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How to choose a cartridge you can't hear on your system?

My personal cartridge history has gone from a humble Goldring to a decent Benz H2 and finally a Dynavector XV-1s.  Recently my 3 year old decided to break the needle on both my Dynavector and Benz (two arm setup).  This tragedy prompted a me to send my Dynavector out for re-tipping and the purchase of a new cartridge to sustain me through the expected rebuild period.  I bought a decent Sumiko Evo III.  

All of this is to come around to a realization.  In many ways, each cartridge brings something new to the table.  The Evo II had more solidity or weight to the sonic presentation than the others.  The Benz had a seductive warmth and the Dynavector a detailed nuance I most enjoyed.  I don't think it is possible to know ahead of hearing a cartridge in ones own system which brands house sound one prefers.  

I find cartridges to be the hardest audio component to buy.  How do you choose?  
chadlesko

Showing 1 response by zavato

zavato's avatar
zavato
1,410 posts
 
Years ago I asked a dealer how can I realistically compare cartridges and his answer was “you have to trust a dealer”

The first cartridge I had on my table (LP12) was a Linn K9 which I liked. I later switched to a Rega Exact. Not thrilled with it and I sold it. Moved to a Troika- that didn’t do it for me. Sold it too. Next move to an Arkiv B. Bingo. Loved it. 

So, for me it was trial and error.

Come to think of it, I did much the same in the 70’s. Had an ADC K6E. It was ok. Tried a Stanton then an Empire. Eh. Went to a Shure V15 Type 3. Bingo, and after many years bought a V15 Type 5, which I though was ok but in some ways I liked the Type 3 better. Then a dealer recommended an Adcom cartridge which was fun. 

So- trial and error but I understand that can be dicey with expensive cartridges. 
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