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Back-Up Low Output MC For My Arkiv B?

Any suggestions on a back-up, low output MC cartridge to replace my Arkiv B when it goes in for a rebuild? It would go on an LP12/Ekos. Phono pre is a Pass XONO, so looking for an output of no more than the Arkiv's (0.4), since this is almost too much for the Xono in MC configuration with all the attenuation jumpers installed....Budget would be $ 500 or less (ideally less). For that price point, I guess a Denon 103/104, several Ortofons, and several Dynavectors might fit the bill, but I have no experience with anythin other than Linn carts (Klyde, Arkiv)
alexc

Showing 5 responses by viridian

viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Denon 103D or 103R is an incredible choice, .25mv and only half the budget. You can e-mail me and send me the other half as thanks.
Marty
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
The lower the compliance, the higher the resonant frequency of the arm/cartridge resonance (this is modeled just like a spring). Fortunately, there is a broad range of acceptable arm/cartridge resonant frequencies. The medium mass Ekos is well within the operating range of the Denon, Shelter and Ortofons mentioned above and, from a resonance standpoint will provide a good match. This spec is certainly not as great a concern as bearing integrity when dealing with relatively low compliance cartridges. You are good to go.
Marty
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Tom, user name TWL, is the expert. He posted earlier in this thread, e-mail him directly.
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Carl, is that the one with the conical stylus, or the elliptical stylus? Thanks for the info.
Marty
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Tom, I should've just contacted you directly. As usual, you are a font of knowledge and I really appreciate your input. I think I will be looking to replace my 103D soon. It is actually a line contact stylus, I believe. I don't share your appreciation of the conical stylii, but I have had really good luck with my Koetsu Black, which is a simple elliptical, I think. Other ellipticals have worked well in my system also. Do you know if that 103S is still available? Thanks again.
Marty
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