Since your phono stage apparently has gain enough for an MM or MI cartridge, but not a LOMC (Low Output Moving Coil) type, I would recommend a top notch MM or MI cartridge. Sound Smith make a line of MI cartridges that have a good reputation, but you need to be sure the output voltage is sufficient to drive your MM stage. (MM cartridges generally put out about 3 to 5mV at the standardized stylus velocity of 3.54 or 5.0 cm/sec. Whereas MI cartridges often produce closer to 1-2 mV at the same standard velocity.) Nagaoka, Grado, Clearaudio, Audio Technica, and others I cannot conjure up at this moment make fine MM cartridges. I use any of several "vintage" MMs, including Grace Ruby and Acutex (which is actually an induced magnet type). I am currently comparing my Acutex LPM320 to a newly acquired Audio Technica ART7, which is an LOMC type. The ART7 is very highly regarded, and I like it too, but the Acutex gives away nothing to the ART7. Lately, I am tending to prefer the Acutex, but the ART7 is not fully broken in.
Happy with digital, but thinking about vinyl--looking for system specific recommendations
I just upgraded my dac to the Chord Qutest which seems perfect for my system. And in the months between that order & its arrival, I also found a great deal on a Croft Micro 25R (already had the basic 25 preamp). Since it has an allegedly excellent tube MM phono stage, it seems a shame to not make use of it at least occasionally. I don't have much experience here, so I'm hoping for some ideas of what might be a good match to my system (ProAc Studio 148 speakers, First Watt M2 amp, Cardas Neutral Reference IC's & Anticables 3.1 speaker wire), preferably the least expensive turntable/cartridge option that's still good enough to make me want to actually not just click 'play' on Tidal. Thanks.
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- 16 posts total
- 16 posts total