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Alphason HR 100 MCS - Re-wire or not?

Today I picked up an Alphason HR 100 MCS in very good condition to try on my Kuzma Stabi Ref. I wanted something with a little more character to complement the 4Point I have been using.

I installed a Dynavector XX2 from my Rega P8 and listened. It sounded thin, bass-light and had that characteristic smooth but metallic sound that silver cable often has. The XX2 sounded excellent on my P8 and nothing at all like this.

A bit disappointed, I tried a Benz Ruby Z - much better. The bass was suddenly deep, the metallic colouration was mostly gone and it was incredibly tight, dynamic and tuneful. Still a shade lean but I don’t mind that, particularly as a contrast to the full-sounding 4Point.

The arm appears to be in great condition, with original wiring. But I have read mixed reviews of the VDH silver wiring in the MCS version. I am wondering whether there is real benefit in sending the arm somewhere like Audio Origami for a re-wire with Cardas cable and a general health check. Would it lose its character with different wiring? Has anyone done this and felt it was an improvement or not?

Also, should I really be looking out for higher compliance cartridges for the HR100? The Benz is 15cu compared to 10 for the DV which could explain why it is a much better match. I could also pick up a VDH cartridge which I think are quite high compliance. Any other cartridge suggestions for this arm - or cartridges to avoid?
https://i.postimg.cc/05CcYSht/IMG-4850.jpg
rossb

Showing 1 response by teo_audio

teo_audio
2,197 posts
 
The alphason tends to like lighter bodied cartridges. Or, to be more specific, cart bodies of the right composition. 

Since you are familiar with the lack of head-shell twist available,  you can negotiate the alphason's curves of use.
the alphason is not all that damped, but it does not need much damping, due to it's low mass, and aspects of self damping. It's damping capacity is effective when handled within it's range.

Cartridges that work well with the rega arm may introduce too much energy into the alphason. And thus a bit more color than one wants.

This may help a bit:

https://www.vinylengine.com/turntable_forum/viewtopic.php?t=10828
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