Grado Blue vs. ShureM97 xE

[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)

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 .. .

Is there a real difference, say between the Blue and the Gold Grado?