View Full Version : Another best LOMC cartridge for €1k thread
I will soon be in the market for a new LOMC cartridge for around €1k.
Current thoughts are an ART-9, as I really like my AT33PTG/II.
Are there any others worth looking at in this price range?
Boyse6748
26-10-2020, 17:58
Might be worth looking at the Benz Micro Wood SL as another option to the Art 9
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Yep Hana ML gets my vote.
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Boyse6748
26-10-2020, 18:05
Yep Hana ML gets my vote.
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Yep, forgot to mention the Hana, probably the best of the bunch at this price point.
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Yep Hana ML gets my vote.
Sent from my I3312 using TapatalkI like mine for sure, having tried a Zu Audio Denon 103, Denon 103, 103R, Denon 304 II, Zyx R100 twice, Ortofon 2M Black, Ortofon Kontrapunkt B and AT PTG33II, I prefer the Hana ML [emoji6]
Ali Tait
26-10-2020, 18:08
Benz would be good.
prestonchipfryer
26-10-2020, 18:12
I use an AT-ART9XI. This is the replacement for the ART 9 and is a step-up in SQ over the ART 9. The AT-ART9XI is 200 quid or so more than the original ART 9.
Boyse6748
26-10-2020, 18:15
I like mine for sure, having tried a Zu Audio Denon 103, Denon 103, 103R, Denon 304 II, Zyx R100 twice, Ortofon 2M Black, Ortofon Kontrapunkt B and AT PTG33II, I prefer the Hana ML [emoji6]
Looks like you’re a bit of a Denon aficionado. I’ve a brand new (NOS) Denon 103 Pro Hyphonic that’s sat in the draw for the past two years. Must get round to giving it a try.
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Looks like you’re a bit of a Denon aficionado. I’ve a brand new (NOS) Denon 103 Pro Hyphonic that’s sat in the draw for the past two years. Must get round to giving it a try.
Sent from my iPad using TapatalkProbably more to do with the price, but I do like them too, the Zu Audio one being the best, should never have sold it, but then again I didn't own the Fidelity Research FR64fx arm at the time
topoxforddoc
26-10-2020, 18:20
ZYX R50 Bloom and an ESCO Denon 103 with the sapphire cantilever and paratrace tip would be other good options to consider. What's your tonearm, as that would affect the best match.
Beobloke
26-10-2020, 18:58
I’ve been through most of the cartridges mentioned and they are all excellent options. However, to add one more I reviewed the Clearaudio MC Essence a couple of years back. When it came time to return it. I told them they couldn’t have it back and to send me a bill instead!
I am still absolutely loving it.
The Vinyl Adventure
26-10-2020, 21:05
The Hana ML takes some beating at the 1k price point.
Kevin, does it have to be an MC? If not, why not give a Decca a go: https://www.analogueseduction.net/cartridges2/london-decca-gold-cartridge.html
I think with a mounting block it would work really well in your Funk arm:)
I also like the Shelter 301: https://www.analogueseduction.net/cartridges2/ShelterModel301II.html
These are also highly regarded: https://www.analogueseduction.net/cartridges2/zyx-r50-bloom-3-cartridge.html
Or a Jico [they don't just do stylus replacements]: https://www.lpgear.com/category/JICOCARTRIDGE.html
I like 'leftfield' choices;)
Marco.
loheswaran
26-10-2020, 21:50
Everyone I speak to rates the Hana ML - I like that it has Alnico magnets - poften useed on quite upmarket cartridges - why? I haven't the fogiest :) But i heard a 47labs which had them and it was excellent
ZYX R50 Bloom and an ESCO Denon 103 with the sapphire cantilever and paratrace tip would be other good options to consider. What's your tonearm, as that would affect the best match.
The tonearm is a Funk Firm FX1200.
Kevin, does it have to be an MC? If not, why not give a Decca a go: https://www.analogueseduction.net/cartridges2/london-decca-gold-cartridge.html
I think with a mounting block it would work really well in your Funk arm:)
I also like the Shelter 301: https://www.analogueseduction.net/cartridges2/ShelterModel301II.html
These are also highly regarded: https://www.analogueseduction.net/cartridges2/zyx-r50-bloom-3-cartridge.html
Or a Jico [they don't just do stylus replacements]: https://www.lpgear.com/category/JICOCARTRIDGE.html
I like 'leftfield' choices;)
Marco.
It does not have to be, as I could keep my Music Maker Classic. I am just tempted by a decent LOMC.
The Hana ML takes some beating at the 1k price point.
How does this compare to the Hana SL?
The ML is better than the Benz SL at this price point?
It does not have to be, as I could keep my Music Maker Classic. I am just tempted by a decent LOMC.
No worries. You've certainly got plenty of options!:)
Marco.
