Originally Posted by
Cycleallday
Ive got the Quintet Blue and its great value for money (cost me £228 a year ago and I see it priced at £268 today). Its got a typical Ortofon sound which I like - detailed and smooth. To be honest I don't notice a huge difference between it and the 2M Black I have on another TT.
In respect of being bland; I dont like cartridges like the ATOC9 which I also own and find to be too toppy and bassy - bit like modern speakers and headphones. My preference is very neutral if possible.
I learnt long ago to ignore reviews and others comments and listen before buying. In fact the Blue was demod alongside other Ortofon carts at a show when it was very quiet so I heard it against the higher range also - not as good but an awful lot cheaper.