Quote:
Originally Posted by
Jasper9395 
Ok that is interesting. I would have through the cheaper Grado cartridges could compete with it. What I am looking for is something that has a little more oomph than the goldring while still being insightful. Maybe that is not possible on a tight budget.
Not exactly cheaper Grados can do it. If you can source a low impedance body ( Signature 8,
9 mH inductance ) at reasonable price, any stylus from 8MZ up will sound great. But TOTL, XTZ is serious money and law of diminishing returns is still in force.
Wood bodied versions without user replaceable styli are much higher priced for the same stylus quality. Just look how much $ is needed for the first nude mounted stylus in wooden line and compare it with the price of the first nude mounted stylus in the removable line. Removable stylus line can be a very cost effective solution.
If you want a special Grado, there is always http://www.avahifi.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=258&Itemid=226&74a0ad6b5f7a1df0ef4ab98b8fffbb41=386bab211b01952ab93d59dc16ac9c12
If you want the very best stylus on Grado: KAB Gold1 http://www.kabusa.com/frameset.htm?/grado.htm
It really boils down to $ and "sweet spot" Grado can be a very enjoyable experience. Grado can be VERY love/hate affair, depending on tonearm, system, listener preferences, etc - so before splashing serious money, try an inexpensive version to see if the house sound suits you. If you do not like say $ 70 Grado at all, there is litle chance you will be tempted to try Statement. I only menaged to get to hear the first woody with nude mounted stylus, IIRC that is Sonata.
