vdH cartridges can be extremely finicky. Additionally wide variations between cartridges, even the same model, are not unusual.
That being said, if you happen to find a good one and set it up properly both Colibri and Black Beauty can be breathtaking cartridges. Spectacular dynamics and detail.
Disclaimer- I purchased a Condor from the North American distributor last year as a precursor to picking up the line. I mounted it in 4 different tonearms (high quality products by most standards) and couldn't get it to track properly. The distributor, Bluebird Audio, insisted the cartridge was not installed properly and offered to have their 29 year old tech guy pay me a visit. I laughed and told them a cartridge exchange would be more appropriate.
Anyway, I sent the cartridge back and 10 weeks later (that's right 10 weeks) my money was refunded. A few weeks after they told their US representative, not me directly, that the cartridge was indeed defective.
So, if your purchase in any way, shape, or form may involve Bluebird Audio, I suggest re-thinking your current strategy.
Good luck.
That being said, if you happen to find a good one and set it up properly both Colibri and Black Beauty can be breathtaking cartridges. Spectacular dynamics and detail.
Disclaimer- I purchased a Condor from the North American distributor last year as a precursor to picking up the line. I mounted it in 4 different tonearms (high quality products by most standards) and couldn't get it to track properly. The distributor, Bluebird Audio, insisted the cartridge was not installed properly and offered to have their 29 year old tech guy pay me a visit. I laughed and told them a cartridge exchange would be more appropriate.
Anyway, I sent the cartridge back and 10 weeks later (that's right 10 weeks) my money was refunded. A few weeks after they told their US representative, not me directly, that the cartridge was indeed defective.
So, if your purchase in any way, shape, or form may involve Bluebird Audio, I suggest re-thinking your current strategy.
Good luck.