MC Recommendations

[IslandPink]

I'd have to highly recommend the Van den Hul modified Denon 103R , which I just had the chance to borrow from Lurcher (Nick) . Has all the tonal & dynamic strengths of the 103R with improved treble tone and detail. Unlike another rework I heard, it doesn't spoil the natural-sounding top end of the Denon.

[Clive197]

Hi Guy's,

My new plinth is nearly finished and I'll soon be ready to start playing with MC carts - So please any suggestions upto £700 (The price of a ortofon quintet black) which about my max. would consider second hand as well

Cheers
Graham

So why not go for the Ortofon Quintet Black which has a Shibata stylus (big fan of them) that you've already thought about. Otherwise have a word with HiFi Dave, his suggestion re the Hana seems interesting as it is also Shibata tipped and there has been some good press on them.

I think Dave sells (or used to) Ortofon, so he may have a good insight into both cartridges.

[hifi_dave]

What is the sound quality like with the high output models Dave? They might be an attractive option for those wishing to just retain an MM phono stage.

They are really good. I have sold a couple to Croft owners who didn't want to go to the expense of a step up x'mer.

The hanas have that elusive presence and spatial information which eludes many cartridges. I find they have more body and substance than the Ortofon Quintets for instance.