New or used cartridge

@terry9
Dang man, unfortunately I’m on the opposite end here in Atlanta, and travel doesn’t agree with me. I’ve already come VERY close to blind ordering some of these silver-wired Lundhals before, and may end up doing so in the not-too-distant future. I guess if I were going to pick a horse right now, it would be the LL1943Ag, for the higher gain and traditional laminated core.

I already run & love pure silver for all my system cabling, and I’ve read that silver wiring in transformers makes an even bigger difference than it does for other wiring applications. Hence my strong interest in these LL's

I suggest that you talk to Kevin at K&K. He is highly expert and knows the Lundahl line inside out. After discussion, I changed my mind to order the 1931Ag's, and am very happy with the result. They are the best I've heard (not side-by-side, but still...) and that includes units many times their cost.

@handymann 
Sorry to veer off topic at various points. I can also report that I started out in Koetsu by buying used. I've gambled twice here on Audiogon with the purchase of used stone Plantinums (Onyx and Jade), both advertised in the ubiquitous "300ish hours" range, and was very satisfied with both results. Both sellers seemed to be enthusiasts, not dealers or high-volume cartridge flippers. That was several years ago, and I still have them now; I had the Onyx rebuilt last year.

Some people are adamant against used cartridge purposes, but it worked for me. Especially when you can get a full Koetsu rebuild for a reasonable cost. But I'd steer clear of the Soundsmith'd ones. 

Mulveling: No worries. Thanks for your advice and to others as well. I think, when I get around to it, I'll put my Urushi Black up for sale and perhaps get the Jade. Always appreciate all opinions.                                                 Steve

Cost/benefit ratio is very, very low when you hit the stratosphere of cartridges. I'd be very reluctant to sell your existing cartridge until you audition, or if necessary buy the new one and listen to it.  You may find that you've already attained a sufficient dose of audio nirvana!

I have an original Sugano era hand made Urushi and I wouldn't trade it for anything.

If you want to improve the system - why not look at other areas - what phono stage you have etc.?