Ortofon OM40 Suspension Issue


On my Rega Planar 6 I recently replaced my OM40 stylus (with about 750 hours on it) with a new OM40 stylus. The new stylus doesn’t sound quite right. It lacks detailI, sounds a little muddy and bass is often boomy.

When initially installing the stylus I carefully verified alignment and tracking force and both were spot on. I have reverified both a few times since and and both remain unchanged and accurate. I chalked up the poor sound to the stylus needing a break-in period. Now after about 40 hours of play time the sound hasn’t improved.

Wanting to explore the problem further, I used a digital microscope to check the VTA. In doing so I discovered, what looks like to me, a collapsed suspension. There has been no damage or trauma to the cartridge / stylus. I decided to install the “old” OM40 for comparison. Below I have a picture of the “new” stylus followed by the “old” stylus.

“New” OM40 with 40 hours
https://photos.app.goo.gl/qWz2ngpeDaTRNMEf7

“Old” OM40 with 750 hours
https://photos.app.goo.gl/7rWY3uoCFszYb294A

Do you think my assumption of a collapsed suspension is correct?

Thanks for your help.
vinylpaige
Yes. You need a new cartridge. Depending on your budget, there are several cartridges that mate very well with that table.
The VTA is different between the cartridges. The new one you have to raise the arm a centimeter or so. The new stylus is not cut as cleanly. You could complain and see if they give you a new stylus. This is why it is important to have a good relationship with a dealer. If you buy a lot from them they will take care of you.
Looks as more weight is added, but since all settings checked to be fine, consult your dealer.

G