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Cartridge Recommendation

Kong

Kong

Active Member
Hey folks, I welcome your thoughts.

I am looking to replace my aging cartridge for my Pro-jekt Expression II TT. My price point's around $300. I have an old Denon AV receiver (the DRA-35V) running Vandersteen 1C speakers.

Thanks much guys.

Keith
 
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I'll vote for the AT 440MLa--great cart well below your budget and you'll stll have enough $ left to pick up an inexpensive external phono stage (like an ART DJ), killing two upgrades for your buck.
 
Unless there is something else you're looking for, I'd suggest considering a replacement stylus for your existing cartridge.
 
ghamilton said:
I have the Vandersteen one speakers also. What I use is the Shure M97Xe body with the SAS stylus from LP-gear. I'm very satisfied!:yes: Here is the link for the stylus....
http://www.lpgear.com/product/SHN097xESAS.html
...and the cartridge...
http://www.lpgear.com/product/SHEC03.html

The price is in your range too.:thmbsp:
Click to expand...

I heard good things about the SAS stylus. It always leaves me wondering if the total cost (assuming you don't have a M97xe) is justified when compared to cartridges that run about the same price. What is your experience? Right now I have a Denon DL-110 which is in need of replacement.
 
Thanks folks...

...I'll be reviewing all these recommendations and noting your comments.

Thanks for taking the time.

Keith
 
Another good choice would be the Denon DL-110 HOMC cartridge. Its high output allows you to use it interchangeably with a moving magnet phono input.
 
I'll be boring a bit -

Try the Grado Prestige Gold1 - it's wonderful! I'll say try the Reference Platinum1, which is even better, but "Grado sources" here say that the Gold+8mz stylus is as good and cost less :)

Also try the Ortofon M2 Blue - it's well into your budget, planned to work with your arm, and sounds really REALLY good.
 
Denon 301 mkII ? Not sure if your Denon amp has MC option. My Denon PRA runs MC with a couple options. Denon on Denon seems somehow poetic...

If no MC option on amp, I second the vote for HOMC Denon cartridge as well with a few bucks left in your budget of $300.
 
Thanks...

...for all the recommendations. You guys took the time to respond and share your thoughts. I'm going to take these various options and read up on them. I cannot audition each one, so reading about the various models is the next best thing I can do. I'll make a purchasing decision from there.

Thanks folks!

Keith
 
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