by mrconclusion Wed Jan 15, 2014 3:28 am
I've used a Sumiko Pearl with a VTA preamp & ST70 amplifier. Overall, I'd say it's a good cartridge for the money. I don't find it to be lacking in bass and I had to spend more than twice as much to get a cartridge that sounded better. It tracks very well, especially after you have the proper force & anti-skate settings. The background is very quiet and the music sounds accurate & honest.
This is on an old Sansui turntable with a heavy arm. Most of the complaints I've seen came from use with newer, lightweight tonearms so perhaps that makes a difference.
Are you looking for a cartridge that has full bass? Nothing against the Pearl but I'll mention Grado too. They have a unique design & sound character. their "color" series (black, green, blue, gold) pass through the same price range. They're very warm and I think they're great for full warm (but not exaggerated) bass.