Hello all, I have a Thorens TD 125 MKII (with Marantz 2270 and Rogers LS7 speakers). I would like to gradually upgrade the turntable. I have had it professionally serviced. This TT has it's original TP 16 tonearm. When I bought it, it was in bad shape, and had a ADC XLM cartridge that appeared to have a badly worn stylus. I ordered a Jilco replacement (because I couldn't find an original replacement). But when I had it serviced, the old TT tech said it was the wrong cartridge for this tonearm, said it was 'bottoming out'. He put a Shure M91ED on it. It sounds pretty good, though a little shrill I would say. It definitely does not sound smooth. I would like good detail, but not at the expense of a smooth, un-fatiguing sound. I am ready to make the next upgrade. I would consider putting an SME M2-9 on this TT, but would then have to hold off on an expensive cartridge for another year+. If I get the M2-9, I think I would put the old ADC cartridge on it it see what that sounds like. (I would also consider an SME 3009). I'm intrigued by this classic ADC cartridge. But I am considering keeping the TP 16 tonearm and just putting a higher-end cartridge on it. I have read varying opinions on this tonearm, some saying it is underrated, if it is properly serviced and set up. I will let the expert do this - he has 30+ years experience. But he is telling me that it may be possible to fit either an Ortofon 2M, or Grado on this tonearm, with headshell modification. I'm curious about the Ortofon 2M Bronze. I'm also curious about the Denon 103R, or a Grado. So... My real question - Should I fork it out for the SME M2-9, and maybe but the old ADC XLM on it for now till I can afford something else? Or put the Shure M91ED on the M2-9? or do I just go with the best cartridge upgrade I can for the TP 16? What will give me the most bang for the buck. And any other recommendations for TP 16 cartridges?
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