Next year I'll set up a vinyl rig, but have decided to scale down a bit and upgrade later. I guess the Rega P3 is one of the most visible TTs in my price range, but I need some cartridge recommendations in the $300. to $900. range.

I'd also apppreciate some TT recomendations as well, but want to stay away from MMF.

I prefer a smooth sound that might complement my SET system, with good detail rerieval in terms of micro-dynamics etc.

thanks

Hi Sasaki,

The Denon DL103 would be at the lower end of your price range but still worth considering IMO. I've used mine on the RB300 arm for a number of years now and have been very happy with it. I've also read quite a few good opinions on it around the web which gives me some comfort in suggesting it. You will defintely get good dynamics with the Denon IMO.

Can't say much about new TT"s as everything I buy these days seems to be at least 20 years old! :)

cheers
Jack

Thanks. The more I research, the harder the decision becomes. I'm warming up to the Grado wood catridges...

I like the Pro-Ject Perspective I auditioned. Had a Benz Silver mounted. Sounded very nice. I wasent to fond of swaping motors out for 45's but its not that bad. Should fall easily in your price range. The other id like to audition is the Clear Audio Champion. priced nice and they have a good trade up policy. If your open to the used market the market opens up considerably. If I recall BrianB had a very nice price on a Demo Kuzma. I would have jumped on that if I didnt just buy my Sota. Let us know what you decide on.

Grumpy

Hi sk,

I don't envy your task.

In the $300-900 price band there are lots of interesting cartridges to choose from.

A few goodies that I have heard:

Denon 103D
Audio Technica OC-9
Dynavector 17D Mk II
Benz-Micro Glider
Sumiko Blue Point Special
Lyra Lydian

Another cartridge that has been getting very good press is the Shelter 501, a bargain at $650 direct from Japan or ~$800 from the US importer.

Have you got a good phono stage lined up ?



cheerio

The Dynavector10x4MKII was meant for Rega arms.:yippy:

Originally posted by sasaki kojiro
Next year I'll set up a vinyl rig, but have decided to scale down a bit and upgrade later. I guess the Rega P3 is one of the most visible TTs in my price range, but I need some cartridge recommendations in the $300. to $900. range.
Get the Denon 103 (http://www.phonophono.de/english/html/denon_details_0.html) from www.phonophono.de for about $US125 (122.20 E) plus postage. Excellent cart and excellent service from phonophono (they speak English). You'll have to spend a large amount to significantly beat this cart in terms of sheer listening pleasure over a huge range of music. Works pretty well in a Rega arm too from all I've heard. I use my 103's in SAEC arms.

Cheers

If you are willing to go with a MM cartridge, then I have a few that I would recommend:

I think that you can't go wrong with a Shure V15VxMR properly mounted on a RB250/300, especially if you want a smoother sound.

I also like the Goldring 1042. Similar in sound (and price) to the V15. Cheaper if you order from a UK vendor.

The Clearaudio Aurum Beta has superb midrange detail. I haven't heard the Aurum Beta S, but its supposed to be even better.

As far as TT's go, I'm a little partial to the P3. A nice no-nonsense deck. If you want a smooth sound, though, watch which cartridge you use with it or it can sound hard and edgy. The three carts listed above are good matches, IMO.

Best of luck,

Pat