Audio Technica VM540ML v. N97xe Jico SAS

Not a complete answer to my question, but the AT would be a go for me.

Sorry Viridian, trying to find out the capacitance of the Mani, doesn't look like it has it directly? Perhaps it's in the details here?

Gain 1 = L, Gain 2 = L (Decca Mode)
Gain: 30dB
THD: <0.005%, A-weighted, at 1V RMS
SNR: >90dB, A-weighted, inputs shorted
Crosstalk: -75dB, 20-20kHz
Sensitivity: 9mV for 300mV output
Overload Margin: >20dB

Gain 1 = L, Gain 2 = H (Standard MM Mode)
Gain: 42dB
THD: <0.008%, A-weighted, at 1V RMS
SNR: >82dB, A-weighted, inputs shorted
Crosstalk: -75dB, 20-20kHz
Sensitivity: 2.3mV for 300mV output
Overload Margin: >20dB

Input Impedance: Selectable 47 ohms (typical for MC cartridges) or 47k ohms (typical for MM cartridges)
RIAA Accuracy: +/- 0.2dB, 20-20kHz
Output Impedance: 75 ohms
Topology: Fully passive RIAA network with ADA4897 and AD8066 gain stages, thin-film resistors, and film capacitors throughout
Power Supply: “wall wart” style 16VAC transformer, regulated +/- 5V rails
Power Consumption: 4W
Size: 5 x 3.5 x 1.25”
Weight: 1 lb

Hi bstat -

I have a very similar set-up as yours ... Technics 1200GR (the new 1200 series) with the AT VM540.  the Stereophile review pointed me towards this cartridge.  Amp is a Rega Brio R, Parasound Zphono preamp, and Omega Compact Alnico monitors.

The AT does a nice job.  A lot of cartridge for the money.  The AT does require some break-in though, so be prepared.   Not sure what cartridge you are changing from, so I can not add too much more.  

I know the Mani pre has a series of switches that you can set for the  cartridge.  So you should be good to go.

Rich 

Coming from a Shure M97xE. You think I will notice a difference?

Yes, you will notice the difference.  I never quite grew to like the 97XE, I actually preferred the SC35C in the Shure line.  The 97XE was a little too closed sounding for me.    

Rich