I may be wrong, but I think that the SS fees do include rebuilding suspension, as much as needed, and I don't see why you need an "evaluation". You know darn well your cantilever is snapped off. I believe you can choose the stylus and cantilever you want from the SS menu, agree to pay the fee for whatever combo you like, and that's that. But it will be interesting to learn about an alternative service. Please keep us posted.
Can't get answer from Soundsmith on retipping ques
.....so figured I would ask it here:). Would appreciate an answer from anyone, esp. from those with experience with Soundsmith. Here's the question I asked, which they've not answered (they returned my call once, leaving a message that said it was answered in the FAQs at http://www.sound-smith.com/retip/, which it's not, and then didn't return two subsequent calls):
"Suppose I have an older (say, one mfd. 15-30 years ago) MC cartridge, and I send it in for replacement of the cantilever+stylus. Even if the cartridge is undamaged, aren't there other concerns, simply because of the cartridge's age, that typically need to be addressed -- for instance, hardening of the elastomer the supports the cantilever, or oxidized coils? If so, what are those typical concerns and how do you usually address them (added cost, etc.)?"
[BTW, the cartridges in question are a Dynavector Ruby DV23R (~30 yo), and an Ortofon MC3000 MkII (~15 yo).]
Also asked them their current turn-around time for cantilever+stylus replacement -- they didn't answer that either.
Thanks!
"Suppose I have an older (say, one mfd. 15-30 years ago) MC cartridge, and I send it in for replacement of the cantilever+stylus. Even if the cartridge is undamaged, aren't there other concerns, simply because of the cartridge's age, that typically need to be addressed -- for instance, hardening of the elastomer the supports the cantilever, or oxidized coils? If so, what are those typical concerns and how do you usually address them (added cost, etc.)?"
[BTW, the cartridges in question are a Dynavector Ruby DV23R (~30 yo), and an Ortofon MC3000 MkII (~15 yo).]
Also asked them their current turn-around time for cantilever+stylus replacement -- they didn't answer that either.
Thanks!