chakster ... i do not believe that stylus with 500 hrs on it can destroy any LP with simple play at correct VTF. The number of hours on a stylus is only one factor to assess. Cartridges that were not properly aligned when new often result in styli that are worn unevenly. Styli that were used to play dirty records are also subject to accelerated wear, and then of course there's the potential of damage just from mishandling.
If you're happy buying used cartridges with supposedly 500 hours on them, be my guest! But I don't buy used cartridges or used tires, and for many of the same reasons.
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chakster... many audiogon users claimed they're
fine with cartridges with 500hrs on it even if the profile is conical,
they do believe "it is well polished". And that's just fine if they're happy! I expect to get high performance from LP, so I wouldn't be happy with a conical stylus even if it was brand new. Conical styli have multiple issues, including that they just can't reproduce HF properly.
I'm fine with used vintage records purchased not from audiophiles, but
from the record dealers and private collectors (if the condition is
strong VG+ or better). Still better than 99% of the reissues. I've had great luck buying used records, too. I'm not sure if they're as superior to modern reissues as you claim - I have found great recordings and pressings from every era of recorded music. (Of course, the '70s with its oil shortage was the worst. But even then ... )
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chakster ... if an LP can be destroyed from one play then all those 30-40 y.o.
vintage LPs must be unlistenable, but they are better than new
reissues. That's the logical fallacy known as the excluded middle. It's certainly true that an LP can be destroyed with a single play; it's absurd to suggest all 30-year-old records have been improperly played.
Then there's the advantage of often being able to get good sound out of a damaged record by using a more modern stylus profile.
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vegasearsNo, buying a used cartridge is like buying a used tooth brush. I couldn't agree more. It amazes me that some here actually recommend used cartridges that have been out of production for decades.
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