View Full Version : Whats the prettiest cartridge
Vrajbasi
07-09-2018, 11:37
Here we go another whats the prettiest threads, to me cartridges can be like little jewels I used to have a line up on my mantle piece and some in a glass cabinet. Mine has to be the Kisiki lapis lazuli I once owned a thing of beauty with its stunning blue stone body with flecks also the Kisiki agate ruby. The stone body koetus are stunning too. I remember the first VDH grasshopper I owned in the 90s being a beast massive metal parts big front pole I loved it for its technical looks. I love the looks of the spu cartridges too.
This from B&O
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180907/5a900d90dbeb203ca97e173e128f838b.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180907/8f660d89b7ef2b40ed8a8ae6826330ae.jpg
jandl100
08-09-2018, 06:36
Most carts are ugly things, but this wood bodied Cardas looks rather nice.
https://www.audioadvisor.com/images/CRMHSLV.jpg
Vrajbasi
08-09-2018, 06:47
Most carts are ugly things, but this wood bodied Cardas looks rather nice.
https://www.audioadvisor.com/images/CRMHSLV.jpg
George did make the humble benz prettier with all those holes and a bit of bling
This is my favourite to date.
Kiseki Purple heart Sapphire on the ceramic arm.
https://i.imgur.com/FHzD90tl.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/1CxtaAUm.jpg
Vrajbasi
08-09-2018, 16:22
Lovely I went through a Kisiki phase had the Purple heart shaphire the Black heart, agate ruby and the Lapis Lazuli should never have sold it just for the stunning looks
For me, being mainly into vintage hi-fi and the 'retro' look, the new SPU 'Wood A', from Ortofon, in the classic 'Type A' shell, is just simply gorgeous:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/923/qE5Rcl.png
I'm also a big fan of the SPU sound.
Details here: https://www.ortofon.com/spu-wood-a-p-758
Marco.
I’ve always liked the looks of Lyra cartridges, kind of an industrial look. And the old Benz Micro with Ebony body was rather easy to look at.
Russell
Mike Reed
09-09-2018, 10:08
This from B&O
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180907/5a900d90dbeb203ca97e173e128f838b.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180907/8f660d89b7ef2b40ed8a8ae6826330ae.jpg
You've got to be joking, Grant. A metal cylinder with a tapered plastic snout; doesn't even LOOK like a cartridge. I had a couple of these back in the seventies' dark ages. :lol:
That Kiseki (underneath view) SO resembles the newer Koetsu Black Goldline, but I think there is a link between the two, or once was.
For me, the more exotically coloured Urushis are the most beautiful; more so than the stone bodied cart's.
spendorman
09-09-2018, 10:17
This from B&O
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180907/5a900d90dbeb203ca97e173e128f838b.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180907/8f660d89b7ef2b40ed8a8ae6826330ae.jpg
Blimey, I think it's ugly, mind you I have one and it's a bloomin good cartridge.
I'm no judge of aesthetics, I like the look of my 1989 Volvo 340 GLE.
walpurgis
09-09-2018, 10:26
I'm not sure is actually matters what a cartridge looks like. To me, complementing its looks seems a bit like saying 'that's a beautiful hammer' or 'that's a gorgeous dustbin' :D.
I think people really should stop getting emotional about their gear and just get on with listening to it instead of admiring it............So there! :lol:
jandl100
09-09-2018, 10:37
https://www.vinylengine.com/images/cartridgedb/transspirit.jpg
http://hifipig.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/axia-ONE-1024x764.jpg
spendorman
09-09-2018, 10:45
I liked the look of these when they came out, don't have one, but have a spare stylus.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1870/43659300015_670d71318f_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29w2jPZ)prd343lg (https://flic.kr/p/29w2jPZ) by A60man (https://www.flickr.com/photos/41679262@N02/), on Flickr
jandl100
09-09-2018, 10:48
And the good ol' Denon 103 has nice lines imo
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/417EQ8pHpsL._SX355_.jpghttps://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/1680331db741e7343ee046517bd90ec9-480-80.jpg
jandl100
09-09-2018, 10:53
https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51umVDgyaaL._SX425_.jpg
spendorman
09-09-2018, 10:55
Looks OK to me, and possibly the best value cartridge of all time:
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1855/44568889211_488299d4af_c.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2aUpd1k)img-20151031-154823_612147 (https://flic.kr/p/2aUpd1k) by A60man (https://www.flickr.com/photos/41679262@N02/), on Flickr
walpurgis
09-09-2018, 10:59
Looks OK to me, and possibly the best value cartridge of all time
Yes, it has to be. I still have a couple.
Actually, I'd include the ADC 10E Mk.IV alongside. In the later seventies it was £39 new and for sound quality, it competed on equal terms with the Decca Londons and Ortofon SPU's, which were much dearer.
spendorman
09-09-2018, 11:04
Yes, it has to be. I still have a couple.
