schachte@ittvax.ATC.ITT.UUCP (Peter Schachte) (05/30/85)
I recently posted these questions regarding phono cartridges:
Are Shibata (sp) cartridges just a gimmick?
What is a good cartridge in the < $100 range (discounted)?
What is a good mail-order house (reliable, trustworthy, cheap)?
One person responded to the first question:
Line-contact styli (such as Shibata, Hyperelliptic, MicroRidge,
Van den Hul, etc.) are worthwhile. Distortion drops
dramatically due to higher tracing ability. However, alignment
of the cartridge becomes more important, especially vertical
tracking angle (VTA). Best advice: buy your cartridge from a
reputable dealer who will install and align the cartridge in
your arm (preferably at no cost above the suggested list of the
cartridge).
Regarding the second question, two people recommended the Sure V15-Type
V MR cartridge, priced $125 - $150, and one person mentioned a Denon
moving coil cartridge he was very happy with. The overwhelming
recommendation, however, was for the Grado line of cartridges, starting
< $20. Five people suggested Grado, two of whom owned them and were
very enthusiastic.
As for the last question: no one responded. I've posted this question
before and didn't get any responses then, either. I guess nobody likes
to talk about it.
Many thanks to all who responded. I guess I'll try to find a Grado. If
I do find one, I'll keep you all posted -- if I still have access to the
net.
--
Peter Schachte
(schachte@ittvax.uucp)