Been running this cart in for a while now. Right out the box it sounded good. Unlike my 2M Red, there was no sibilance after install so no needing to let it break in to get rid of it. . As I continue to run her in, it became very obvious to me that I have never really heard a drum kit sound so natural in my system. The cymbals sound like real cymbals. The midsection is just wonderful and I have even more front to back depth. I don't hear any of the back ground noise that others say it has nor do I hear any brightness. So far this cart is well worth the money paid and she does not even have nearly the hours on her to get her fully run it. I am still using the Grado phono stage, so it may be holding the cart back a bit. So far this cart is smooth and warm, not analytical like some of the professional reviews I've read. I can wait till she is fully run in.