Mono dedicated stylus?
 

So one of my favorite pressings as of recent is The Doors Strange Days RSD 2015 Mono release. I’m listening with Ortofon Quintet Black. My Technics arm has the easily removed headshell, so I am wondering how the Quintet Mono would perform. Both are 9g cartridge weight and 2.3g tracking force, and since they’re from the same series appear to have the same sized bodies which leafs me to believe it would be a straight swap with no adjustments needed to the tonearm. Output voltage and recommended loading are also the same so shouldn’t have to change any settings on the preamp either.

Assuming the above is correct, how will the mono cartridge perform on a mono recording vs. using the QB stereo cartridge to play the mono pressings? Is this even a true mono pressing or just identical tracks played on both L & R channels? Can someone with experience in mono recordings and cartridges tell me the basics I need to know and if I should be looking for a mono specific cartridge to swap out from time to time?

At one time I had the Lyra Helikon stereo and mono cartridges. Using the mono cartridge on mono recordings was clearly better IMHO.

Using the mono cartridge created more detail and separation due to less noise. Even on LP’s that you would hear clicks and pops when using a stereo cartridge you won’t here them or at least hear them less if you use a mono cartridge.

Bottom line if funds permit, get the mono cartridge. You won’t be disappointed.

Ditto, been there done that too, I would get a mono cart if you can and want to go that route for some of those specialties :)

It is my understanding that on reissues there isn't much to be gained over simply using the mono switch on your pre-amp. Original mono records benefit from a 1.0mil stylus because they were cut with those in mind vs a .7mil stylus. Everything today will be cut on a stereo lathe in any case.

This webpage from Ortofon details the differences in a mono vs. stereo record groove as well as the advantage in using a mono cartridge with mono records.

Yep, use a Mono cartridge- I use an Audio Technica AT3- Mono/LP.
Cost a 10th of my usual Audio Technica ART9, but far better sound for my Mono recordings.

That's a real testament to the benefit of a mono cartridge, thanks for sharing! :thumbsup:

Thank you all for the feedback!!!

Looks like the Ortofon 2m Mono SE might be my best choice as it’s listed as an all-around mono for older and modern pressings. Right now I have only the reissue (would this be a modern pressing or older since it’s a reissue of an old pressing?), but if I end up with a mono dedicated cartridge I will def. be keeping an eye out for more of them.

If you’ve read this far in the thread, please let me know your favorite mono pressings (esp anything 60’s/70’s classic rock).

I never understood why Ortofon is so confusing with stylus size. I have several different styli for my 78rpm setup and I know what 3.0mil is vs 2.5mil. I have no idea what size stylus a r/ R 6/50 µm is.

Generally when I'm buying albums from the mono & stereo era, I look for the mono pressings. In the early days of stereo it seems they were still trying to figure it out and you get a lot of needless ping pong effects between speakers. Get yourself a mono pressing of Pet Sounds if you're a fan. I'd also recommend the modern Analogue Productions mono versions of anything that interests you. IMO those pressings are second to none.

Have to admit, I was also dubious about using a Mono Cartridge, but with the AT being so cheap, gave it a go- glad I did.

Here is a Mono recommendation: Desmond Dekker- The Israelites. A long time favourite of mine.