2. analog
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Ortofon --- A90 or SPU 90th?

Trying to decide between an Ortofon A90 or SPU 90th. They both utilize a lot of the same technologies.

Rest of system is Garrard 301 (grease), Schick 12" G-style Tonearm, Shindo Masseto/Cortese, Devore Nines.

I'm a relative newcomer to vinyl and trying to do it right the first time. I've heard great things about both cartridges but heard neither personally. I've also never heard an SPU in general so not sure what kind of sound characteristic differences i would see between an SPU type and non-SPU type cartridge.

Thoughts?
jcote
jcote OP
100 posts
 
Interesting info. Juki is actually asking for higher than retail on the SPU 90th...I know it's limited edition but seems strange for a few year old cart. I've read the Schick does really well with SPU so think this is probably where I should start. Maybe I should give the Classic E a shot to see if I actually like the SPU sound first and if not then I can switch to a typical MC type cart.

Going back to the A90 and Schick combo though, is the consensus that this is not a good match?
wrm57
1,040 posts
 
Jcote,

The SPU 90 was a limited edition when made but now, long discontinued, it's pretty scare, hence the premium. IMO, to get the most out of an A90 youneed to be able to really fine-tune VTA, etc., like you can with a Tri-planar or Graham or Clearaudio Universal arm.

Best,
Bill
wrm57
1,040 posts
 
Uh, that should say, "it's pretty scarce, hence the premium." Please excuse.
mechans
3,048 posts
 
What a nice choice to be making. The rest of your life should be so complicated. They both have tons of cache.
The SPU is such an Iconic cartridge that I would find it hard to resist. But--- I have heard the A90 and it is an outstanding cart that digs up every detail on the record and sets a new standard for "high definition" my apologies to ARC.
I see that you are going for the SPU I am pretty sure you will like it a great deal.
jcote OP
100 posts
 
In a surprise change of events I just picked up the Soundsmith retipped Goldbug Ms. Brier LOMC cartridge recently posted here for sale. This rare cartridge has very high marks and I feel it will be an excellent pairing to my setup. Now I can take my time to find an SPU in due course as I still want to try my hand at one.

Now to figure out what headshell to use...
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