2. analog
  3. 147418-7

Cartridge issues need suggestions

I am having issues with my Transfiguration Proteus - the left channel is cutting out.  It starts with a strong center  image then in a few seconds it drifts to the right intermittently, almost like someone is turning the balance control very fast.  Then it stays far right but I still have faint output in the left channel and sometimes some feedback like the stylus is out of line. 

It is not my tubes in the phono section because I checked that with my backup and it does the same thing.  I have rechecked overhang, cantilever alignment with my protractor, VTF - nothing has changed.  The only thing I haven’t adjusted is anti-skate and haven’t since initial setup.  Azimuth is set on a Basis Vector 4.  I took it off and upon visual inspection the it looks ok - the cantilever is straight but it might have shifted slightly to the left.  I can’t be sure.

Anyone had this issue - I never have...thanks for any feedback!
pops

Showing 3 responses by larryi

larryi
3,783 posts
 
I just saw that you switched cartridges and the problem is the Transfiguration.  The builder died not too long ago, and, I believe, production has stopped so there might not be a way to get Transfiguration to check on your problem.  Rebuilders/re-tippers would be able to do something if the problem is with the stylus, but, it sounds like a problem with the wiring (winding of the coil) and that might not be repairable.  

You might want to talk to Bob Clarke at Profundo; he is or was the U.S> distributor of Transfiguration.
larryi
3,783 posts
 
You need to systematically determine where the problem lies, and not assume it is the cartridge.  Because you think it is the cartridge, start at that end.  Switch the left and right wiring of the wires at the pins of the cartridge.  If the problem changes sides, then it is the cartridge that is causing the problem.  If it doesn't switch sides, the problem is somewhere downstream of the cartridge (tonearm wiring, interconnect to phono stage, etc.).  You can work backwards switching left and right.to isolate the source of your problem.  Intermittent fading or loss of signal is often a problem with an interconnect or a problem at the jack where the inteconnect feeds into.  
larryi
3,783 posts
 
That is a bit of a scary option.  If there is an open circuit because of a bad solder connection of the wires from the coil to the pin, that might cure the problem.  But, if you apply heat too long (something pretty hard to judge) you might cause all kinds of additional damage.

I would NOT do this myself until the cartridge has been sent to an expert for examination.  If you get it back with the word that it is junk, then maybe it is worth a try.  BUT NEVER before.

Send it to SoundSmith or others that do this kind of work.  
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