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Decided to try a SPU cartridge

I’ve been fascinated that the SPU (Stereo Pick-Up) cartridges, which was invented over 60yrs ago in 1958, still has loyal fans today. The SPU is reported to have a big, bold, exuberant and musically exciting character.

While researching, the best SPU cartridge may be the Ortofon SPU Century. I found one new at a greatly discounted price so I took the plunge.

Normally, it’s best to demo before purchasing. But because I’m going for sonic variety rather than improvement, the SPU’s sonic description and market longevity is enough for me to feel confident it’ll be a good experience. Besides, trying to track down a SPU demo in this Covid environment may be a pain.

In addition, I’ll probably purchase a Ortofon SPU Classic GM E MkII to experience the “original” SPU sound. Other SPUs I may try are Ortofon’s SPU Meister Silver GM MkII, SPU Synergy GM, SPU Royal GM MkII, SPU Wood A.

Next I’ll have to get a SPU tonearm. The usual suspects are Thomas Schick, Groovemaster II, and Ikeda. I wonder what’s the best SPU tonearm?

I suspect that tonearm cables upgrades won’t yield enough sonic improvements for SPUs.

kennyc

Showing 1 response by racedoc

racedoc
80 posts
 

First of all I really love the SPU sound. Actually I own a GM E and a Synergy.

They give a fine contrast to the sound of my different DS Audio cartridges.

 

For the "normal" SPUs you should work with a SUT to get most out of them.

My Synergys don´t need that. They offer the best sound with a MC-phonostage

and between 33 and 47 Ohm.

 

The match of SPUs with a ViV Rigid Float is a perfect one. Balancing and

adjusting is an ease and they singing in the best possible way.

 

The reason why ViV is not mentioning the effective mass is the fact that

this doen´t matters. The oil bearing of the arm makes them suitable for

all kinds of cartridges. I personally tried many different cart from light

MMs (Grace, Victor, Ortofon 2m...), heavier HO-carts (Jico Seto Hori, 

Acoustical Systems Fideles...), lightwight MCs (ZYX), normal MCs 

(eg. Ortofon Vero, Ortofon Cadenza) up to SPU As and Gs.

 

ALL of them sounded the best way they can. -> perfect match

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