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Re: Cartridge recommendations - longish

71.145.161.230

Posted by Pete Fowler on April 22, 2007 at 09:32:04

In Reply to: Cartridge recommendations posted by joetubes555 on April 22, 2007 at 06:51:47:

Just to give you perspective - I have a Thorens TD124, FR64fx, DL103R w/shibata stylus and a DIY EAR834P phono amp...

In my opinion your table and arm are a solid base to build on - chasing a new arm/table combo will cost you a fortune and might not even equal the potential of what you have now. If you "feel" you must upgrade then put some money into the table - bring it up to MkV specs or whatever.

(Others may chime in here regarding the Oracle but the FR64fx is a very good arm - I'd keep it). Your cartridge is holding your system back, and maybe the amp, NOT the TT/arm combo.

I'd say buy a solid cartridge and maybe later a phono amp. Here's one approach...

1. If your MF phono amp can handle a low output moving coil cartridge (LOMC), buy a Denon DL103 for $150. The conical stylus will be great for your beater LP's and the combo of the DL103 and the FR64 is superb (I speak from first-hand experience here).

2. If the MF can't handle a LOMC, then try an AT or Dynavector cart that folks highly recommend. Your ears will thank you.

3. Or, go for the gusto and order a DL103 and a pair of Cinemag step up xformers. Approx $270. This will get you into a LOMC and the Cinemags can be reused with other carts and phono amps so the money is well spent.

4. After you get familiar with the LOMC sound (and if you like it), send the DL103 to Phonophono for a shibata retip for $140. It will take your system to a new level, just check the archives (again I speak from experience).

5. Or sell the DL103 for almost what you paid for it and use the money for a DL103R ($250). Retip at Phonophono or Soundsmith and you'll be in clover. It will take a big chunk of change to beat this setup.

6. Upgrade your phono amp because at this point the rest of your vinyl front end can support a much better amp. Look at a Hagtech or Bottlehead kit to keep it reasonably affordable.

Wordy, ain't I? ;-) In any case, good luck with your adventure!

Cheers,

Pete

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