Just mounted a 25 yr old cartridge...and it kicks!

[Josquin des Prez]

The back story first...

I have a Rega RP3 TTPSU with a Dynavector 20x2H. For whatever reason the rig doesn't mesh well with my room and system, it just isn't synergistic. It interacts too much with the room and sub and is too susceptible to rumble and getting the woofers pumping. What's worse, is something is wrong with the cartridge. The cantilever has collapsed or something, and there is only about a 1/2 mm clearance between record surface and cartridge body. With a slight warp you can hear it bump. I dropped it off at the dealer, but learned today the DV rep won't be in for a week or so. So I took it back home.

Meanwhile, I have a Goldring Electro II LZ Type-A low output MC cartridge. I got this cartridge when I worked for the -- at the time -- U.S. Rega and Goldring importer. That was 25 years ago! I only ever put a few hours on this cartridge because I also had a Goldring GL that I put on my LP12 of the time. So this Electro II sat in a box for 25 years.

Anyway, I decided to remove the Dynavector and mount the Goldring. I had no expectation of it even working. However, not only does it work, but it really sounds pretty damn good. Right off the bat it has good PRaT. It is not as detailed in the high end as the DV 20x2H, but it's close and is a bit more luscious sounding in the midrange (almost how the Clearaudio rep described the Maestro Wood to me). It also is not as punchy, and a bit less open in the high end. Nevertheless, this is a fine cartridge.

I fully expect this to not last very long given its age, but I sure am enjoying it at the moment.

I ordered my new rig today, but it won't likely ship to me until late July: Clearaudio Performance DC with Carbon Verify tonearm and Maestro Wood cartridge.

[bakerman]

Great story Dean. Isn't it nice when something you were expecting to fall flat on its face throws you for a loop! Who knows, you might enjoy this current rig so much that when the Clearaudio comes in you'll just keep it boxed up for a while....nah!

Enjoy it while it lasts!

[Josquin des Prez]

Originally Posted by bakerman

Great story Dean. Isn't it nice when something you were expecting to fall flat on its face throws you for a loop! Who knows, you might enjoy this current rig so much that when the Clearaudio comes in you'll just keep it boxed up for a while....nah!

Enjoy it while it lasts!

I can't keep the Rega. I need it in trade for the new table. Besides, I already sold off my Groovetracer upgrades.

This is what I have on order...

[ehoove]

Nice! I know you will enjoy it!
Regards,
Jim

[ehoove]

I know what you mean, I have a Denon DL103D that continuues to amaze me in my Vintage Rig.
Regards,
Jim

[Josquin des Prez]

I finally found out what is going on with my defective Dynavector 20x2H. The rep got back, examined it under a microscope and determined it has a weak suspension. That was pretty much my analysis when I said the cantilever had collapsed. That's the second 20x2H in a row that has gone bad. It will be replaced on my Rega this week.

Doesn't matter too much since I will have a whole new table and cartridge in about two months.

[AndyPandy]

Gosh Dean
You must be excited mate. That Clear Audio will be a cracker and I am sure you will love it. Think how much fun you will have spinning! Super glad you have a wall shelf - I found the CA Performance super sensitive to foot fall's etc.

In the meantime enjoy your Goldring - btw I am also have a 20xH that I'm not so sure doesn't have a problem. But then again I have an XX2 now, so its in the drawer.

Have a great weekend.

[Josquin des Prez]

Originally Posted by AndyPandy

Gosh Dean
You must be excited mate. That Clear Audio will be a cracker and I am sure you will love it. Think how much fun you will have spinning! Super glad you have a wall shelf - I found the CA Performance super sensitive to foot fall's etc.

In the meantime enjoy your Goldring - btw I am also have a 20xH that I'm not so sure doesn't have a problem. But then again I have an XX2 now, so its in the drawer.

Have a great weekend.

I look forward to the new turntable. I think that Goldring is showing its age. It doesn't always sound right.

I will also be getting a used pair of Dynaudio Contour S3.4s next week to audition at home. Assuming they check out, they will replace my Contour S1.4s with stands which I will be selling very soon.

My turntable wall bracket is an old Target bracket. I bought that in 1986 when I got my Linn Sondek LP12.