Actually, I'd include the ADC 10E Mk.IV alongside. In the later seventies it was £39 new and for sound quality, it competed on equal terms with the Decca Londons and Ortofon SPU's, which were much dearer.
I think I have about seven M75ED's! All have OK/ new styli. I also have one with a 78 stylus.
The 10E Mk IV was a cartridge that wanted to buy decades ago, but it was too expensive for me.
walpurgis
09-09-2018, 11:10
The 10E Mk.IV is a superb sounding cartridge. I have a couple of the now very rare 10E Mk.II's as well and a 550E, which also sounds lovely.
Did you know that Goldring used to manufacture high quality replacement styli for Shure cartridges? I have one, a brand new, unopened Goldring M75E stylus.
I think people really should stop getting emotional about their gear and just get on with listening to it instead of admiring it............So there! :lol:
says the man who has god knows how many 774 arms and wont sell 1!:lol:
spendorman
09-09-2018, 11:15
The 10E Mk.IV is a superb sounding cartridge. I have a couple of the now very rare 10E Mk.II's as well and a 550E, which also sounds lovely.
Did you know that Goldring used to manufacture high quality replacement styli for Shure cartridges? I have one, a brand new, unopened Goldring M75E stylus.
No I didn't know that. The only Goldring cartridges that I tried were the cheap G800, good, and the Epic, more expensive, didn't like it.
walpurgis
09-09-2018, 11:18
says the man who has god knows how many 774 arms and wont sell 1!:lol:
Actually, I'm starting a grand Hi-Fi sell off soon and reverting to a simpler setup. Mind you, I'll be wanting top dollar, as the old pension is a bit stretched at the moment! :)
walpurgis
09-09-2018, 11:19
No I didn't know that. The only Goldring cartridges that I tried were the cheap G800, good, and the Epic, more expensive, didn't like it.
I'm very fond of my Eroica LX.
Vrajbasi
09-09-2018, 11:20
https://www.vinylengine.com/images/cartridgedb/transspirit.jpg
http://hifipig.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/axia-ONE-1024x764.jpg
Pitty never got on with any Lyra had a Atlas and a Etna both to sterile for me
I'm not sure is actually matters what a cartridge looks like. To me, complementing its looks seems a bit like saying 'that's a beautiful hammer' or 'that's a gorgeous dustbin' :D.
I think people really should stop getting emotional about their gear and just get on with listening to it instead of admiring it............So there! :lol:
I fully agree, but since we're being asked to *think* about it, then why not illustrate some relevant examples?:)
Marco.
jandl100
09-09-2018, 12:33
that's a beautiful hammer
https://www.bedfordsaw.co.uk/content/images/thumbs/0000541_vaughan-d-series-titanium-hammer-straight-claw_500.jpeg
:thumbsup:
It's lead out wires that give me the horn... what a misguided off topic thread I consider this to be then:D
I shall go now...:)
I'm very fond of my Eroica LX.You missed the 't'.
Sorry, that gay-boy pink Transfiguration does nothing for me (in looks or sound)... Other cartridges I like the looks (and sound of) are the Jan Allaerts MC18:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/921/01mpyj.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/921/xMpAPB.jpg
And the jewel-like Koetsu Jade Platinum, mainly because I love this shade of green:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/2Y2Rj1.jpg
Also love the Blue-Lace Onix:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/V5pXv5.jpg
Or Ikeda Kai Reference, which reminds me somewhat of the Linn Trak, from the 1980s:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/PMFnlK.jpg
Linn Trak:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/923/rUEoK0.jpg
I rather like its quirky looks, and have fond memories of its sound, from back in that day!
Marco.
if it wasn't for the awful suspension id happily live with one of these.
https://s26.postimg.cc/ja876mgnt/IMG_2270_1.jpg
https://s26.postimg.cc/uzc6upxdl/IMG_2271_1.jpg
Yes, I've always liked the look of that Technics, too:)
Marco.
Mike Reed
09-09-2018, 13:16
Sorry, that gay-boy pink Lyra does nothing for me (in looks or sound)... Marco
Nari alluded to the Axia being a Lyra, but 'tain't. 'Tis a Transfiguration, forerunner or successor to the Aria, the cheapest in the range. Transfig's don't really attract adjectival comment because they're simply too transparent; seemingly without a sonic tag. Above the Aria/Axia is the Phoenix, then Proteus (formerly the beloved Orpheus). In addition, it doesn't look like any Lyra I've known or had. I concur about the Jade; lovely, restful but exorbitant green.:)
Nari alluded to the Axia being a Lyra, but 'tain't. 'Tis a Transfiguration
Yup, Mike, you're right. And I knew that, but somehow got sucked into the Lyra thing! Yes, the Jade is class. Just a lovely rich colour!:)
Now this will likely divide opinion (I think Jerry will hate it, lol), but I simply ADORE the chunky, bean-can looks of the Pierre Clément:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/19xIHN.jpg
Prefer it, though, in red:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/640x480q90/924/kmLzBk.jpg
I just love fat-assed cartridges, especially when built into their own headshell, as I hate seeing ugly wires, screws and bolts! Just plug it into a suitable tonearm, and you're away!:cool:
Looks rather purposeful too, when 'on duty', mounted on a tonearm:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/0PjLxd.jpg
Marco.
jandl100
09-09-2018, 13:37
:doh: :lol:
A nice (nuded) EMT TSD-15:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/neaTNC.jpg
Or in full 'broadcast livery':
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/RAmEmd.jpg
Marco.
