Rookie questions - toneam and cartridge


Hi all! I'm fairly new to the analog scene and I'm hoping I can get some good advice. I recently aquired an older JVC turntable. I know that's not a name that inspires any awe in the turntable world, but this model (QL-Y66F) seems very well built and in excellent shape. At any rate, it's just an experiment for me...

My first question regards the tonearm. The unit came with two tonearms - one S-shaped and the other straight. The manual mentions them both but says nothing about why one would choose one over the other. Can anyone give me some insight here?

My second question is about the choice of cartridge. Currently the unit has a Shure M91ED. I have no idea what the condition is, but I have found several place which stock replacement stylii for this cartridge, so it would be easy and cheap enough to freshen it up. The question is whether or not to bother. Is this a decent and appropriate cartridge for the turntable or should I look into another cartridge altogether? And if so (new cartridge), what would be a good suggestion in an inexpensive cartridge? I don't want to over-equip the turntable in terms of a high-end cartridge. If I decide I like analog enough, I'll likely dump this turntable in time and pick up something better.

Thanks for your suggestions,
RLW
phydeaux

Showing 3 responses by phydeaux

Thanks everyone for the information and your suggestions. I'll certainly look into getting a better cartridge. Fortunately, I have not yet heard this unit (and been turned off by the poor cartridge), since I first must get a preamp with a phono stage - but that's a whole 'nother story...

Regards,
RLW
Jim - Well, that's what I meant by "a whole 'nother story...". You see, I'm kind of a minimalist kind of guy and right now I don't own a preamp. I have a CD player with a variable output directly connected to my power amp. I love the way it sounds and I'm loathe to change it, but obviously I must...

RLW
I'm a little reluctant to buy an used cartridge since I wouldn't know a damaged or worn out one unless it was obvious.

I did find a new Grado Reference Platinum for $175. I haven't purchased it yet, but I'm considering it...

(I find it strange that the body is made out of mahogany)

Any comments?

RLW