Denon DL-302 rebuild thoughts


While going through my desk drawer I rediscovered a Denon 302 cart with missing cantilever and stylus. I reached out to VAS and Steve quoted me different options to repair. The aluminum canti and elliptical ($175) is most cost effective and closest to original specs. He also offered aluminum with line contact ($250), aluminum with microridge ($300) and boron with microridge options ($450).

I never got to play the 302 before the canti broke, so have no idea how it sounds. There’s not much info about it on the web. It’s also got a really low output but should have that covered with a step transformer I can put to use with this cart. Looking for feedback on whether moving up the line with the canti and stylus options would be make an appreciable sonic difference versus the original aluminum and elliptical design. Thx!

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Well, it’s a nice cartridge to be sure, and you can’t replace it for the rebuild fee.  If you’re a fan of the Denon sound, (I am), then I would do it.  It’s a small price for the years of use you’ll get from it.

Norman

Thanks for the input JasonBourne52. @normansizemore you didn’t mention which canti/stylus combo you think might sound best on the 302?