Haselsh1
09-09-2018, 13:58
The finest looking cartridge I ever saw was back around 1983 and was a Lapis Lazuli bodied one. I'm not sure but I think it was by Kiseki.
spendorman
09-09-2018, 14:02
Rather a plain looking cartridge is the Audio-Technica AT66, It's a very old budget cartridge, but sounds pretty good. Anyone any experience of these?
Now for some Decca lurveliness:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/PSjgRV.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/UdWaaA.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/xtbX2C.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/sZpMzL.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/y5Fl2a.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/GMvZZ1.jpg
Love ALL that stuff, especially the FFSS!:)
Marco.
Now some sexy Supex:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/kfxNIC.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/7dJeKS.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/LB2SGf.jpg
The (latter) SDX-1000 is my fav... Lovely musical sounding devices with proper bass!:cool:
Marco.
The finest looking cartridge I ever saw was back around 1983 and was a Lapis Lazuli bodied one. I'm not sure but I think it was by Kiseki.
Ah yes, from Kiseki:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/Xse3QW.jpg
Nice, but a little garish for me... They sounded superb, though!:)
Marco.
Vrajbasi
09-09-2018, 15:31
Nari alluded to the Axia being a Lyra, but 'tain't. 'Tis a Transfiguration, forerunner or successor to the Aria, the cheapest in the range. Transfig's don't really attract adjectival comment because they're simply too transparent; seemingly without a sonic tag. Above the Aria/Axia is the Phoenix, then Proteus (formerly the beloved Orpheus). In addition, it doesn't look like any Lyra I've known or had. I concur about the Jade; lovely, restful but exorbitant green.:)
I am sorry mike my mistake, the only Transfig I have owned at any length is the Orpheus which was nice, and I do have a bee in my bonnet about Lyra so went of on one :lol: The interesting thing about the stone bodied koetsus is that each body does influence the sound I know the Jade quite well its the softer sounding stone bodied cartridge, the best to my ears was the Black Onyx very rare happy with the brown Tiger eye.
Vrajbasi
09-09-2018, 15:32
Ah yes, from Kiseki:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/Xse3QW.jpg
Nice, but a little garish for me... They sounded superb, though!:)
Marco.
Superb sounding beast dont make them like they used too.
I completely agree! Cartridges are 'voiced' rather differently these days, with to my ears, a rather forward, soulless overall balance and spotlit (somewhat too 'insistent') top-end, together with a lack of bass authority, to properly underpin the sound and give it gravitas.
There are some exceptions, but they're few and far between! The fashion now seems to be for trading tone, for (uber) detail retrieval. Not my thing, as I'm a TONE and RHYTHM/BOOGIE-MEISTER (so I like 'heft' and weight), not some emaciated, ethereal 'tinkly sparkle':D
Marco.
Vrajbasi
09-09-2018, 16:24
I completely agree! Cartridges are 'voiced' rather differently these days, with to my ears, a rather forward, soulless overall balance, with a spotlit (somewhat too 'insistent') top-end and lack of bass authority, to properly underpin the sound.
There are some exceptions, but they're few and far between!
Marco.
Spot on it was easier to find a nice cartridge upto the mid to late 90's there was so much choice, now all into this extra transparency which generally leads to a thin bleached midrange, no impact to the bass and just un musical. I remember the koetsu 80th anniversary I owned once on a goldmund turntable it was magic, then I was stupid to fall into the trap of trying to find better, these day much more cautious.
Thank god we still have the ortofon spu, the Miajima range and some of the koetsu's even some of those are going funny my latest cartridge the Etsuro is very natural with a nice sence of body looks pretty too. I am still not convinced about the Top wing I have it has the tendency to be strident its all an expensive game these days and you only learn by living with something.
I remember an early Koetsu even making a Roksan Xerxes sound kind of listenable in the late 80s try that now be like wall paper stripper
Mike Reed
09-09-2018, 17:10
......... not some emancipated, ethereal 'tinkly sparkle':D
Marco.
I'm sure you mean 'emaciated' :lol:. Maybe part of the 'Free from' Sainsbury's range? I've an 'orrible feeling that what I've got in the Transfig. might be resembling your remark ! Then I compare Lyra (had two and borrowed Titan i in November) and think I'm on the safe side. Loved my Benz Ebony, and the Transfig is just a more transparent 'version'.
