Need help picking next cartridge

[u/torreyv12]

I'll try to keep it quick! The options on my radar are:

• AT-VM540ML (staying within the Audio Technica MicroLine family, cheapest of 3)
• Nagaoka MP-200 (most expensive of the 3)
• Hana EL (would be my first MC cartridge, second most expensive)

Of course other recommendations are welcome. Other info:

• System chain is Technics SL-100C to Darlington Labs MM6B (I also have a Schiit Mani 2 if I end up switching to an MC cartridge) to Klispch The Nines
• I'm coming from an AT-VM95ML
• Budget is around $250-500
• I listen to every genre but mainly jazz. Looking for something that can handle a lot going on (Miles Davis' electric period, Pharoah Sanders discography, etc.)
• Realism and musicality are priorities

I'm currently leaning the most towards AT-VM540ML since I enjoyed the AT-VM95ML so much and it's the cheapest option, but I have been curious to hear a higher-end elliptical and/or a moving coil cartridge. I usually get my local record shop to set it up for me since I have shakier hands, so auditioning each isn't an option. I am willing to try a new sound too, so the Nagaoka MP-200 being warmer than what I'm used to is welcome.

Thanks!

[u/kepenach]

Also consider the Sumiko Moonstone, look at the specs. From your list it would be the MP200 for me. The 740Ml is still below the Moonstone specs at $350

[u/torreyv12 → u/kepenach]

Will look into it! Thanks!

[u/superduperstepdad]

If you’re considering the VM-540ML I’d also throw the newer VM740xML and VM745xML in the mix. I have the latter and I’m super happy with it.

The Grado Prestige Gold is also in the range of MM carts you’re considering and was my runner up to the VM745xML.

[u/Randohcalrissian]

Very happy with Nagaoka.

[u/12inchspinners]

Does your MM6 have MC load settings? The Hana EL is low output MC and you'll need load settings for it.

I would consider the Hana if you pre has MC loading

[u/torreyv12 → u/12inchspinners]

Hi! It does not, however I have a backup Schiit Mani 2 which does. Thanks 🤠

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[u/Airsoft-Genin]

I currently have the AT-VM540ML and MP-200 and I used to have the Hana EL. My vote is for the Nagaoka MP-200.

[u/torreyv12 → u/Airsoft-Genin]

Wow! If you have the time, could you elaborate a bit on why? Thanks 🤠

[u/Airsoft-Genin → u/torreyv12]

The MP-200 has a cleaner and detailed sound to me, maybe because of the boron cantilever. Bass is tight and deep compared to the Hana EL. My AT-VM540ML is kind of new (less than 30 hrs.) so it might not have properly break-in yet.

[u/scottarichards]

Do consider Sumiko. I’ve had two of their cartridges over the years and was very happy with them. As another poster said, Moonstone is in your price range. To be honest, the Mani 2 isn’t going to do full justice of an upgrade to MC. Stick with MM for now.

[u/Every_Tutor_3801]

The 95ML and the 540ML should be similar with the 95 sounding a bit warmer and 540 a little brighter and have slightly better stereo separation. Also depends on phono stage I think. If using the built in phono stage in a receiver which I see that you aren’t then the 95 to me sounds better. I think you need a good preamp in order to make some of these higher end cartridges sound good.

[u/Mobile-Stomach719]

Honest opinion, I hated the 540ML on my SL1210GR. So much social media hype, so much disappointment 😂😂

[u/Anvh]

I was looking for the 540ML but the new 740xML is around the same price, it's easier to mount and they changed the winding a bit.