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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
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.
jperry
1,408 posts
 
I currently have in use a Shelter 901 and a DV 17D3. I would recommend both.
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