Always considered cartridges' tonal presentations to be able to be described as rungs on a ladder. The Benz would be half way up, with the Transfig very close but more neutral (up half a rung). Koetsus (and, I'd say, Mayajimas) deffo on the bottom rung. Lyras are three-quarters of the way up, with VdH (well, some) above that. This is a moving coil ladder, of course, comprising, say, 10 rungs.
I'm sure Clearaudios, Linns et al can be slotted in somewhere. Now where's my medication.......?
I'm sure you mean 'emaciated' :lol:.
Ah yes, too much vino at lunchtime!!:doh::D:drunk:
Marco.
Mike Reed
09-09-2018, 18:19
Ah yes, too much vino at lunchtime!!:doh::D:drunk:
Marco.
'Emancipated' is fine, as it signifies freedom of speech, as it were....:) Love your inebriated emoji, but 7 bottles.......?
I liked the look of these when they came out, don't have one, but have a spare stylus.
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1870/43659300015_670d71318f_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29w2jPZ)prd343lg (https://flic.kr/p/29w2jPZ) by A60man (https://www.flickr.com/photos/41679262@N02/), on Flickr
I still use the Ortofon MC200 'Concord' - looks very similar, apart from the finger lift which is black and affixed to the body with two screws. (And being an MC obviously doesn't have a user replaceable stylus.)
Sorry, that gay-boy pink Transfiguration does nothing for me (in looks or sound)... Other cartridges I like the looks (and sound of) are the Jan Allaerts MC18:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/921/01mpyj.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/921/xMpAPB.jpg
And the jewel-like Koetsu Jade Platinum, mainly because I love this shade of green:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/2Y2Rj1.jpg
Also love the Blue-Lace Onix:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/V5pXv5.jpg
Or Ikeda Kai Reference, which reminds me somewhat of the Linn Trak, from the 1980s:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/PMFnlK.jpg
Linn Trak:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/923/rUEoK0.jpg
I rather like its quirky looks, and have fond memories of its sound, from back in that day!
Marco.
I once used a Linn 'Asak'. Looked virtually identical to the 'Trak'.
Don't like the look of any of the stone-bodied Koetsus: the wood-bodied versions and the black Urushi samples are more to my visual tastes (but even the latter are verging on the wrong side of 'bling').
Rather a plain looking cartridge is the Audio-Technica AT66, It's a very old budget cartridge, but sounds pretty good. Anyone any experience of these?
I had one back in 1970. It was the Grado FTE+1 of its day, that is incredible value for money. :)
RobbieGong
09-09-2018, 20:37
Ortofon Anniversary - A95
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1847/43861171574_bd13a6723a_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29PRYd7)A95-side-510x510 (https://flic.kr/p/29PRYd7) by Robert Rowe (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152233952@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1885/30709246998_4696932140_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/NMEVeQ)A95-front-510x510 (https://flic.kr/p/NMEVeQ) by Robert Rowe (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152233952@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1896/43669750305_54d30a1b45_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29wWTkp)A95-510x510 (https://flic.kr/p/29wWTkp) by Robert Rowe (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152233952@N07/), on Flickr
spendorman
09-09-2018, 20:41
I had one back in 1970. It was the Grado FTE+1 of its day, that is incredible value for money. :)
Thank you, I have two of them, not much info around. My two have different diameter styli, can't remember the figures.
I once used a Linn 'Asak'. Looked virtually identical to the 'Trak'.
Don't like the look of any of the stone-bodied Koetsus: the wood-bodied versions and the black Urushi samples are more to my visual tastes (but even the latter are verging on the wrong side of 'bling').
I Know, I remember... At the time, the Asak was higher up the range, and I think used a better generator, or possibly stylus.
I know what you mean about the Koetsus, but I see them more as 'jewels' (depicting my favourite colours), so in that case I don't mind a bit of bling!
In any case, I thought you'd have commented on all the SPU, Deccas, EMTs, Supex, and not forgetting the iconic Pierre Clément!:)
MArco.
Ortofon Anniversary - A95
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1847/43861171574_bd13a6723a_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29PRYd7)A95-side-510x510 (https://flic.kr/p/29PRYd7) by Robert Rowe (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152233952@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1885/30709246998_4696932140_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/NMEVeQ)A95-front-510x510 (https://flic.kr/p/NMEVeQ) by Robert Rowe (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152233952@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1896/43669750305_54d30a1b45_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29wWTkp)A95-510x510 (https://flic.kr/p/29wWTkp) by Robert Rowe (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152233952@N07/), on Flickr
Yes I can see it's 'sculptural appeal', Rob, but it's a little too modern looking for my tastes in cartridges. If it's an Ortofon, give me a nice big PHAT SPU any day!;)
Marco.
