MC cartridge ~1000 recommendation

[sunnyday]

Hello to eveyone,

I am looking to upgrade my phono cartridge. I currently have the Denon DL301 Mk2 on my Yamaha GT-2000. It has the standard YS-39 arm with an effective mass of 22 g.

The Denon cartridge sounds very good, but it has a tendency to skip or repeat on certain records. I have changed out the headshell and tested the same record with another MM cartridge I have, and that MM cartridge did not have the same problems.

I am leaning toward the Soundsmith Zyphr cartridge, and was wondering if any one has a recommendation for my situation.

Thanks,

Michael

 

[ghamilton]

http://www.needledoctor.com/Online-Store/Grado-Labs-Statement-and-Reference-Series-Phono-Cartridges

 

[Tedrick]

http://www.needledoctor.com/Online-Store/Grado-Labs-Statement-and-Reference-Series-Phono-Cartridges

At 22 grams effective mass, you'll want a low-compliance cartridge. The Grado's all have too high compliance to work with that 'arm.

The Zephyr would be a good match, as would a Dynavector 20X2L or Sumiko Blue Point EVO III. If you can find one, a Denon DL-S1 is also a nice option.

 

[ripblade]

Zyx R50 Bloom is another option. Sound-wise it reminds me of a cross between Denon and Dynavector.

 

[jgordon]

I was very happy with my Benz Ace, which now retails for ~$900, if you can find them. I've also heard great things about ZYX.

 

[brad6285]

I have the gt2000l and have an at33-ev and I like it a lot I also ordered at33ptg/ii to see how that sounds

 

[sunnyday]

Thanks for all the recommendations. It will give me a list of items to research and narrow it down.

 

[shelly_d]

You might find this useful. Results of entering 22 grams into Vinyl Engine's resonance calculator:

http://www.vinylengine.com/cartridge_resonance_evaluator.php?eff_mass=22&submit=Submit

 

[twiiii]

I concur with the Dynavector 20 X 2 HO. Its a great cartridge with a very neutral sound. Firm bass, sweet highs, and never any sign of strain. Mine always keeps its cool.