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The Trouble with Cartridge Recommendations

I am having an issue with cartridge recommendations. I understand that the best scenario is to test carts in my system with my music in my room. This requires a pretty outstanding relationship with a dealer who has multiple carts on hand. Short of that, is to purchase through a dealer who can recommend a cart and support his recommendation with a fantastic return policy.

Problem is, with the internet at my disposal, I can purchase slightly used carts, demo models, NOS, off shore imports at fractions of the cost of going through a dealer. The up shot is my money goes A LOT further. Problem is, there is no more guaranty that it will suit tastes and existing gear...

Which brings me to this forum and a plead for recommendations based on the collective array of experience.

Let me introduce myself. I have been primarily listening to records for about 15 years and been taking it pretty seriously the last 5-6 years. I love open baffle speakers and well designed tube amps. My friends consistently have very high priced hi fi set ups so I am aware of fantastic analog reproduction. But I need to be more creative with my budget to get the most out of a dollar.

Music tastes are hard pin point. I have about 5-6 records that represent my main tastes and NEED to sound fantastic for me to be happy, the artists are: Nick Drake, Syd Barrett, OutKast, Jesus Lizard, The Dirty Three, and The shangri-las...

My system (which I enjoy and would like to keep as is):
VPI Classic 1 (standard)
PS Audio GCPH (phono stage)
Eico HF81 (fully rebuilt integrated amp)
GR Research V1 (OB speakers with Servo Sub Bass)

My ideal cart throws a huge sound stage with fantastic dynamics. Detailed low end with impact and smooth treble. I like a pinpoint centre image. I can give up the most precise detail and accuracy for pleasure and engagement.

Keeping in mind that I would like to do this on a reasonable budget is key. I will be searching for any deal I can find once I narrow my search. My short list is:
ZYX R100
Dynavector 20x
Benz Glider
Shelter 501 (901)

So thanks for reading this, and please let me know what you all think. I will certainly respond with any further info and I will also try to contribute myself to re-pay the advice I get here.
srbedard
srbedard OP
21 posts
 
Thanks,

I will only buy used from someone I trust. Or who is referred by someone I trust. Been burnt in the past too.

I am currently running a Denon 103 Midas. I love the flavour and I will likely keep this cart forever (bedroom system), but the short falls are now way too obvious for me.
manitunc
795 posts
 
Those are all decent cartridges for what you are looking for, but I would substitute the dyna 17d3 for the 20x if you are looking for dynamics.
As one who buys used cartridges all the time, I have never had one arrive DOA or die in my possession unless I did something stupid and broke the cantilever, which has happened exactly once. given the savings, I would never buy new. either I am just lucky, or used cartridge fears are overblown.
srbedard OP
21 posts
 
I have a line on a new-old-stock Zyx R100 high output for sale. Great price. Just hesitating right now...

I think I need something higher output than the Dyna 17d3. The PS Audio phonostage has good gain, but the old Eico does get a little noisy if I turn it up to loud. I think 0.3mV output is my floor.
hifiharv
351 posts
 
17d3 was the Dyna I was refering to in my previous post. Sounds like you may not be able to use it either. Or, can you? What do you others think? I don't know the PS phono myself.
srbedard OP
21 posts
 
Currently running the Denon 103 with 0.3mV output -- I don't think I can go any lower. The PS Audio has a gain range up to 66dB which is sufficient for LOMC but the low power integrated amp is then the bottle neck. ...i think.
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