I haven't heard the AT150MLX, but my Sonata is anything but boring and dry. To my ears, it has one of the most realistic and natural sounding midranges I've heard in a cartridge. The timbre is spot on. It may not have total control over some bass tracks, or have the top end sparkle or nuance that some carts offer, but the overall feeling is extremely inviting and warm. I kept it for these reasons. I whole-heartedly recommend it.