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Cartridge For Audio Note TT1 and Michell Tecnoarm

I'm currently using an Audio Note IQ1 cartridge with my Audio Note TT1 and Michell Tecnoarm turntable, and running it through the built-in phono stage in a Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum. I'm mostly pleased with the set-up but wonder if I could get significant improvement out of replacing the cartridge or stylus.

My budget is ~$500, and I'm leaning towards these options: Dynavector 10x5, (NOS) SAE 1000LT or just replacing the stylus with an Audio Note IQ2. (I'm also open to other suggestions, though if it's to get a new phono pre it's not really what I'm looking to do.) Anyone with some experience with a similar set-up?

I mainly listen to 70-80s rock, current indie and electronic, 60-70s reggae and soul, by the way.
shumazing
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
You sum up the weaknesses of the Cronus phono stage very well, I would throw in a lack of dynamics and a bit of congestion on highly modulated passages.

I believe that all of the phono stages mentioned will be a big step up. You might also give Rogue a call and get their feelings on moving up to the Stealth.

Happy holidays.
shumazing OP
25 posts
 
I took the plunge and got an Avid Pellar phono preamp that I found as a demo and got a nice deal. It's still breaking in after about 10 hours and the difference is pretty substantial already. As opposed to the phono stage in the Cronus, the sound is significantly more dynamic, detailed and delicate at the same time. Even the slight harshness in the upper-mid to lower-treble band is mostly dealt with (though some giant windows on the back wall without curtains are the likely culprit). Not to completely diss the Cronus phono stage, it's OK; it's just the Pellar is much better. Thanks for putting me in the new phono pre direction, rather than going straight for a new cartridge. I'm very pleased.
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Congrats on your new phono stage. The Avid looks teriffic. Now if, and when, you upgrade your cartridge you can hear it in all its glory.
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