Grado Blue vs. ShureM97 xE

[richteer]

Originally Posted by franklinpross

It's time to get a new cartridge. I used to buy Pickering and Goldring.......back then. I like
silkiness, openness, airy sound. I need voices in the mid-range to sound
like they're in the room.

Under $100 with discounts from J&R or the like . . .(they have the above)

I'm not familiar with either of those two cartridges, but if you want "in the room" sound quality, you're gonna have to pony up quite a bit more than $100. Sorry...

What's the rest of your system (TT/amp/speakers)?

The 10-55k hz spec appeals to me. Even though you CAN'T hear that high it's nice to know it's
capable...these days does 1.5 tracking force have any bearing? I used to get away with 3/4 of a gram
with my (still functioning) Technics DD 1200 series TT and I used to fall for the .2x.9 stylus specs.
What about in 2009? What are they making? .2 x .7 ? ,2 x .9 ?...I'm clueless

3/4 og a gram sounds awfully light! Somewhere between 1.5 and 2 grams is usually about right, but you should always stick within the manufacturer's guidelines. And I've not seen stylus specs quoted in a loooong time!