I've heard the ~$16,000 direct drive Grand Prix Monaco with Triplanar arm + lyra cartridge many times on varies phono stage configuration. And although Manoco is equipped with all the plus(compact size, super accurate speed and low rumble noise) I felt Grand Prix Monaco sounded thin, lag emotional involvement and not particularly dynamic.
Even thought I own an expensive rim drive HRX, I'm very intrigued by Albert's findings on the modded SP10-MK3. I would also love to know Albert's experience with SP10 vs Monaco.
Best,
Dan