AKG P8ES Super Nova Van d. Hul

[F575M]

Hi Chaps,

Again looking for another highly regarded MM cartridge. Someone offered me a brand new, sealed box, AKG P8ES Super Nova Van d. Hul for £176. I have read old posts regarding the suspension problems.

Worth the price for my 3009 non improved?

Cheers,

Horacio

[Barry]

I have a 'standard' AKG P8ES, which I used in an SME 3009/S2. IMO, one of the best sounding fixed-coil cartridges that has been through my hands.

[Blackdog]

I used a P8ES for years. Never had suspension problems. I wish i could find another.

[Barry]

I used a P8ES for years. Never had suspension problems. I wish i could find another.

Neither did I, but it was the standard version with an elliptical stylus, not the later version with the vdH stylus. It's possible with the later vdH versions the suspension rubber was changed.

I used to use ADC 25/26 cartridges. These had an absurdly high compliance and thus used a very solf rubber suspension, the rubber would often perish with time and the suspension collapse.

[F575M]

You could be right. I did an extensive web search but I was unable to find a review or a comment about the Super Nova. It may have been built in limited quantities.

[worrasf]

I paid £176 for one back in 2011 (https://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?12851-AKG-P8ES-Super-Nova) so you've got a good deal. As per the quoted post I sent mine off for checking and the suspension was stiff and did require a rebuild. I kept it for use on my TD150 but in the end preferred the Decca Supergold on this TT so moved it on to Charlie Chan (topxoforddoc) - I think he was pleased with it.

[DSJR]

Watch the body and don't flex it! The internal coil wires break very easily as did mine. The original styli were horribly made but a VDH one should do wonders if well set up.

[Marco]

Hi Dave,

Nice to see you dropping in mate, and hope you're well and staying safe:)

Please don't be such a stranger in future:cool:

Marco.

[topoxforddoc]

I paid £176 for one back in 2011 (https://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?12851-AKG-P8ES-Super-Nova) so you've got a good deal. As per the quoted post I sent mine off for checking and the suspension was stiff and did require a rebuild. I kept it for use on my TD150 but in the end preferred the Decca Supergold on this TT so moved it on to Charlie Chan (topxoforddoc) - I think he was pleased with it.

Hi Stephen, I am indeed pleased with it :)

[worrasf]

Hi Stephen, I am indeed pleased with it :)Excellent !

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