Is cartridge performace directly related to cost?
 

In the market for a new cartridge. Mine has too much gain for my amp; whopping 9.3mv. My valve amp input sensitivity is rated for .5mv@1w and 2.7mv@30w

Flying blind here since obviously I can't afford to buy each cartridge to find what suits my personal taste.

Many brands to choose from in my budget.

Shure M97XE
Grado Blue1
Sumiko Pearl
Nagaoka MP-110
Ortofon 2M Red
Audio-Technica 120E

Considering what I've spent for the speakers and the amp; do I need to double my budget?

I think the budget for a cartridge should be determined by the quality of
your albums and how much you actually listen to them or plan to in the future.
One budget cartridge is probably about as good as the next one. I have a
Goldring Elan and am happy with it. Most of my favorite records are not in
the best of shape so I doubt a better cartridge would improve the sound.

For what it's worth, I just upgraded to an AT 440MLa which can be had for about $100. It tracks extremely well and has excellent imaging and detail. One reviewer compared it favorably with his ClearAudio Maestro ($1,000). Personally, I'm extemely pleased with it and don't think you could get a better cart for the money IMHO.

Yes, 99% of the time unless you get lucky and hit some synergy.

Have you ever tried a MC cart?

Not always. Of the group you listed I would say the 2M Red, or the M97XE.
But, then taste in cartridges is like taste in speakers....subjective.

Dave

Yeah, with the sensitivity of his amp, I would think a nice MC would be in order. Although it might exceed his budget.

Dave