Ammonite Audio
27-10-2020, 05:56
Phasemation's new PP-200 will be a contender in this price bracket, and I expect it to be available soon. Phasemation cartridges are beautifully built, have lower surface noise than most MC cartridges, and quite literally track like trains.
https://ammonite-audio.co.uk/product/phasemation-pp-200-stereo-moving-coil-cartridge/
https://www.phasemation.com/product/pp-200.html
https://ammonite-audio.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Phasemation_pp-200-480x480.jpg
Phasemation's new PP-200 will be a contender in this price bracket, and I expect it to be available soon. Phasemation cartridges are beautifully built, have lower surface noise than most MC cartridges, and quite literally track like trains.
https://ammonite-audio.co.uk/product/phasemation-pp-200-stereo-moving-coil-cartridge/
https://www.phasemation.com/product/pp-200.html
https://ammonite-audio.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Phasemation_pp-200-480x480.jpg
I was going to mention Phasemation, but I hadn’t heard one, they look nice too.
They do look nice, but my OCD would start kicking in a bit with a blue cartridge on a red arm tube. :mental:
Jac Hawk
27-10-2020, 09:03
I use an AT-ART9XI. This is the replacement for the ART 9 and is a step-up in SQ over the ART 9. The AT-ART9XI is 200 quid or so more than the original ART 9.
A reliable source at Audio Technica told me that the inner workings are exactly the same and the only difference to the cart is that it now has threaded screw holes, the new Art 9 range actually replace the Art 7 and Art 9. Maybe the difference you're hearing is a new cart against one which is worn out.
I wouldn't look past AT.
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They do look nice, but my OCD would start kicking in a bit with a blue cartridge on a red arm tube. :mental:Eek, that definitely wouldn't look right.
What about the new Hana Unami Red, a snip at £3400 [emoji50]
Right colour though [emoji6] [emoji23]
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20201027/c6c8f7986d408d744f92cbfacdcdd517.jpg
AJSki2fly
27-10-2020, 12:39
If you consider a Benz Micro the it may be worth having a chat with Henrik at https://www.lydprodukter.dk/60-low-output-mc he is a Benz Micro main dealer and holds a large stock, and often has some very good offers, his prices are very good anyway. He is very knowledgeable and helpful, one of the better dealers IMO.
I have nothing to do with his business, just had some excellent customer service from him in the past.
If you consider a Benz Micro the it may be worth having a chat with Henrik at https://www.lydprodukter.dk/60-low-output-mc he is a Benz Micro main dealer and holds a large stock, and often has some very good offers, his prices are very good anyway. He is very knowledgeable and helpful, one of the better dealers IMO.
I have nothing to do with his business, just had some excellent customer service from him in the past.They do look competitive whilst we remain the EU. £600 for an ACE SL is best part of £200 saving ( assuming there is no additional sales tax). Cost of postage needs to be considered.
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They do look competitive whilst we remain the EU. £600 for an ACE SL is best part of £200 saving ( assuming there is no additional sales tax). Cost of postage needs to be considered.
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I have the advantage that I am remaining in the EU. Things in the U.K. are likely to become expensive in January until all the bumps are sorted out, but that could take some time.
AJSki2fly
27-10-2020, 17:12
They do look competitive whilst we remain the EU. £600 for an ACE SL is best part of £200 saving ( assuming there is no additional sales tax). Cost of postage needs to be considered.
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He ships all over the world with a good courier and I think passes on business rates. He usually as a few ex-demos up his sleeve for great prices as well.
prestonchipfryer
27-10-2020, 18:11
A reliable source at Audio Technica told me that the inner workings are exactly the same and the only difference to the cart is that it now has threaded screw holes, the new Art 9 range actually replace the Art 7 and Art 9. Maybe the difference you're hearing is a new cart against one which is worn out.
No I don't think that is the case. My older ART 9 has less than 100 hours use. I have found the newer version to be a step-up in SQ to my ears.
The AT-ART9XA replaces the ART 7 which has a lower output than the ART 9XI. The AT-ART1000 remains at the top and is bright sounding compared to the other cheaper models.
topoxforddoc
27-10-2020, 19:34
As Marco said earlier, my vote would be for a Decca, although it's a moving iron rather than MC. I prefer my Decca to my high end MC for 90% of recordings. There's a Decca FFSS Mk IV C4E on *bay for GBP699 at the moment. Mk IV prices have gone up in the last few years - someone even suggested that I might have been partly responsible, given my effusive praise for the earlier Decca. Even so at £699, this is an excellent buy - it's been checked by John Wright, who builds all the modern Decca (London) cartridges.
Charlie
Thanks Charlie.
Just not sure a Decca will be best suited for my tone arm.
From what I have read here, they also seem fragile, or have I just got a bad impression of them?
I already have a reasonable Mi cartridge in my Music Maker Classic, but I realise it is no Decca.
I am having second thoughts on this, as it is nearly impossible to hear all of the cartridges before committing to one.
That has got me thinking if it would be a better move buying something like a Neurochrome 686 or Benchmark AHB2 tomdrive my speakers better than my Nuerochrome 86s can.
Yamamoto YC03s
https://i.postimg.cc/9fMWgFQ4/IMG-6154.jpg
https://i.postimg.cc/sx4LZyzq/IMG-6626.jpg
That looks like an interesting choice.
Indeed, how much is it?:)
Marco.
