I have a Thorens TD160 TT with an SME 3009 that has been serving me very well for the past couple of years. It came with a Shure V15VxMR cartridge and original Shure stylus. Then when recently digging through some bits and bobs I have acquired over time, but never yet put to use, I swapped the headstock and gear for another altogether different one - and the result has given me reason to doubt the condition of the Shure gear. I replaced the headshell in the TT with one loaded with a Pickering V-15/ AT-2 cartridge. I had a Stanton stylus lurking about that fitted the cart and give this combo a spin. The result was a surprisingly greater volume level and a shift in overall dynamics. Much more defined tops, creamy mids and bigger bottom end. It made the Shure sound quite gentle and a bit flat overall. Now I am no expert so this might be an obvious outcome, but I am wondering if I should invest in a decent JICO SAS for either of the 2 - I am just not sure which option would serve me best? Then again I could annoy my wife and lash out on both to see what comes out tops. Your advise might prevent a looming conflict 
