LOMC recs

[kernow]

I fancy like trying a new cart - well, new or used. Apart from the obvious hana recommendations what are we looking at for up to £2k? 

I like the sound of the transfig, Benz, shrug 

 

[Jules_S]

I was going to suggest Benz, as it happens. You could also look out for a Koetsu, maybe even one of the "new" Kisekis, given what you say you like. I think that some of the other well-known names like VdH, Clearaudio, even AT, will have a different sonic "signature" to Benz. What about the Zyx Airy? A new one is over budget but a used one should make it in. I've never heard one but they have a good reputation.

 

[kernow]

I'm unsure what would be suitable for my IV tbh 

 

[triumph]

Cadenza Black

 

[kernow]

Cadenza Black

Been thinking about it. Seen a used one for £795. 

 

[Lurch]

Been thinking about it. Seen a used one for £795. 

That one from lintone is pretty tatty looking. There's a T'fig proteus on at the moment low hours and sensible for money.

Also koetsu Black goldline. Whilst the ML is good the Black GL walks all over it for SQ and shear musicality. 

 

[kernow]

That transfig isn't a bad deal. Hmm 

Or a new cadenza black for £100 more

 

[kernow]

It's exactly the same weight and tracking force - ahem 

 

[Lurch]

Had the T'fig on my watch last night and had a seller offer for £100 off so worth a punt at a lower figure than advertised. 

 

[kernow]

Nice! Cheers for the tip 

 

[triumph]

Few reports of these with design faults in the windings/generator  

Transfiguration founder Seiji Yoshioka died a few years ago . it's defunct as a company, so I dont believe there is a company called Transfiguration to take it up with, at least one capable of rebuilding a matched pair of coils.

 

[Von Krolock]

Have a look at Acoustic Signature cartridges Shaun.
Been using the poverty spec bonded eliptical MCX1 for a few months & the Cadenza Blue it replaced isn't really being missed.
It's big & heavy at over 13g but your SME will be ok with that.
It has a nice big fruity sound & tracks superbly - the Cadenza Blue probably has the edge on detail but it can sound just a touch clinical.
 

 

[Lee M]

@yoda900 love his Vertere Mystic...about 2k....Vertere have released a MM called Sabre bit less money 

 

[topoxforddoc]

After the passing of its founder, Transfiguration is sadly no more. I think that Steven Leung at VAS in New York has rewound coils for a Transfig, as well as retipping them. Apart from the other mentions above, you could also consider a ZYX, which should also work fine in your SME.

 

[kernow]

I was close to making an offer on it but think I'll wait and have a look around

 

[yoda900]

@yoda900 love his Vertere Mystic...about 2k....Vertere have released a MM called Sabre bit less money 

The Mystic is very good even compared to my Kondo Io and Kiseki PHS. They do need at least 40 hours on them from new otherwise sound quite forward but the depth and body comes along with use, even more than with the Hana.

Big thumb screws so a doddle to fit.

 

[bigrod]

I swapped the Benz on my basis signature for the AT ART 9 XI ..Superb dynamics and musicality ..One of the best carts I’ve heard in a long time ..The Benz , although a great cart was “slushy” compared to the ART 9 XI.. Faultless tracking and it doesn’t collect crap on the stylus like the Benz did , I was forever cleaning it even though my vinyl is regularly cleaned in an ultrasonic bath and then a project vac unit..

I did a deal with Mark at Vinyl Passion

He did have another one for the right money .. Worth a call

Kindest regards Julian

 

[Lurch]

There's this Art9 I on eBay at the moment, opened not used. The price is right and no bidders.