So, after finally getting the Technics 1210MK2 I've wanted for so long, I come to find out my new-to-me deck has a busted tonearm. Go figure! Thankfully this gave me a new reason to start the process of upgrading my deck, one piece at a time. I went through and ordered a Jelco SA750D as well as an ebony armboard, and the TTWAudio VTA mod for the arm. I also have Isonoe isolation feet on the way, and am in the process of designing my own external power supply based off the original one.
Unfortunately for me, when I sold my last turntable I could not find my "cheap" cartridge to include with it, so I had to part with my Shure M97xE, or deal with not selling the deck. Because of this, I am now in the market for a new cartridge, but don't quite know what to keep my eyes open for.
I have read several places that the Denon DL-103 with the Jelco arm is an astounding match, but in going all out on the deck, I would think itd be smart to "future-proof" my choice in cartridge. I was looking at the Soundsmith modified DL103s and thought they seemed like a reasonable deal, but at that price point, I would almost be interested in their Zephyr MKII/Zephyr MIMC cartridge, as they has low compliance and good words said about them, and I also believe I wouldn't need a step up transformer to have them work with my Cambridge 651P. I also considered going back to the Shure with one of the fancy Pink/Green Jico styli for it, but I didnt think it would bode well with such a heavy arm, and I have heard the fluid dampening on the 750D can be sketchy at times.
Obviously there are hundreds of other carts out there, which is why I turn to you who have been buying carts, decks, etc for longer than I have been alive for insight (lol). I am trying to stay around the $1000 mark (+/- a bit), and also trying to stay with my current phono stage. Any and all input is appreciated, and thanks in advance!
Unfortunately for me, when I sold my last turntable I could not find my "cheap" cartridge to include with it, so I had to part with my Shure M97xE, or deal with not selling the deck. Because of this, I am now in the market for a new cartridge, but don't quite know what to keep my eyes open for.
I have read several places that the Denon DL-103 with the Jelco arm is an astounding match, but in going all out on the deck, I would think itd be smart to "future-proof" my choice in cartridge. I was looking at the Soundsmith modified DL103s and thought they seemed like a reasonable deal, but at that price point, I would almost be interested in their Zephyr MKII/Zephyr MIMC cartridge, as they has low compliance and good words said about them, and I also believe I wouldn't need a step up transformer to have them work with my Cambridge 651P. I also considered going back to the Shure with one of the fancy Pink/Green Jico styli for it, but I didnt think it would bode well with such a heavy arm, and I have heard the fluid dampening on the 750D can be sketchy at times.
Obviously there are hundreds of other carts out there, which is why I turn to you who have been buying carts, decks, etc for longer than I have been alive for insight (lol). I am trying to stay around the $1000 mark (+/- a bit), and also trying to stay with my current phono stage. Any and all input is appreciated, and thanks in advance!