Yup, Mike, you're right. And I knew that, but somehow got sucked into the Lyra thing! Yes, the Jade is class. Just a lovely rich colour!:)
Now this will likely divide opinion (I think Jerry will hate it, lol), but I simply ADORE the chunky, bean-can looks of the Pierre Clément:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/19xIHN.jpg
Prefer it, though, in red:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/640x480q90/924/kmLzBk.jpg
I just love fat-assed cartridges, especially when built into their own headshell, as I hate seeing ugly wires, screws and bolts! Just plug it into a suitable tonearm, and you're away!:cool:
Looks rather purposeful too, when 'on duty', mounted on a tonearm:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/0PjLxd.jpg
Marco.
FYI: https://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?44392-Manufacturers-Pierre-Clément
I still use the Ortofon MC200 'Concord' - looks very similar, apart from the finger lift which is black and affixed to the body with two screws. (And being an MC obviously doesn't have a user replaceable stylus.)
Again I can appreciate the visual appeal of something so slim and sleek, but I'm afraid it's the wrong shape for me, as I prefer a nice fat arse!:eyebrows:
Marco.
FYI: https://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?44392-Manufacturers-Pierre-Clément
Interesting stuff, Barry. And yes, I'd seen it in the Library before:)
Btw, the last link in that page to 'Audio 16' no longer goes anywhere - simply to a blank page on the website concerned.
Marco.
Now for some Decca lurveliness:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/PSjgRV.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/UdWaaA.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/xtbX2C.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/sZpMzL.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/y5Fl2a.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/GMvZZ1.jpg
Love ALL that stuff, especially the FFSS!:)
Marco.
There is something satisfying in the understated look of those Decca 'heads' (the Mk.I, II, III and (S)H4E). I have a Mk.III, shown in the first photo.
Yes, that's my favourite. Nice one :)
I just much prefer 'enclosed' type cartridges like that (and the likes of SPUs), as I think they look much nicer on the end of an arm, than their 'exposed' counterparts, fixed to a standard headshell, where one can see all the ugly lead wires and mounting hardware (nuts and bolts).
Marco.
RobbieGong
09-09-2018, 21:02
Yes I can see it's 'sculptural appeal', Rob, but it's a little too modern looking for my tastes in cartridges. If it's an Ortofon, give me a nice big PHAT SPU any day!;)
Marco.
Lol, funny how you and I agree on loads of hifi stuf BUT I really dont like the big block / lumpy look of SPU's, which I find very 'geriatric' like something I'd find in a pensioners draw.
Funny how different things appeal in different ways to the eyes
Interesting stuff, Barry. And yes, I'd seen it in the Library before:)
Btw, the last link in that page to 'Audio 16' no longer goes anywhere - simply to a blank page on the website concerned.
Marco.
Oh - OK, I'll try to repair/restore the link, and if unsuccessful will edit.
A couple of the images didn't seem to work either, so again I may have to pinch some of yours to repair. ;)
Lol - go right ahead:)
Marco.
Lol, funny how you and I agree on loads of hifi stuf BUT I really dont like the big block / lumpy look of SPU's, which I find very 'geriatric' like something I'd find in a pensioners draw.
Ha - I *totally* get that! However, it's just a look I happen to like in cartridges. Also remember that almost every cartridge I'd want to own has some sort of broadcasting history, including SPUs. I just like that type of sound (such as I described earlier).
Have you ever heard an SPU in a complimentary set-up?:)
Marco.
walpurgis
09-09-2018, 21:19
Lol, funny how you and I agree on loads of hifi stuf BUT I really dont like the big block / lumpy look of SPU's, which I find very 'geriatric' like something I'd find in a pensioners draw.
Yeah, but listening to one sort of takes your mind off that. :)
Lol, funny how you and I agree on loads of hifi stuf BUT I really dont like the big block / lumpy look of SPU's, which I find very 'geriatric' like something I'd find in a pensioners draw.
Funny how different things appeal in different ways to the eyes
I'm not yet a pensioner, but you'll find a few in my draw (or rather cartridge case)
I agree with you over the 'nude' A95 and also the 'Anna' as regards appearance, but the exposed magnets are (ahem) a 'magnet ' for ferrous detritus. which will accumulate over time and is virtually impossible to remove. Essentially the cartridge has to be completely dismantled when serviced and/or re-tipped. I have had this problem with one of my EMTs which has been 'nuded'.
Yeah, but listening to one sort of takes your mind off that. :)
Ha - but anyway you're used to what's inside a pensioner's drawer!!:lol::eyebrows:
Marco.
RobbieGong
09-09-2018, 21:21
Ha - but anyway you're used to what's inside a pensioner's drawer!!:lol::eyebrows:
Marco.
:eek: :lol:
I'm not yet a pensioner...
I thought you were over 65, no?
Marco.
:eek: :lol:
Or even 'drawers'......... [as in knickers]
:D
Marco.
walpurgis
09-09-2018, 21:25
Ha - but anyway you're used to what's inside a pensioner's drawer!!:lol::eyebrows:
Marco.
