I’m really loving this Grado Cartridge. It’s a Grado Prestige Red, in case any one cares about the specifics… I made this choice because it was recommended to me by a local guy who said it was in my price range. I think spending over $200 on a cart is a little silly, but I told him under that was do-able, this is what he came back with.

It’s been a blast to re-discover some music now that I have a cart that tracks light, and doesn’t color the sound too much. I also feel good about it not wrecking my vinyl, as I’ve got some pretty nice new stuff that I’d rather not get messed up or worn out.

I’m pretty sure I moved from a CN5625AL – from Audio Technica, which was fine, but totally an entry level cart. Since I’ve moved to the Grado, my records sound much clearer and more dynamic. I’m sure the Grado isn’t for every listener but for my mix of mostly newer “Indie Rock”, Electronic, Classic Rock, and even Classical & Jazz, this cart does a good job.

Mostly I wanted to post this for the picture – it was taken with my Nikon D5100 and the macro lens Hana bought me for my birthday a few years ago. Pretty sweet huh?

Now if only I could stop the dogs from running around the house when I’m listening to records…