I have no regrets about buying and using this cartridge for over two years now. It is easy to mount and suits the Project xpression I am using it with. The sound is almost never tiring, especially the treble is usually never harsh. This is especially important if your records are old and second hand ones. The output is enough to not bother about the phonostage. Just about anything will do. Last but not least, the packaging is truly impressive.

High frequencies are somewhat dulled out. A Denon 110 in comparison has a lot finer extension on top: the tinkle is sweeter. Its a reasonably good tracker, although it could be better. One problem I find is that with older record it tends to get very muddled and distorted in the crescendoes. This could be a combination of factors, I recognize. Even with new records its not the best when it comes to instrumental separation in a large orchestral piece. Chamber music and Indian classical are served very well, as also small jazz ensembles, but it lacks the raw aggression needed for old rock that I still listen to sometimes.

A very good starter cartridge. Its is more than adequate for the casual listner on a budget system. Bettered by slightly more expensive cartridges. Sturdy and easy to mount.

Customer Service

Excellent. My first sample came with a damaged tip. the Delhi distributer exchanged it without a fuss

Similar Products Used:

Denon 110

Easy to set up.The Dynamic Stabilizer is a great idea.Good value for the money.

None,really.

I believe this is the last cartridge from Shure that is not intended for DJs.My main cartridge of choice is the Shure MR Type V,but that model is discontinued.Too bad,as that was a great cartridge, to my ears.For those who have used Shure cartridges before,this cartridge holds no surprises.It is fairly easy to set up and the instructions are very straight forward.I like the Dynamic Stablilzer very much as it helps guide the stylus over those records that may have picked up a warp or two over the years.And,it helps keep the record clean while playing by gathering the dust I miss using my Disc Washer Brush.With the Stabilizer in use,I like to operate this cartridge between 1.25 and 1.50 grams.
I have put off describing the sound of this cartridge because I am unsure how to do so.It's not that the sound is bad,but I was diasppointed and I don't know why.Could be I'm comparing it to the sound from the MR Type V.However, that would be unfair as the Type V costs about 3 times as much as this cartridge.The bass response in the M97 is decent and the treble is fine,but the sound is not as clear and fine as the Type V.This might not be much of a problem when playing rock or pop music,but it is for classical music.However,before I sound too negative,let me say that I would recommend this cartridge as long as one is not expecting audophile sound.This is a fine,decent sounding cartridge,and that is all.It's workmanlike and a good value for the money.I have always used Shure Cartdridges and I will continue to use this one.But,I wish Shure had not discontinued it's audophile cartridges......

Customer Service

Shure's Customer service has always been top rate whenever I've had a problem.

Similar Products Used:

Shure MR Type V