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Calling All Analog Gurus! What to do about my vintage Signet TK7LCa?


I just took a chance on buying a Signet TK7LCa cartridge on eBay to try with my new Allnic H1201 phono stage. I got it yesterday, checked the stylus (looks straight), and mounted it on my Well Tempered Amadeus. Unfortunately, the sound is dull, dull, dull regardless of what settings I use with the Allnic. I cleaned the stylus, so that is not the issue.

Am I correct in assuming that the stylus is just worn out and will need to be replaced? Are there other things I should try? What are my best options? What would you do?

Thanks in advance for any and all helpful tips. I continue to have high hopes for this cartridge despite this inauspicious debut.
128x128waltersalas
ebm
9,311 posts
 
The last place to buy a cartridge is ebay  good luck!! 
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cleeds
5,944 posts
 
With a used phono cartridge, anything could go wrong.
acman3
4,237 posts
 
Walter, if you bought the cartridge on the 24th, we at least know it is an actual TK7 stylus and not a aftermarket stylus. I would set it up with a positive VTA. Butt UP, cartridge down. 

The Signet TK7LCa is one of my favorite MM cartridges, and maybe your stylus is worn, but I do remember several  people including the former MM guru turned digital fan, Raul, saying they did not like it, and used the term "Fumigate" to describe  it. I think if you are used to the sound of most modern MC cartridges, it will sound dull. 

So work with the VTA and if you still don't like it, have it looked at by a cartridge rebuilder and go from there.



acman3
4,237 posts
 
One more thing, If you bought the Signet on 24th it has a 30 day return. I would probably return it, if I did not like it.
waltersalas's avatar
waltersalas OP
952 posts
 

Acman3, thanks for some useful feedback. I am going to give it another cleaning tomorrow, including the old Magic Eraser approach, and will also fiddle with the VTA. I have the VTF at about 1.5g--does that sound about right to you?

I didn't pay very much for the cartridge, so if I can send it to Soundsmith or the Needle Clinic for a more thorough cleaning or retipping, I would still consider it a good investment. The best way I can think of to describe the sound is "sanded off." I did not expect the level of detail I got with my previous Dynavector, but I cannot believe that the Signet is supposed to be this muffled.

In any case, I appreciate your tips and will give your suggestions a try.
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