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Cartridge new or used ?

How do I know if a cartridge is new or used and number of hours played ? 1- If it is bought from an individual or 2- Could it be that a HiFi store sells used or a "Demo" without anyone knowing it? 3- Is a cartridge that remains on the shelf of the store for 3 or 4 years, retains its same performance or its internal parts, can harden and lose their flexibility of reading? 4- Is it easy with a magnifying glass to see the wear of a cartridge, if so what would be the best magnification to use?
audiosens
acman3
4,237 posts
 
Schubert, that is sweet! You will be happy for a while.

I buy used. Listening with a FR-1 Mk 3f as I type. Try finding one new. 


sleepwalker65's avatar
sleepwalker65
832 posts
 
Wanting a used cartridge is like wanting to eat used food. Not my choice. ‘Nuff said.
lewm
13,008 posts
 
Disgusting.
uberwaltz's avatar
uberwaltz
13,381 posts
 
What is it with all the wet necks and used cartridges!
Use your head and common sense when shopping and you will be fine. Remember that one, common sense, that's right the least common of all senses nowadays it seems!
I have bought and sold many used cartridges here and on eBay.
There still are a LOT of very honest people in this hobby.
How else is one to try and acquire and use some of the better vintage mm carts apart from taking the plunge and buying used?

If you do not want to take a chance personally that's fine but do NOT denigrate the process as a whole!
sleepwalker65's avatar
sleepwalker65
832 posts
 
There are many dishonest people on fleabay and you have no way of telling before you commit to purchasing, because fleabay protects its insider club sellers by doctoring the feedback info that’s published. 
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