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Cartridge comparison for best match

I have a VPI TNT IV but with Aires feet. I am using an Eminent Technolgy 2.5 tone arm with the high pressure manifold. The table sits on a Vibraplane table which in turn sits on the VPI stand. I have enjoyed a VdH Black Beauty Cartridge for over 10 years. I am using 2 Krell KPAs in balance mode as my phono preamp. I am looking to upgrade my cartridge but have not followed the technology so am trying to get up to speed. I have read about the Airtight PC1, Black Diamond, Benz Micro Ebony LP, Dynavector XV-1s, Lyra Skala, Clearaudio Goldfinger, VdH Colibri, and VdH Condor. Comparisons and advice welcomed.
128x128krc
thomasheisig
568 posts
 
I tried a few with my AirLine, Transfiguration Temper, Lyra Skala, Zyx UNIverse and a few others. I think, most work well, but those below 10gr work best, it is huge difference in all Frequency Areas, more, air, more bass, better definition, better separation etc.
hamburg
69 posts
 
You may also want to consider the Shelter 9000. I am using it on the TNT6 with 12.6 arm. Soon to be reviewed at the 10Audio Site.
jaybo
4,478 posts
 
a retip perhaps, since you have a classic cartridge.
krc's avatar
krc OP
16 posts
 
Thank you for the responses. I will look into both the Universe and Shelter as well. I have indeed sent the BB off to VdH to be repaired and refreshed. But somehow I would think that technology has make significant progress in the last decade and while still a classic it has been surpassed by the newer breed of cartridges. Jaybo, do you think this is true?
krc's avatar
krc OP
16 posts
 
I incorrectly identified one of the cartridges in the start of this thread as the Black Diamond. It should have been the Magic Diamond. Any input on this cartridge would be appreciated. I seemed to be leaning towards the Airtight PC1 or the Magic diamond. Any opinions on this comparison? Thanks.
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