Respectfully seek some arm+cartridge advice


First off, thanks to all the wonderful advice flowing thru this forum.I have finally upgraded from my Phase Linear/GAS amp system and joined the audiophiles of the millenium - including back into vinyl.

I purchased a vintage GyroDec with an SME 3010-R and also an upgraded Scout with the JMW-9. Both will need cartridges. I've read what I can (my wife thinks I'm ignoring her) on cartridge selection but don't have a strong sense of what works - which I suspect means most all combos "work", the question is "how well".

So as a neophyte, how do I select a cartridge I will love? I now know MC has a lower voltage output but I think I'm ok there. I know to select a cartridge compatable with the arm's weight - but how?

I figure the simplest thing is to(unnecessarily) spend a lot of money or just ask what everyone's using - which I welcome if they're on similar equipment.

I don't want to spend thousands and I am frugal - so "used" is fine. I need 2 different cartridges and I'd like to keep it under $1,000 yet be happy.

My equipment is decent including a Lexi MC-12 pre, Theta/Dreadnaught amp plus a couple of tube amps and a Mcintosh amp. I purchased a Musical Fidelity phono pre-. Speakers will be Hyperions for HT and I have B&Ws and Definitive Tech's. I have rarely "loved" digital music and I tend to Pink Floyd, Alan Parsons and Rock 'n Roll of the 70s but also classical and jazz.

What I'd love is a primer on what to do if one exists. Failing that, any recommendations welcome - I don't mind trying a number of options and reselling what's not right.

Cheers all,
Kevin
arbrnrngr
Ouch!maybe Raul can buy me a cartridge. I just ripped the cantilever out of a rand new benz glider. At least I only paid half price. It's back to the mini system.
Ouch, sorry to hear this, Gregadd.
I just ripped the cantilever out of a rand new benz glider.
Rushton, thanks. The silver linnig is that I was thinking about more exotic cartridge. It also Rauls the chance to make another cartridge reccomendation.
I'll do it for him:

Shelter are garbage, except 90x. Denon are garbage, except DS 1. Sumiko Celebration better than anything junk ZYX Shelter or Denon garbage except 90x & DS 1. Get rid of stinking tube equalizers.

Relax and enjoy the music.
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Joe,
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You would advise differently if you had heard a ZYX UNIverse cartridge. I am quite sure it is the best cartridge you have ever and possibly will hear at any price.
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Rgds,
Larry
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