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Technics SL1200MK2 Cartridge Discussion

Hi,

I'd like to have a thread on cartridges that work with the Technics SL1200MK series tables.

I want to buy a Technics SL1210MK2 (the new black version from Musicians Friend) and need a cartridge recommendation. I am using a Musical Fidelity A308CR preamp that has MM/MC capability. My amps are Bryston 7B ST's and I have a pair of B&W Signature 800's on the way to replace my N801's. The MF Preamp is rolled off on top and the system is very listenable for long lengths of time. I'd describe it as detailed, but not too bright.

I really want to try the Technics table as it is relaible and inexpensive ($400 shipped or less for a used table if I go the ebay route). Please do not try to talk me into a different table. I had a VPI Scout and Dynavector 20x (High output) that I sold because I just wasn't using it. I'd like to keep this cheap so that I have decent TT available when and if I want to use it.

What can you recommed for a cart? I'd like to keep $160 to $200 as a max and stay lower if possible. Here is what I am considering:

Denon 103 (not the R)
Denon 110
Denon 160

Audio Technica 440 MLa

Shure M97xe

I do not know what carts work well with the Technics tonearm. I know that it is light and some threads recommend a Sumiko headshell for the Denons. What do I need to know here before buying a table and cart.

Thanks.
tigerwoodkhorns
tvad
9,467 posts
 
I wouldn't spend too much. I suspect you will be quickly advancing to a significantly more expensive turntable/tonearm/cartridge if the rest of your system is any indication.

With that in mind, I have found the Benz Micro Ace moving coil cartridge to mate well with the SL12xx. Otherwise, I'd look into an Audio Technica AT150Mlx if you'd rather have a moving magnet cartridge.
radioheadokplayer
173 posts
 
I was thinking even less than the benz micro ace....either the denon dl-103 or audiotechnica ml440a. Are any of these easier or harder to install on the mk5 technics for a newbie?

michael
tvad
9,467 posts
 
They all install the same way, regardless of price.
tvad
9,467 posts
 
The absolute easiest cartridge to install on a SL12xx table is one of the audiophile carts offered by KAB. You just plug it in and tighten it down just like the Technics headshell.

KAB has one from Ortofon and one from Stanton.
johnnyb53
3,490 posts
 
The Denon DL-160 mounted on a Sumiko or LpGear Zupreme headshell is very musical, fast, linear, and balanced.

What Tvad said is true, though. Mounting most any cartridge on a removeable headshell is pretty equal from cartridge to cartridge, but if you get a KAB all-in-one solution such as the KAB-Ortofon Pro-S 30 for $239, all you do is plug the entire unit into the tonearm. Overhang and alignment are automatically already in adjustment. This method also eliminates an additional set of wire leads and clips and another detachable joint between the stylus and the tonearm.
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