Soundsmith Carmen Phono Cartridge

I just installed it on my VPI Classic 1/300RPM motor. For setup I used the VPI alignment tool. The VTA of the arm is level. The VTF is set to 1.394 and the azimuth was set in the middle of a test lp using a plastic protractor to ensure that the height was the same on both sides. I also am using the 3gm VPI headshell weight. The sound in word "excellent" and a bit better than my M97XE/SAS. The caveat is that I'm still getting use to it. But from what I'm hearing, it's staying. It passed the "playing a crappy record" test that I use when I first install a cartridge which is always a good sign for me.
Cartridges that I had on this quest include the aforementioned M97XE/SAS/ V15MRSAS/ V15VSAS, Dyna 10X5 which I really liked but ultimately it wasn't cutting it. Also a Soundsmith Othello which was not bad, but about the same as an M97XE. Not worth difference in price. The M97XE/SAS killed the Othello in my system.


How I got here. I am getting hum (mechanical) from t the table. It is not audible when listening to records. However when I listen to my cassettes the hum is there. I was not getting this hum with my LP12. To cut to the chase, I narrowed it down to motor resonance. I installed a 300RPM motor ($140.00 + shipping) and it helped a bit. I used the Audioquest dampening material under the motor to no avail.
The solution, the table will be replaced by an Aries 3, the platter, feet, arm, arm-mount from the Classic will be transplanted to the Aries 3.
Anyway I'm listening to Sarah Vaughn's Brazilian Romance which I'm recording to my Nak CR7A.
Last thoughts, I found a cartridge line whose sonic signature I enjoy, whose stylus assemblies are robust enough to survive the occasional whoops (sorry Dynavector). I will also be incremently moving up the Soundsmith line to the Voice.

 

$799.99? That aint cheap. I hope it blows the M97XE away.

 

Another good recommendation is an AT 33PTG. You need a good step up for this (or any mc) though.

As I've said before, the phono stage is just as important as the cartridge or turntable.

 

No I haven't. I have heard some of Peter's other carts though. And liked them a lot.

 

I had a Peter Ledermann retipped DL-103R with a ruby cantilever, in an ebony body that was fantastic. I'm sure his carts are great if matched properly.