I have a Denon 103 to go on the Gyro, but I had a bit of trouble with it, so I put the Shure on. I'm not sure how much it would have cost, but you're probably right that it was a budget-ish cart. I think it's a brilliant cart. I think it has it all: a good bottom end, it's detailed and vocals sound so good through it. I'd defo get a stylus for it, mate, and give it a listen. I think you might be pleasantly surprised