

 

[KentTeffeteller]

If possible spend $129 and get a Stanton 681 EEE-S III. The other cartridges mentioned are fine, but if you love that Stanton sound (I do greatly) the 681 EEE-S III is your cartridge.

 

[Slowhead]

Ps why not the audio-technica AT110E @ 70$ (instead of 95HE)?

Nothing wrong 110E &120E, both good earners.
My two suggestions were availible from the same site as the first post. Both hyperelliptipcals, somewhat forgiving and good detail. The Deft II has a wide frequency range does well with modern type music. It is what I keep for a back-up.

 

[laluckaryves]

Thanks for the replies. I did some further research on the Denon 110 and it looked just about perfect. Then I saw it for $75 on amazon and bought it right away. What a deal! thanks for all the help! Link for those interested: http://www.amazon.com/Denon-DL-110-Output-Moving-Cartridge/dp/B000I1YLG0