AT ART-9 vs Audio Note IQ3

So, Invictus, apparently you have listened to both the ART7 and the ART9 in the same system, on the same (SME V) tonearm, and you conclude that the ART9 is superior.  Can you say more, in more detail, about why you prefer one vs the other AT cartridge? Do you own both?

I'm going to return the cartridge.  No sense in risking there being unseen damage or wear to it.  Surely banging around inside a fairly big hard plastic case is not great for something so delicate that is built under microscope.  Disappointing to hear someone else had the same issue and amazing that AT doesn't tighten the nut a little more or put some Loctite on it!

You're certainly within your rights to return it, but I doubt that it's really been damaged.  Nevertheless, the possibility would play on my mind, too.

ART9 good move. I would like to give a thumbs up to Mr Thakker, I bought a ART9 and within a month hit the cantilever with my five thumbs and bent it to the left he said send it to him and he would see what he could do. Four to six weeks later I had a new cartridge for the cost of shipping. That is one of the best experiences I have had in this hobby!