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what cartridge?

post #1 of 4
11/7/07 at 8:59am
Thread Starter 
I have no previous experience with vinyl, other than messing with my fathers as a kid.

I'm getting an older Marantz turntable from a fellow co-worker. I'm going to replace the catridge. I don't want to spend over $100. What should I get. Are they universal? Thanks for any info on my new adventure.

James
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post #2 of 4
11/7/07 at 9:12am
You need to know what the phonostage you are using is capable of. A good MM cartridge is always a safe bet. Although IMO not as good sonicly as an MC cartridge. In your price range I would get a MM, maybe a shure, denon, AT. Lots of choices.
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post #3 of 4
11/7/07 at 10:10am
Thread Starter 

MM for now.

Quote:
Originally Posted by tom hankins View Post
You need to know what the phonostage you are using is capable of. A good MM cartridge is always a safe bet. Although IMO not as good sonicly as an MC cartridge. In your price range I would get a MM, maybe a shure, denon, AT. Lots of choices.
OK after some reading I will go with MM, moving magnet. How do I get info on the phonostage? what is the phonostage? I'm hoping she remembers to bring it in today and I'll have more info on it. Thnaks

James
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post #4 of 4
11/7/07 at 10:42am
The phonostage is either in your pre-amp or is available as a standalone and it matches the output of your cartridge to the input of the phonostage. If you have RCA inputs on your preamp marked "phono", then your preamp has a phonostage. Check with your preamps manufacturer's website for its specifications; these may dictate the cartridges you want to look at. In lower priced cartridges, I've always like Ortofon's sound.

Since turntables are mechanical devices subject to wear, I would check your "new" used turntables mechanical operation (drive system and tone arm) before running out to buy a new cartridge. You may need to repair/replace some drive and tonearm components just to get the thing running properly (if you can get the parts).
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