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 what turntable are you going to put the SPU on? Is it a VPI? Sounds like you’ve kinda gone off the deep end picking up the various flavors of SPU. 😉 Plus that FR7... Should be fun experimenting with them all. Also, I’m a little fuzzy what arm you were thinking of. The Schick? Please do follow up here for those of us (like me) who are still on the fence about picking up an SPU. Markus |
