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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

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yeti42
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Should you baulk at the rigid float a Schröder CB would be an excellent choice for an SPU N series, just make sure you order one with enough mass, somewhere around 20g or more with the brass mounting plate and order any fine adjustment options available.

I’m also running a Royal N but on a Schröder Reference and my expectations of a £1000 cartridge were far exceeded, once I’d got the setup tuned in. I bought the SPU as a stop gap and out of curiosity while I got my Transfiguration Proteus repaired but I haven’t been missing the Proteus and now it’s back, with a fresh stylus and suspension I’m in no hurry to fit it.

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