You can keep your nose out of my drawers mate! :D
RobbieGong
09-09-2018, 21:28
Ha - I *totally* get that! However, it's just a look I happen to like in cartridges. Also remember that almost every cartridge I'd want to own has some sort of broadcasting history, including SPUs. I just like that type of sound (as I described earlier).
Have you ever heard an SPU in a complimentary set-up?:)
Marco.
Never heard one but i'm in no doubt it would sound great, full, probs a little creamy / rich and musical.
Apart from the look of that A95 it's the sound (obviously) which I'm led to believe is as detailed as anything, very dynamic and in Noel Keywoods words ...
Hi-Fi World September 2015 Reviewed by Noel Keywood
"...Dry, fast, extremely detailed and almost concussive, the A95 is a highly tuned mechanical statement. It is not lush, warm or cuddly, but rather a machine of insight and deep analysis...
...Massively capable, the A95 is a cartridge that makes the LP sound better all-round than I have ever heard it. Almost frightening!"
RobbieGong
09-09-2018, 21:31
Or even 'drawers'......... [as in knickers]
:D
Marco.
Thats what I took you to mean, knowing the Marco 'pervy - sicko' mind :lol: :D
Ha - but anyway you're used to what's inside a pensioner's drawer!!:lol::eyebrows:
Marco.
From four until late, I was wringing my hands and crying
From four until late, I was wringing my hands and crying
I believe to my soul that your daddy's gulfport bound
From four until late, she made me a no good barroom clown
From four until late, she made me a no good barroom clown
You know she won't do nothing but tear a good man's reputation down
A woman is like a dresser, some man always running through it's drawers
A woman is like a dresser, some man always running through it's drawers
She cause so many men to wear an apron overall
When I leave this town, I will bid you fare farewell
When I leave this town, I will bid you fare farewell
And when I return again, you'll have a great long story to tell
Thats what I took you to mean, knowing the Marco 'pervy - sicko' mind :lol: :D
Wot - moi? :flasher:
Marco.
"...Dry, fast, extremely detailed and almost concussive, the A95 is a highly tuned mechanical statement. It is not lush, warm or cuddly, but rather a machine of insight and deep analysis...
Sadly, all things I hate in a cartridge, *if* it's at the expense of other things I value much more, such as tone, timbre, natural warmth (which doesn't mean 'warm and cuddly'), rhythm and fluidity - and above all, palpable power and authority (delivered when the music demands)! I DETEST a reedy, forward sound, lacking in 'balls'.
The fact is, you can still have oodles of "insight and deep analysis" without it resulting in coldness and sterility, which unfortunately is what I hear with the vast majority of modern Ortofons, especially the top models.
Marco.
Some sexy images of the Pierre Clément, for Bazza:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/dl5vuR.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/AOPp19.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/pNqrng.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/qD1Qa1.jpg
Feel free to use all (or any) of these for your article in the Library:)
Marco.
Cheers Marco,
Those are Pierre Clément cartridges adapted to be used with arms having the SME/EIA coupling.
Out of interest, do you know if anyone is still manufacturing them - or are they old stock that have been modified?
The most appealing cartridges to me are the ones that don't require the dexterity of a brain surgeon set up. I cut my teeth on a 2M Black so I was in at the deep end. I have to agree about the Ortofon Concorde, very space age looking.
Cheers Marco,
Those are Pierre Clément cartridges adapted to be used with arms having the SME/EIA coupling.
Out of interest, do you know if anyone is still manufacturing them - or are they old stock that have been modified?
No worries, that's why they interest me, as it'd be the only way I could ever use one!:)
Sorry, don't know if anyone is still manufacturing them. The only thing I've discovered is that a chap, by the name of François Saint-Gérand, contactable via the following website, is a big authority on them and may know where to obtain some: http://anamightysound.com/pages/about-us/
Marco.
Smegger68
10-09-2018, 00:51
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180910/4722adee430b0f889989041379676594.jpg
Rather keen on the looks of my Benz Ace :)
jandl100
10-09-2018, 03:54
^ Yes, very pretty.
Good to see you still have my old Usher 719 on your kit list, James. Nice speakers. :)
Ortofon Anniversary - A95
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1847/43861171574_bd13a6723a_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29PRYd7)A95-side-510x510 (https://flic.kr/p/29PRYd7) by Robert Rowe (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152233952@N07/), on Flickr
now where have i seen that cartridge before............? :lol:
https://s26.postimg.cc/davw1i9yh/x-men-the-last-stand.jpg
Bigman80
10-09-2018, 06:40
[emoji1787][emoji1787]
now where have i seen that cartridge before............? [emoji38]
https://s26.postimg.cc/davw1i9yh/x-men-the-last-stand.jpg
Sent from my VKY-L09 using Tapatalk
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180910/4722adee430b0f889989041379676594.jpg
Rather keen on the looks of my Benz Ace...
Yes, that's quite cool. Looks like a boiled sweet:)
Marco.
