LO MCs carts with RM-9/Shindo pre?


I'm a relative vinyl newbie currently running a Pro-ject RM-9 with a Blackbird. Rest of the system is a Shindo Monbrison, (usually, now) Fi 45 monos, and Lamhorns.

I am captivated with this sound and have no reason to change anything, but am interested in trying MC carts. I would like some advice on what would be worthwhile to try with the RM-9 and the Shindo (which has a tranny MC stage). Other than the Koestsu Black, I have nothing else in mind at this point (and I don't know if this cart is a good fit with the Monbrison or not).

As I said, no weaknesses to the system, but if I could nit anything I would say that the bass is a bit round. It's not with CD, so I know it's the analog front-end. Just a might pudgier than I'd prefer (but only on some stuff - Village Vanguard is one, and the CD version is tighter). Also, while very detailed and dynamic, it's not the last word in microdynamics. The microdynamic nuance is what mainly has me interested in MC carts.

If there is anybody that thinks it's not worth it for me to try MC I'd like to hear that too. I've never heard any MC cart, much less a good one.

Budget is around $1200 used max (not sure if I'd buy used or not either).

Paul Folbrecht
Norvinz Field Rep
paulfolbrecht

Showing 2 responses by goldeneraguy

Paul,Wise choices.I havent heard a Merrill table in many years
and the Triplaner 6 and 7 are top notch performers.The Graham 2.2 is not that far behind and being you already own it....
You now will have a 2 channel set up that could compete with the best out there.
Enjoy your new system and the RMAF
Paul,excellent choice of electronics for your Lamhorns
However I dont believe a low output cartridge by itself will
will get you to where you want to go.A better TT can help with bass presentation.Naturally the arm will play a big part in your cartridge selection.The Pro-ject arm can not support nor do justice to a SPU.Also without knowing the gain of your
of your tranny or of any load adjustments you can make it is very hard to make any suggestion.Again,your electronics and speakers are top notch and can give you much more with a improved front end.Good luck in your quest.