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cartridge Benz, Koestu, Lyra

I have a Scout with a Benz Glider H2 currently, running through a AR PH5 phono pre. I am looking to upgrade my cart. Would a Lyra Helikon be overkill and would I have a problem with anti skate? I have heard the Koetsu Black and loved the airiness. Would a Benz woodbody give me any of that air? It's really difficult to listen to diffrent carts, plus they are always on a diiferent rig. I am probably going to buy used.
Any advice/suggestions would be appreciated.
Jeff
jdodmead
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rauliruegas
9,123 posts
 
Dear jeff: I think that there are many cartridge options over the Glider and this depends on your budget.

My advise is that till you own a very top rate phonolinepreamp stay with a " middle " top cartridge that are really good performers, example: Sumiko Blackbird, Sumiko Celebration, Lyra Dorian, Dynavector 17D2, etc, etc.

Now, you could buy second hand but like John posted it is a little risky. Btw, there are very good cartridge rebuilders but like Jonathan posted the original cartridge source has some advantages about.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.
rwd
695 posts
 
Hi Jeff..John is righ on... the Helikon is not an overkill. The benz is warmer (not as much as "very"-just a bit). Have a go at it. They both work very well in my 10.5 arm

Rick (RWD)
jdodmead OP
241 posts
 
I appreciate all of your advice, I have made a deal on a Koestu Black. I hope I made a good decision.
Raul,
Are you saying my weak link is the PH5? I would have thought it would be the Scout.

Thanks
Jeff
rwd
695 posts
 
Good choice, Jeff! Enjoy!

Rick
Ag insider logo xs@2x
rauliruegas
9,123 posts
 
Dear Jeff: The Scout is very good TT. I have experience with new and old Koetsu's but I don't know how better match your tonearm.

About the PH5: I think that if you go to the cartridge " big league " ( top performers ) this phono stage is not up to the task and will be your very weak link.

regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.
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