Recommendations for an MC cart on Audiogon


I’d appreciate any input on MC carts here for sale at $850 (MAX) or below. Reading the info put out here, it’s seems only CONUS purchases can really be safe. So, I’m sticking with that. I received a George Warren tt (never letting go of) with a Moth Rega 250 (upgrading in ~6 mos) & Denon AVR 4806 (upgrading in 12-18 mos). I got suggestions recently but, the cart purchase fell thru & now the choices are different. I like things just a little tad bright.  Read a lot of carts are “mellow”, “smooth” & “silky deep” so, really looking for that.  Used is great bang for my buck & this is a safe site. People seem universally leary of eBay. No... do this instead of cart feedback plz.

thanks as always for your knowledge.
tochsii

Showing 6 responses by jperry

If compatible with your preamp I would get the Dynavector Karat 17D3 from Aris Audio. I bought a demo from Scott at Aris before and it was perfect. The 17d3 is a great cartridge and a great value as well especially at that price. 
Both Ortofon and Dynavector make a great cartridge. I have not heard the Quintet Black so can’t really comment. If you had a discussion and are sure Scott understands what you want, he will make a good recommendation.

I have heard the Dynavector 17d3. It is a great sounding cartridge, but the output is low, and it is more difficult to setup because the cantilever is so short.

Ultimately you will likely be happy with either one. I liked the Karat better than 20x2 FWIW regarding the Dynavector cartridges.
Let's have a reset on this:

From the OP: input on MC carts here for sale at $850 (MAX) or below.

Suggestion:  Dynavector Karat 17D3 on Audiogon listed by Aris Audio 
If you have a bigger budget and you like things a little bright, this is a good deal. Not my listing and no affiliation.

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lis99g8c-lyra-delos-new-cartridges
If you want to hear what your Blackbird really sounds like instead of spending $1,000 on another cartridge, get a high quality tonearm. That will make a world of difference with every cartridge.

https://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649486797-origin-live-illustrious-mk3c-carbon-tonearm/


Nice move on the Lyra Delos. Very good cartridge at a great price.

When you upgrade your tonearm in the future You will get even more out of it.

Best Regards,

Jim Perry