Denon DL103 Moving Coil Phono Cartridge (Black)

Got back into vinyl back in 2010 or so. Bought a used Technics SL-Q2 turntable that works like new and a Shure M97xE MM cartridge. I was impressed by my Carver C-1 preamps Moving Magnet and Moving Coil phono stages and set up a all analog component system with a hafler DH-500 Class A Amp. I decided after a month of research on Vinyl Engine and The Carver Site, that a Denon DL-103 would be a big upgrade in my vinyl's sound. I was shocked to hear how much better my new and old vinyl sounded with this new Low Output Moving Coil cartridge rated at .3 mv. It lowers the noise floor of my vinyl and also gives a very clean playback by reducing pops and static on my vinyl. It's the best $167 I have spent to get my vinyl sounding as good as it possibly can. I highly recommend this M.C. cartridge to anyone on the fence about buying one or has a good M.C. phono stage (Head amp) to amplify the signal of the 103. I never give 5 star reviews but in this case I will since this M.C. is that good and at a very low price point. Price/Performance is off the charts with this cartridge!

I've owned the Denon 103 cartridge for 18 months now and I love it. I listen primarily to Jazz music with a tube amplifier and Klipsch Forte III horn speakers. Sound is smooth and easy with ample details - perfect blend for me. I was wary of purchasing to match with my SME 3009 S2 Improved tonearm based on what I read, but found a thread recommending it as a great match by simply using a stylus scale to measure additional tracking weight required by turning counter weight. Took a few minutes to mount and set and it works beautifully. Highly recommended.