Audio-Technica AT-ART9 phono cartridge

Installed my ART9 a week ago. It took forever for my Grado w/MCZ stylus to reach its decline stage. Have about 60 sides played and it is wonderful. My TT is a VPI Traveler Ver 1. Still searching for the correct VTA settings, for thin records. I found the sweet spot for 180/200g. Totally impressed so far. Smooth, precise and powerful are my adjectives. 

Do you own any mono records? The ART-9 is great at playing them. 

Probably have a 25 or so. Have played one of the Beatles mono reissue. Really livened up SPLHCB and going to play the 45 rpm version of "Surrealistic Pillow" soon, when I feel like changing sides every 8 minutes. Looking forward to it. 

Had a listening session with an audiophile friend tonight and the conversation eventually came around to the ART-9.  The consensus was that the ART-9 never draws attention to itself, but just simply disappears.

Right now I am listening to "Tracker" by Mark Knopfler. The cartridge is so well balanced top to bottom with only the slightest dip in midrange execution, but then I am used to a Grado's forward midrange. It keeps getting better with every listening session. During "Basil" the acoustic guitar is sublime. Can't wait for the 150 hour mark. 

Thanks for the recommendation guys!