Miracle by Joseph long on Dynavector XX2MKII cartridge

In recent times, the issue of zenith error, as seen in the mounting of styli to cantilevers, has come to the fore as a major issue that can often compromise the alignment and therefore the performance of even the most expensive cartridges. This is because the two or three companies that make stylus/cantilever assemblies observe a QC that permits up to a 5 degree error in zenith. I don't know what error is tolerable if one is using a Lofgren or Stevenson alignment on an overhung, pivoted tonearm, but I have calculated that even a few degrees of error is sufficient to abrogate null points. So I wonder whether Joseph and other respected re-tippers are able to select for assemblies with zero or very low zenith error, when performing a replacement.  And additionally, I wonder whether they find it possible if replacing only the stylus to set the new stylus for zero or near zero error. If Joseph or Andy read this, I hope they can respond.

I was impressed with the breadth of Joseph's knowledge when I spoke to him, and I am even more impressed to read his emails to you.  Thanks for posting.

My only (minor and amusing actually) issue with Joseph was that when I discussed with him the re-tipping of my Koetsu Urushi, he laid out so many possibilities, nearly any combo of cantilever and stylus shape that one can think of, that I felt confused when I really wanted some guidance. He did seem like a fine person, and I would readily use his services. Partly for this reason, I would STILL like to know what cantilever and stylus shape were chosen by Islandman.

Of course I knew you’d made an innocent typo error. I think there is a Korean or Japanese company whose name at least begins with “Kom…”, who make earth moving equipment. Anyway, what cantilever and stylus has you so ecstatic?

You might let us know what cantilever and stylus shape you chose and is it the same as the OEM version? Kometsu [sic] makes good quality earth moving equipment, but I have never heard one of their cartridges. (Pun intended.)