RobbieGong
10-09-2018, 07:42
now where have i seen that cartridge before............? :lol:
https://s26.postimg.cc/davw1i9yh/x-men-the-last-stand.jpg
:)
Smegger68
10-09-2018, 12:30
^ Yes, very pretty.
Good to see you still have my old Usher 719 on your kit list, James. Nice speakers. :)
Indeed, once I got the big Luxman behind them they opened up hugely. I still Have the SD-5s you sold me too. You are my official speaker dealer :D
paulf-2007
10-09-2018, 14:08
Ortofon Anniversary - A95
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1847/43861171574_bd13a6723a_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29PRYd7)A95-side-510x510 (https://flic.kr/p/29PRYd7) by Robert Rowe (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152233952@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1885/30709246998_4696932140_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/NMEVeQ)A95-front-510x510 (https://flic.kr/p/NMEVeQ) by Robert Rowe (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152233952@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1896/43669750305_54d30a1b45_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29wWTkp)A95-510x510 (https://flic.kr/p/29wWTkp) by Robert Rowe (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152233952@N07/), on Flickr
I prefer the A90, it has holes in the vertical piece but they are not drilled, the whole thing is made like 3D printing but in metal. I expect the A95 to sound as good though.
Spectral Morn
10-09-2018, 14:33
The finest looking cartridge I ever saw was back around 1983 and was a Lapis Lazuli bodied one. I'm not sure but I think it was by Kiseki.
https://www.audionirvana.org/filedata/fetch?id=86894&d=1525577775
Agreed. At one time that was the most expensive cart I ever installed when in the trade back in the early 90s. It went on a Pink Anniversary and SME 5 arm. It was a scary installation, in case I broke it.
RobbieGong
10-09-2018, 15:27
I prefer the A90, it has holes in the vertical piece but they are not drilled, the whole thing is made like 3D printing but in metal. I expect the A95 to sound as good though.
Not read a review that doesn't say the A95 is better than the A90 and in all areas apparently.
Ortofon Anniversary - A95
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1847/43861171574_bd13a6723a_z.jpg
now where have i seen that cartridge before............?
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/vz2T1L.jpg
And that's all it's good for!;)
Marco.
RobbieGong
10-09-2018, 15:43
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/vz2T1L.jpg
And that's all it's good for!;)
Marco.
Ha ha - desperate :D
RobbieGong
12-09-2018, 12:24
Sadly, all things I hate in a cartridge, *if* it's at the expense of other things I value much more, such as tone, timbre, natural warmth (which doesn't mean 'warm and cuddly'), rhythm and fluidity - and above all, palpable power and authority (delivered when the music demands)! I DETEST a reedy, forward sound, lacking in 'balls'.
The fact is, you can still have oodles of "insight and deep analysis" without it resulting in coldness and sterility, which unfortunately is what I hear with the vast majority of modern Ortofons, especially the top models.
Marco.
Hi Marco, I'm playing catch up here and just spotted this.
I'm sure you'll know I couldn't agree more and feel the same - 'reedy, forward sound, lacking in balls' is not the sound I'd be seeking in my set up :nono:
I've not heard the A95 (would love to in my own system), but from the numerous reviews, customer and otherwise that I've indulged, the A95 is not dry, fast and extremely detailed at the expense of tone, timbre or natural warmth, neither is it sterile or cold other wise it would have slipped off my 'wants radar' immediately.
Tonal, timbral, textural accuracy and body are essentials / the ideal alongside neutrality in terms of 'the aim and goal'
Rhythm and fluidity should come forth by the nature of the beast ie: extracted from the grooves, as recorded accordingly with any decent system. The forementioned tonal, timbral, body etc wont necessarily be a given, hence our pursuit of suitable quality gear and transducers coupled with synergy....
Analog Planet 2015
While the cartridge was still "green", the sound seemed to combine the A90's tonal neutrality and speed with some of the MC Anna's velvety-richness.
Stereophile - Recommended Components 2017 Edition-turntables-tonearms-cartridges
"the A95 is the A90 on testosterone." The low-output (0.2mV) A95, whose specs indicate a slightly lower compliance than that of its predecessor, earned from MF praise for "wider dynamics [than the A90]—particularly in the bottom octaves—and a generally richer, more fully fleshed-out sound." He concluded: "the Ortofon MC A95 definitely improves on the MC A90's well-deserved reputation [as] one of the world's best-sounding phono cartridges." In a Follow-Up, MF found that the A95 had less "dynamic authority and just plain slam" than the Ikeda Sound Labs Kai (@£5.5K), but distinguished itself with greater "tonal and textural expression."
