I agree with Hdm, you'll get a broader view from respondents by posting this question at the VinylAsylum. I can't comment on the Goldring 1012, but I can tell you the higher up the line Goldring 1042 rocks REAL good, I really like that cartridge's boogie factor. I quite enjoy that one, it aquits itself very well in just about every respect. For the cost of a stylus upgrade at retail, you might be able to find an even better catridge that's lightly used. The Goldring 1042 is also the basis of the Roksan Corus, I've seen that one here as a demo for a very good price recently.
Cartridge choice? Ortofon or Goldring
I recently purchased a Music Hall mmf 5 and I really love this turntable. Right now I am using it with a Ortofon Super OM10 because it was broken in and I didn't want to wait for the Goldring to losen up. Thinking of upgrading to a OM30 stylus or should I go with the Goldring 1012GX? The only reseverations I have about the Goldring is that the edge of stylus holder seems to ride a bit too close to the record. I am using an Old Marantz 2252B that's in really nice shape as an amplifier. For speakers I am using a pair Cerwin Vega LS 10s. I mostly play rock from the 70s and 80s on vinyl that is either mint or in excellent condition. What do you think? Does anybod know where I can find some reviews on the Ortofon cartridges?