Stereophile Recommended Components April 2010 Clearaudio Maestro: $1000
"A bold creation in a somewhat neglected territory" said MF of this boron-cantilevered moving-magnet cartridge. Paired with the Graham Phantom tonearm atop the Continuum Audio Labs Caliburn, the Maestro produced "remarkably rich, round orchestral colors, impressive dynamic swings, and big, ballsy images," but lacked the detail retrieval of the best low-output moving-coils. In combination with the Thorens TD 350 and SME M2 tonearm, The Maestro offered a "well-balanced, relaxed, and enticing" sound. "It's the best-sounding MM catridge I've heard," decided MF.