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Fidelity Research FR-7 Repair

I have a FR-7 cartridge that got wacked in a move and looks bent. I was looking to send it in for repair. I see Soundsmith and cartridge_retipping-5 on ebay. I was wondering if anyone had any recommendations on this. 

I thought about buying a replacement (FR-7 or FR-7f) on ebay but considering the age of these cartridges thought I might be opening myself up to being in the same position I am now. Figured repair would be cheaper. 

I'm using on an FR-64 tonearm and a Brooks Berdan modded Oracle turntable with a Cotter SUT. In the time this has been down I've tried other cartridges but nothing has the magic of the FR cartridge.  Thanks in advance for any insights.
letch
lohanimal
659 posts
 
I am watching this with interest as i am looking at an fr7 cartridge

sdrsdrsdr
196 posts
 
Soundsmith would be my only choice in North America. Excellent work. I have much experience with  Soundsmith. Van den hul for Europe. But more expensive. Could possibly be the best in the world though from what I’ve heard.
nandric's avatar
nandric
4,086 posts
 
letch, What do you mean with 'wacked in a move?'' Bent aluminum
cantilevers can be straitened. But if the stylus is wear off you can
retip your cart with boron cantilever + whatever stylus  you chose
for about $ 500. 
chakster's avatar
chakster
6,144 posts
 
Look for perfectly working FR-7fz (instead of FR-7 or FR-7f)
letch OP
109 posts
 
@nandric 
Well, it's definitely bent. I would prefer a professional look at it. Sounds like Soundsmith is the way to go. I suppose they can tell me what's best for repair and possible replacement. Considering I got it used and then played it for many years before the damage, it might be a "let's fix it up to last a long time" situation. I'll contact Soundsmith and get ready to ship. 
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