Many years ago we have clarified that Clear Audio MM generators is actually an Audio-Technica, if you will search for the Virtuoso then you will find an old posts by Raul and Nandric. If you're considering an MM cartridge that is actually not in house production by Clear Audio, but an OEM by well regarded Japanese brand, then why not look for the top Audio-Technica MM cartridge ever made? Their second from the top has MicroLine stylus, Gold-Plated hollow pipe Boron Cantilever, Ceramic base, Dual Magnet etc. The name of the cartridge is AT-ML170 from 1988 and on the linked page you can read more about it. Another killer MM cartridge is the Victor X-1 with Shibata stylus, Beryllium Cantilever, i got NOS (never used) in original box for my fellow audiogonners if anyone interested.
Upgrade from clearaudio concept MC cart
The clearaudio concept MC v1 cart is the lone holdover from my previous system (well, other than the dual rhythmik e15 subs) and I’m curious as to how much more I can expect from the following carts or carts in similar price ranges. The one cart similarly priced to the concept is the audio Technica Art9 but everyone just raves about it being the equal of carts double its price so it’s in the running.
Let me say too that the concept mc is no slouch and having been retipped by needleclinic it may be even better than before. I am enjoying my stereo more now than ever but we always want to eek out that last bit of quality.
Current system:
philharmonic bmr speakers
rhythmik e15 subs x 2
van Alstine Synergy amp
nuprime dac10 (pre and dac)
musical surr. Nova II phono pre
Nottingham 294 w/ 12" ace space arm
boston audio mat1 (platter mat)
clear Day double shotgun speaker cables
audio art ic3se interconnects
gik room treatments
carts im interested in:
AT Art9
Charisma MC2
Charisma Ref 1 or 2
Kiseki Blue NS
Ortofon Cadenza Bronze
Clearaudio Charisma v2 MM
Let me say too that the concept mc is no slouch and having been retipped by needleclinic it may be even better than before. I am enjoying my stereo more now than ever but we always want to eek out that last bit of quality.
Current system:
philharmonic bmr speakers
rhythmik e15 subs x 2
van Alstine Synergy amp
nuprime dac10 (pre and dac)
musical surr. Nova II phono pre
Nottingham 294 w/ 12" ace space arm
boston audio mat1 (platter mat)
clear Day double shotgun speaker cables
audio art ic3se interconnects
gik room treatments
carts im interested in:
AT Art9
Charisma MC2
Charisma Ref 1 or 2
Kiseki Blue NS
Ortofon Cadenza Bronze
Clearaudio Charisma v2 MM