Audio Technica AT32E II

[Andrew B]

I've just bought one of these carts new at a cheap price. My experience of AT MCs is limited so I wondered if anyone else has heard this particular one. I'm torn about using it right now because its brand new and I might prefer to seek a swapsie for another Denon DL103R instead.

Previous ATs I've had were a mixed bag: ATF5 on a Rock/RB300 - Good although a bit peeky. ATOC5 on a PT Too RB300 - dull, dull, dull. ATOC9 on an LP12/Ekos - very good indeed.

My dilemma is that I seem to love the Denon DL103R and rebodied 103. I find it enthralling in a way only the Supex made Linn cartridges have approached. ATs, Ortofons, Dynavectors just sound mechanical in comparison. I'll also be using an arm I have no experience of, at least initially: A Helius Orion.

I'd also appreciate feedback from anyone with experience of the arm too, although this is less critical. If it doesnt suit me, I'll probably move it on and buy another Origin Live arm, which I know I like.

[Rare Bird]

Helius 'Orion'was a nice arm but heavy. What deck are you planning sitting it on? You used to see it alot on PT's..

[Andrew B]

I am going to try it on two decks and see which one (if any) it suits. I'll be trying a Rock and an Analogue Works deck although I will have to make armboards for both, because it's SME cutout with different geometry and orientation.

I had intended to stick it on my Xerxes when I bought it, because that already has an SME cutout. Then I did a little more reading and discovered that it wont fit because it's a 10 inch arm and the SME style base has a different orientation (front to back instead of on an angle).

I heard an Orion on a Voyd many years ago and it was really fab. If I get it to sound half as good, I'll be happy.

[Rare Bird]

'Orion' will suite the Rock nicely

[Andrew B]

Thanks for that. I'll try it on the Rock first. The Rock is a pleasure to use :)