Considering one of three cartridges. Opinions?

[GlassWolf]

I'm using a Pro-Ject RM 1.3 with acrylic platter and speedbox II, and a DIY Groovewatt valve pre-amp that I modified to handle both MM and MC switchable. I'm looking at dumping the Sumiko Pearl cart that came with it in favor of one of the following. Any recommendations on which to choose?

Ortofon 2M Blue MM
Ortofon Super OM 40 MM
Dynavector 10X5 high-output MC

I rather like what I've seen of all 3, and they are all in about the same price range, give or take $50 or so. I don't really have anywhere I could try or listen to any of them prior to purchase though, as the one I choose will hve to be ordered in, or bought on-line.

[jackfish]

The Dynavector 10X5 is $450, the Ortofon 2M Bronze is $400, and the Ortofon Super OM 40 can be found for $345. Out of those I would go for the Dynavector. However, have you considered the Nagaoka MP-200 for $280? You would save a bit and get a fantastic sounding cartridge.

[flavio81]

I'm using a Pro-Ject RM 1.3 with acrylic platter and speedbox II, and a DIY Groovewatt valve pre-amp that I modified to handle both MM and MC switchable. I'm looking at dumping the Sumiko Pearl cart that came with it in favor of one of the following. Any recommendations on which to choose?

Ortofon 2M Blue MM
Ortofon Super OM 40 MM
Dynavector 10X5 high-output MC

OM40, Eyes closed.
But the Nagaokas shouldn't be overlooked! Also check out the AT-150MLX or (better) an AT-OC9MLII. Bargain.

[Tedrick]

Any of the 3 will be a substantial step up from the Pearl. For me, the clear winner is the Dynavector.

[bauzace50]

Hi,

My vote among those three is the OM-40, on the basis of having owned its two direct predecessors, the OM-20 and OM-30, which I regarded as specially distinguished on the basis of wide frequency response, channel separation, balanced tone, detailed resolution, and generous tracking ability.

Regards,
bauzace50

[HT Performance]

You clearly want the Dynavector 10x5 !!!

[GlassWolf]

I really appreciate the votes, and suggestions for other considerations. Thanks, guys. Still hoping to get some more input if anyone else has some experience or thoughts on the matter.

Are all 3 using a conical stylus, or are any of them eliptical?

[jackfish]

At that price there is not much of anything which is conical.
Dynavector 10X5 - Elliptical
Ortofon 2M Bronze - Nude Fine Line (Elliptical)
Ortofon Super OM 40 - Nude FG 70 (Elliptical)

[duficity]

Out of those 3, I would chose the Dyna 10x5

[jackfish]

If you want the best bang for your buck, get an Ortofon Super OM 10 for $69 and replace the stylus with an LP Gear Shibata stylus for the Ortofon OM 40 for $199. An outstanding performer for $268.

[flavio81]

At that price there is not much of anything which is conical.
Dynavector 10X5 - Elliptical
Ortofon 2M Bronze - Nude Fine Line (Elliptical)
Ortofon Super OM 40 - Nude FG 70 (Elliptical)

Obs: "Fine Line" and "FG70" are not elliptical shapes.

[Tedrick]

At that price there is not much of anything which is conical.
Dynavector 10X5 - Elliptical
Ortofon 2M Bronze - Nude Fine Line (Elliptical)
Ortofon Super OM 40 - Nude FG 70 (Elliptical)

The 2M Blue that the OP is considering is a nude elliptical.

[Coffee Phil]

Hi GlassWolf,

Sorry but I have no experience with any of those cartridges so I can't offer an opinion.

I noticed that you built your valve phono stage and it has MC capability. There has been a bit of discussion lately on the challenges of using valves for MC stages.

Any chance that you could post a schemo and a description of your phono stage?

This is for now just for my edification as it will be a while before I can afford a MC cartridge.

Thanks,

Phil

I'm using a Pro-Ject RM 1.3 with acrylic platter and speedbox II, and a DIY Groovewatt valve pre-amp that I modified to handle both MM and MC switchable. I'm looking at dumping the Sumiko Pearl cart that came with it in favor of one of the following. Any recommendations on which to choose?

Ortofon 2M Blue MM
Ortofon Super OM 40 MM
Dynavector 10X5 high-output MC

I rather like what I've seen of all 3, and they are all in about the same price range, give or take $50 or so. I don't really have anywhere I could try or listen to any of them prior to purchase though, as the one I choose will hve to be ordered in, or bought on-line.

[raphaelmabo]

The Ortofon OM-serie is more relaxed than the 2M-serie which is leaning more towards a brighter and upfront presentation. I found the Pearl sitting in-between, more punch than the OM but with more warmth than the 2M. The Blue and 40 gives more details and soundstage precision, but basic balance is different from the Pearl. But if that is what you want, then please try them out. An alternative to the 2M Blue is the Goldring 2200 (similar price) which is also a punchy cartridge more neutral and lean than fat and warm. Since the 2M Blue and Goldring 2200 are of higher compliance than the Sumiko Pearl (a medium compliance cartridge), they might be more suitable to the low mass tonearm in the Pro-Ject turntable (Pro-Jec tonearms are usually low to lower mid mass, which works better with medium to high compliance cartridges) - I have seen several Music Hall with the Pro-Ject 9 or 9cc tonearm being supplied with Goldring 2200 or 2400 (5.1 up to 7.1).