Shure M97XE or AT120E cartridge for NE sound

something else to think about....when you play around with enough different configurations of turntables, cartridges, amplifiers, speakers etc., you start to see that some really well work together and some don't. That is to say...one man's mx97e does not necessarily sound as exciting or accurate on another man's rig....
 
I own both and I used to be one of the folks who called the M97 boring. I use an AT PL120 as a general purpose vinyl preview an trial table. I also spin 78's on it.

The M97 is a superb tracker, especially with the brush down. It's quite happy on that table. They both have about the same level of surface noise sensitivity, the M97 might win here by a hair. I started looking at the amount of time each spends on the end of the arm and the M97 wins by a wide margin, especially when previewing used vinyl.

I have come to respect it enough that I'm having my SA-8800 repaired and serviced so I can have variable cartridge loading and can get to where Catman is. If there is that much left in the cartridge, it might be the best deal around? It is certainly worth the money :)

Another cartridge you might be interested in is the AT95Sa from LPGear. I suspect I'd take it over a bone stock 120. I have a 95, but not with the Sa stylus so I can't speak directly to that, but it gets really good reviews and strong support.
 
I have them both and while I personally prefer the sound of the AT120E, I have yet to see the cartridge that tracks as good as the M97XE. The Dynamic Stabilizer brush is awesome on slightly warped records. They are both very good cartridges but based on the music that you listen to I would definitely suggest the AT.
 
Thanks again, everyone. I've decided to go with the AT120E. I was able to locate one for $69. It should be here in a few days - just in time for my birthday. I'm sure this is only the beginning as all of these suggestions have me thinking about Christmas!
 
Good one mate. I'm sure you'll find the AT120ET excellent. However if the opportunity arises to grab an M97xE, get one for comparison purposes! Regards, Felix aka catman.
 
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