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Need better sound from my records, where to start?

I'm disappointed with the sound quality I'm getting from my current analog setup, and would appreciate some input on where to start making it better. I currently have a Music Hall MMF-2 turntable with an ortofon om 3e cartridge. I have an NAD PP-1 phono pre-amp feeding into my main system. My listening is almost exclusively with headphones through a tube headphone amp. The majority of my albums are bought used, in moderate to good condition. The problems I'm having are with excessive surface noise, and a slight breaking up of high frequencies.

My feeling is that I should go to a better cartridge first, along with the proper set-up tools, and an allsop oribitrac cleaner. Does that make the most sense? I was thinking of either the Shure V15VxMR or a Dynavector 10x5, with the intention that a cartridge in this range could last me through a turntable upgrade, maybe in the next year. Thoughts? Should I go after something other than the cartridge? Spend less on a cartridge? Thanks!
jed
loontoon
301 posts
 
For that rig I would go with a Ortofon X5MC. It's a high output MC. Not the last word in anything but very good at everything and extermely well balanced. Nice cartridge, and if you shop they can usually be had for $150 new.

loon
jed OP
10 posts
 
I'm very interested in the Audio Technica OC9, however the pp-1 does not support MC. While my first preference would be to go with one that would work with my existing NAD phono stage, perhaps the Audio Technica paired with a Pro-ject phono box and some appropriate alignment tools would set me up for a good while. I couldn't find too much info about the Ortofon cartridges. Any further thoughts on those?
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
That's a very light arm on that thing. I don't think that a medium compliance or low compliance moving coil, such as the Dynavector or Ortofon will be an optimum match. Would suggest the less-expensive Shure M97xE for a warm sound, or the Audio-Technica AT440ml for something more spirtited. Both waaay under $100.00 Then start saving for that new record cleaning machine and table. A Rega P3, or P5, Technics 1200, Clearaudio or the like will still sound quite good with these cartridges and you can upgrade the cartridge at a later date. At least you will be protecting your investment for now.
eldartford
4,262 posts
 
The Shure M97xE "don't get no respect" because everyone focuses on the V15xMR. The M97 is no slouch, and real real cheap.
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
Yes EL, $65.00 or so, including shipping, from www.jacksmusicfactory.com.
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