About €1k, but I can't find one here in France.
RobbieGong
29-10-2020, 10:23
Around $1000
Looks to be a cracking cart http://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/equipment/1009/yamamoto_yc03s.htm
About €1k, but I can't find one here in France.
Doesn't matter mate, just import it from a reliable seller. IME, most of the real cartridge gems are found in Japan!:)
Marco.
Jac Hawk
29-10-2020, 10:52
No I don't think that is the case. My older ART 9 has less than 100 hours use. I have found the newer version to be a step-up in SQ to my ears.
The AT-ART9XA replaces the ART 7 which has a lower output than the ART 9XI. The AT-ART1000 remains at the top and is bright sounding compared to the other cheaper models.
Just passing on what i've been told from a friend who works for Audio Technica, you're right the Art 1000 is still the daddy, but what they found is the ART 7 and 9 were both similarly priced and from the outside look the same ( size, shape ) which confused buyers, also many people and i was one complained about them not being screw threaded, so apparently they fixed the screw thread issue and re branded the 2 carts under 1 banner with the suffix denoting either magnetic or none magnetic core, personally i've not compared the tech specs but what i've been told makes sense.
Clive197
29-10-2020, 11:29
Another vote for the Hans ML. Best cartridge I’ve ever owned.
Killie65
29-10-2020, 13:51
Heed Audio Zene is a fine sounding cartridge, made by Benz Micro to Heed spec'. and has the boron cantilever and the Geiger S stylus in an ebony body like the Lps. £400 cheaper than the Wood SL too.
RobbieGong
29-10-2020, 14:12
Heed Audio Zene is a fine sounding cartridge, made by Benz Micro to Heed spec'. and has the boron cantilever and the Geiger S stylus in an ebony body like the Lps. £400 cheaper than the Wood SL too.
Good shout !
Heed Audio Zene is a fine sounding cartridge, made by Benz Micro to Heed spec'. and has the boron cantilever and the Geiger S stylus in an ebony body like the Lps. £400 cheaper than the Wood SL too.
That is a cartridge I can find very little information about.
Is it a sufficient step up from the likes of an AT33PTG/II?
https://www.choicehifi.com/product/heed-audio-zene-mc-cartridge/
https://www.choicehifi.com/product/heed-audio-zene-mc-cartridge/
Found that one yesterday, but I think it has already sold, as the supplier is not responding to my enquiry.
That is a cartridge I can find very little information about.
Is it a sufficient step up from the likes of an AT33PTG/II?
A close friend plays jazz trumpet and has a good ear... He had a Benz Ruby and later the AT33 SA... The Ruby sat in a draw and was eventually sold... The SA was killed on playback and he went Art 9... Last conversation he's itching for the 'new' 9.... I find the AT's a bit 'sterile' but horses for courses and all that... Oh and we both run AT33 Mono Anniversary's.
Compared to the Techne-Audio 103 that I sold recently, the AT33PTG/II is definitely "sterile". I almost miss that 103, but changing the tonearm is not an option I wanted to take right now.
Found that one yesterday, but I think it has already sold, as the supplier is not responding to my enquiry.I chased it a few weeks ago...yes gone.
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RobbieGong
30-10-2020, 21:42
Found that one yesterday, but I think it has already sold, as the supplier is not responding to my enquiry.
Yeah saw that one too (not that I 'm looking for a cart, but if I was it would be one for serious consideration ......)
Boron cantilever, Fritz Gyger S profile, I reckon it's a steal at its going price, let alone the price it was going for there, no wonder its gone
I chased it a few weeks ago...yes gone.
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It's a shame they can't:
Respond to e-mail
Answer Text Messages
Update their website
Remove it from HiFi Shark
etc.
etc.
Boyse6748
30-10-2020, 23:10
This is not a sales offer but got a Denon 103 Pro (Hyphonic) “NOS” and a Benz Wood SL (50 Hours) collecting dust.. (not literally).
A couple of hours on the Denon.. “real music” .... stunning.
Not the cartridges mentioned in this post.... but close!
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The 103 really needs a heavier arm than the one I have.
If it didn’t then I would be tempted by a VdH modified 103 I have spotted for sale.
Here you go
https://pinkfishmedia.net/forum/threads/rebuilt-akiva.247342/#post-4156605
Thanks, but it won’t work as there are flying leads on both tonearm and cartridge.
Thanks, but it won’t work as there are flying leads on both tonearm and cartridge.Ah, ok forgot about that
To be honest, I am not going to buy blind, so I need to wait until confinement is over, and find out what I can hear "locally".
In the meantime, I have ordered bits for my new amp build, which is probably going to take priority for now.
Killie65
31-10-2020, 21:35
That is a cartridge I can find very little information about.
Is it a sufficient step up from the likes of an AT33PTG/II?
A friend has the Heed cartridge, it's more lively than equivelant Benz with the same nice timbral qualities, impressed me and i'd consider it a bargain. Been a long time since I heard an AT to offer comparison.
It also seems to have been discontinued now, but there may be a few lying around somewhere.
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