Cartridge Recommendation for VPI Classic

[joe1515]

Originally Posted by John72953

I have a Grado Reference Platinum which I have enjoyed tremendously. I cannot comment on the others as I've not really listened to any of them recently.

Have you heard any of these yourself yet, Joe?

John

No I have not heard any of them yet. I want to narrow down my choices and then start the audition process. Which is not easy, but I will try.

[Johnny Vinyl]

Originally Posted by joe1515

No I have not heard any of them yet. I want to narrow down my choices and then start the audition process. Which is not easy, but I will try.

I think in all of our auditioning adventures, trying to have a listen to a cartridge of interest is one of the most difficult. Especially today with the seemingly fewer and fewer independant audio dealers about and the shift to digital even more so.

I chose the Grado Platinum because of a comfort zone. I previously owned their 8MZ and I choose it after having had the opportunity to listen to others. I am familiar with their sound signature and it is (obviously) one I like. I personally think they are very well rounded. They may lack a little here and there, but for overall performance and satisfaction ( as well consistancy over time) they deliver. That however is just my experience and no reflection on any other cartridge manufacturer.

The Lyras, Koetsus, Sumikos, Dynavectors, et al are equally as good, but with different characteristics. In the end, they are all good and certainly at the level of cartridge expenditure you are considering.

Good luck in your auditioning quest....I would certainly love to be there with you!

John

[richteer]

Originally Posted by John72953

I think in all of our auditioning adventures, trying to have a listen to a cartridge of interest is one of the most difficult. Especially today with the seemingly fewer and fewer independant audio dealers about and the shift to digital even more so.

Agreed. Assuming all goes well (work is still in progress behind the scenes), this is something I hope my Vinylphile Magazine* will address. Of course, there's no substitute for listening with your own ears in your own system, but reviews can certainly help narrow down the options to 2 or 3 shortlisted cartridges, which ine can try to audition personally.

* I'm very close to making a go/no-go decision. Stay tuned!

[Johnny Vinyl]

Originally Posted by richteer

Agreed. Assuming all goes well (work is still in progress behind the scenes), this is something I hope my Vinylphile Magazine* will address. Of course, there's no substitute for listening with your own ears in your own system, but reviews can certainly help narrow down the options to 2 or 3 shortlisted cartridges, which ine can try to audition personally.

* I'm very close to making a go/no-go decision. Stay tuned!

Waiting patiently in anticipation!

John

[naturephoto1]

Originally Posted by John72953

Waiting patiently in anticipation!

John

As am I.

Rich

[richteer]

Thanks for the support, guys. I appreciate it.

[joe1515]

Originally Posted by John72953

Waiting patiently in anticipation!

John

Especially me!

[joe1515]

What about Benz Micro or Shelter?

[naturephoto1]

Originally Posted by joe1515

What about Benz Micro or Shelter?

Both are fine makers of cartridges with a wide range of cartridges at many price levels.

Rich

[Johnny Vinyl]

Originally Posted by joe1515

What about Benz Micro or Shelter?

The name Benz scares my bank acount!

John