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Cartridges <$150 - Suggestions for Symphonic Enjoyment

Goodday folks,

I had picked up a Yamaha P-350 belt drive TT w/ a new Grado Black a year and a half ago real cheap. Lately, I'm finding myself listening to it less and less because of the horrible distortion of high frequencies during loud passages in symphonic music (my usual preference). So much harshness there...

I'm wondering how I can clean up the high end? I'm thinking of getting a cartridge for under $150. I'd like something > 2mV output so I can use the phono stage in my reciever. Some I have considered are:

Grado Platinum (USED) - wow, what a smooth contrast to my cart!

Sumiko Pearl - pretty neutral and balanced, could be smoother in top end

Benz MC20E2
Audio-Technica 440ML
Ortofon X1MC
Shure M97XE
- (haven't heard the last 4)

I will be upgrading the TT in the next year to something serious, so I would also consider a cart. in the $250 range (even if RIGHT NOW it would be overkill for my TT). I could save a little longer if that would be more worthwhile in terms of quality & sound - maybe a Sumiko Blue Point or Shure V15?

Thanks guys!


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Topic - Cartridges <$150 - Suggestions for Symphonic Enjoyment - chillysalsa 06:47:41 09/7/03 (9)


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