One for the future God willing which you're more than welcome to come and have a listen to whenever it lands :)
Despite my dislike of the appearance of the stone-bodied Koetsus, I'm going to contradict myself by putting up the malachite housing for the Denon 103 for your delectation:
http://anamightysound.com/uwe-green-malachite-stone-body-limited-edition-first-pictures/
https://i.pinimg.com/474x/c9/0a/ec/c90aec810992e7f8b6bac42afa022bcd--turntable-cartridge-schick.jpg
RobbieGong
12-09-2018, 12:46
Despite my dislike of the appearance of the stone-bodied Koetsus, I'm going to contradict myself by putting up the malachite housing for the Denon 103 for your delectation:
http://anamightysound.com/uwe-green-malachite-stone-body-limited-edition-first-pictures/
https://i.pinimg.com/474x/c9/0a/ec/c90aec810992e7f8b6bac42afa022bcd--turntable-cartridge-schick.jpg
That is indeed pretty
Mike Reed
12-09-2018, 13:52
Despite my dislike of the appearance of the stone-bodied Koetsus, I'm going to contradict myself by putting up the malachite housing for the Denon 103 for your delectation:
http://anamightysound.com/uwe-green-malachite-stone-body-limited-edition-first-pictures/
https://i.pinimg.com/474x/c9/0a/ec/c90aec810992e7f8b6bac42afa022bcd--turntable-cartridge-schick.jpg
Well now, that's a bit different. Looks like a truncated version of all the stone-bodied Koetsus rolled up in one ! 6.15 grammes is very light for many moving coils, but for stone, exceedingly so
RobbieGong
12-09-2018, 14:10
Well now, that's a bit different. Looks like a truncated version of all the stone-bodied Koetsus rolled up in one ! 6.15 grammes is very light for many moving coils, but for stone, exceedingly so
Indeed, defo stone-bodied Koetsu style right there
Despite my dislike of the appearance of the stone-bodied Koetsus, I'm going to contradict myself by putting up the malachite housing for the Denon 103 for your delectation:
http://anamightysound.com/uwe-green-malachite-stone-body-limited-edition-first-pictures/
https://i.pinimg.com/474x/c9/0a/ec/c90aec810992e7f8b6bac42afa022bcd--turntable-cartridge-schick.jpg
That would clash horribly with my red tone arm tube.
That would clash horribly with my red tone arm tube.
Red and green are complimentary colours, so shouldn't 'clash'. I think it would go nicely with the pale gold anodising of one of my arms. :)
I thought the saying was “Red and green should never be seen” or something along those lines.
Personally, I don’t think cartridges look “pretty”. They are mostly box type shape, and I for one prefer function over form.
red and green should only be seen upon an Irish queen and never be seen without a colour in between.
I thought it was blue and green should 'have something in-between'.
blue and black, gray and brown too as is orange and red..in fact your better off going nude ;)
RobbieGong
12-09-2018, 16:43
I thought the saying was “Red and green should never be seen” or something along those lines.
Personally, I don’t think cartridges look “pretty”. They are mostly box type shape, and I for one prefer function over form.
I think that applies to most audiophiles for the greater part.
At the same time I couldnt live with a piece of kit that I hated the look of, I've always sought gear that hits me sonically and that I genuinely like the look of as well (i'm sure I'm not alone on that one) :)
RobbieGong
12-09-2018, 16:45
blue and black, gray and brown too as is orange and red..in fact your better off going nude ;)
What about the neighbours ?.... :eek: :D
blue and black, gray and brown too as is orange and red..in fact your better off going nude ;)
Orange and red I can understand, but I've been wearing a pale blue shirt with black trousers for years and no-one has 'winced'.
What about the neighbours ?.... :eek: :D
they'll only be jealous :eek:
Orange and red I can understand, but I've been wearing a pale blue shirt with black trousers for years and no-one has 'winced'.
I wear what i feel like, or more so what i have now. Cant really buy clothes now. I dont go out much anyway
I wear what i feel like, or more so what i have now. Cant really buy clothes now. I dont go out much anyway
Up your way, don't you mostly wear blue woad?
Up your way, don't you mostly wear blue woad?
Na. High heels and Lycra
Na. High heels and Lycra
Down my way it's high heels without tights! :doh:
pedcollings
16-09-2018, 20:40
Rather a plain looking cartridge is the Audio-Technica AT66, It's a very old budget cartridge, but sounds pretty good. Anyone any experience of these?
Had one in the late 60s. replaced an AT6 with it..
Clive197
20-09-2018, 15:17
Ortofon Anniversary - A95
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1847/43861171574_bd13a6723a_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29PRYd7)A95-side-510x510 (https://flic.kr/p/29PRYd7) by Robert Rowe (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152233952@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1885/30709246998_4696932140_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/NMEVeQ)A95-front-510x510 (https://flic.kr/p/NMEVeQ) by Robert Rowe (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152233952@N07/), on Flickr
https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1896/43669750305_54d30a1b45_z.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/29wWTkp)A95-510x510 (https://flic.kr/p/29wWTkp) by Robert Rowe (https://www.flickr.com/photos/152233952@N07/), on Flickr
Forget what other people think, I think you’ve got it right. STUNNING.
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