Decca cartridge experiences


I really don't expect any response to this as the issue of Deccas, and all the controversies they stirred up is now passé, but does anyone out there own and use a Decca, and if so, did you find a tonearm which will accomodate it? I'd appreciate it if anyone shared their experiences with it, good or bad. I've found two tonearms in which it will work well: one a Mayware tonearm in which it works superbly, and one a Maplenoll air-bearing 'table with fluid damping trough, but I'm having a bit of trouble getting this combo to work again (I've only recently re-acquired the Maplenoll)...I'll have to fiddle with viscosity, amount of fluid and so on.

To all those who haven't had a chance to hear this cartridge, and who like to experiment and have fun (and tear their hair out), then a Decca still has the most slam of any cartridge, and retrieves an incredible amount of detail from the groove. Though these days it no longer sells for pocket change (the Super Gold goes for $850, but there are cheaper models), it's still not in the stratosphere like so many others. It is dificlt to find a tonearm which will accomodate it as well.

I'd appreciate as well any experiences with the new versions, as I hear the new stylus profile makes it less difficult. I think the responses will be "0", but any cartridge which stirred up this much controversy (at least a while ago) is Good News, like the Shelter (which is far more accomodating, however)...Thank you for your attention, if any attention there is...
johnnantais

Showing 5 responses by rwd

Oh boy, I had to jump in!!! Yes, I remember this cartridge! I had two..(the London Gold). They were fabulous!!!! I connected the wires (3) and left the forth one just suspended. I had no problems with hum?? I was using a Formular 4 arm. This question sparked some curiousity....I may look for a used Decca soon. I am wondering if it would mate with my VPI 10.5??
Also, what is the best way to deal with the 4th tonearm cable?? Do you let it float like I did??
So tell me......is it best to look for a London Decca (gold) that is used, say on e-bay or go with new? I see Needle Dr. sells Decca's. I assume they are new versus used.
My memory of the fabulous Decca London Gold just keeps on fluttering in my mind!! I remember listening to it in a word class system. The speakers were Infinity Servo Static 1-A's and the electronics were ARC SP 3A-1 and D 76A & 51.

I was never able to get the Servos (anyone have an idea where I can find a pair??) but I CAN get a Decca!! However, I think I want to stay with the Gold or Super Gold.
I have two arm wands for my VPI 10.5 and I could mount the Decca on one and keep my Helikon on the other. I'm searching e-bay for a deal on a used Decca. If I can't find one then I get a new one for the Dr.
No...the servos that I heard were in New Jersey and were owned by the great Jim Foley. He had a magnificent set up and a wonderful ear for listening. What a great experience that was!!!