Hi Chris,
Thanks for the response. I'm not in the market right now, as I got a 420 from Nandric, but wanted to know for future reference. Maybe if the price is right on the 415, I might try it out for comparison purposes...
Regards,
Mark |
Recently acquired an Acutex 420STR from another member and just finished the install on my system. Initial tracking force 1.5g, VTA around zero (hard to eyeball to be sure...suggestions from others certainly appreciated!).
The 420 replaced a Grado Ref Platinum. Had to remove a thin lead c'weight, due to the lighter weight of the 420. Counterweight slide is a little past 4 on the scale. My first test track was "Mas que nada", Sergio Mendez & Brasil '66. The sibilance on this track is usually a good indicator to me of cart compliance and treble performance. The cart picked everything up without a problem. My initial impression is that I will be experiencing a lot more detail than the Grado was able to provide.
I'll continue to update the group as I run through my usual evaluation tracks and the cart settles in. Thanks to Frogman, Chris and Nandric for their advise and assistance in making this upgrade!
Regards,
Mark |
I have been a "lurker" on Audiogon for a little while, but when I saw this thread on ET tonearms, I couldn't resist submitting a post.
I purchased my ET2 back in 1997, installed it on my HW-19 Mk3, and have used it ever since. I recently upgraded my system, which includes a Precision Fidelity preamp, Ladyday+ Mk2 Signature mono blocks and a pair of 70's vintage Klipsch LaScalas. I listen to a lot of female vocalists and Jazz, as well as blues.
I'm currently using a Grado Reference Platinum, but it is getting quite a few hours on it, and I am at the point that I should either re-tip or upgrade. I have never had any issues with the setup (no hum), but would like to make sure I'm using the right cartridge . My question is - should I stick with the Grado or look at another cartridge?
I would prefer to stay with a MM cartridge and I would like to keep the cost at no more than $500. I have been reading with great interest the posts about the 420 STR, but their lack of availability is an issue.
Anyway, thanks for your inputs in advance and thanks for a great thread devoted to a great tonearm!
Mark |
Hi Frogman,
Thanks so much for the advice on finding a 420, as well as the tip on stabilizing the plinth suspension on the table.
My ET2 is basically the way it came from the factory, with no tweaks or modifications performed. I look forward to applying some of the suggestions in the thread and will definitely keep everyone updated.
Regards,
Mark |
Chris,
Thanks for the response. I'll definitely follow yours and Frogman's advice on the 420 search.
My ET2 still has the original Takatsuki pump, and while I have not noted any problems with the pump, I plan on going through the arm completely once I have located a new cartridge. I have a feeling that with my system, any changes in the cartridge/tonearm setup will be noticeable...should be a fun process.
Regards,
Mark |
Chris/Frogman,
Changed the c'weight to get it out to 6...although I have both I-beams, I have always used the double spring, as I felt it sounded better.
No problems with the lead wires...tucked the extra wire into the arm tube, and it fit OK...close, though. If you have long lead clips, forget it!
This cart is quiet!!! Now sounds very linear, with some added emphasis in treble, which is good, as my 300b setup tends to sound a little dark.
Listened to "Famous Blue Raincoat" yesterday, along with a 45 version of "Rumours"...the additional detail really brings a smile to my face.
Will contine to update you as the cart breaks in...
Regards, Mark |
Fellow ET-2 owners,
Surplus Center has a quantity of Medo AC0110 pumps available for $19.99 each. I bought one the other day to try out and found that it delivered a steady 6psi to my arm and was fairly quiet compared to my stock Takatsuki pump. The 30 minute duty cycle is a bit troubling, but found that after 30 minutes the pump didn't get too hot. I got a second pump and plan to hook them up to a surge tank and see what happens...Here's the link: https://www.surpluscenter.com/item.asp?item=4-1894&catname=
I would appreciate others thoughts on using this particular pump.
Regards,
Mark |
Hi Guys,
Sorry I've been absent from the thread, but had to travel last week on biz...
Slaw, thanks for the additional input. I purchased a second pump, just to be sure...
Again, thanks to Nikola for selling me his last 420...I am indeed enjoying it very much!
Finally, there have been a couple of NOS 412's on eBay this week...don't know if they are worthy of consideration.
Best regards,
Mark |
Sorry Guys, my bad...
I originally stated that there were a couple of Acutex 412's for sale on eBay, but in reality there is one 412 and one 415. I would copy in links, but am not in a position to do so.
I would be interested in other's opinions on these two cartridges in the ET2...
Regards,
Mark |
