A pragmatic view of cartridge expenses / many questions


Trying to see what your thoughts are on cartridge expenses? Do you buy cartridges and replace or retip after it’s worn? Cartridges are like tires for cars in some ways. You have to replace the tires after they wear out.

If you own an ultra expensive cartridge, let’s say, over 7k, is that your main spinner? Do you do a factory retip at costs exceeding thousands? Do some of you who own high cost cartridges use them only for special occasions, similar to drinking Dom Perigon for some special event, and use a normal not so exotic cartridge for regular day to day use and perhaps non-audiophile records.
I am sure each of us have our own price threshold and thoughts of high end cartridges. I only said 7k, because that seems to me a fair price point to describe a very expensive cartridge.

My thoughts are that having a few normally priced cartridges around is a good thing, due to the wear and tear, and replacing or retippimg would also be less costly. I do lust after some high end cartridges and if I do obtain one, my philosophy would be as described above. Enjoy for special occasions, and use a less costly for normal day to day listens. Geez, it feels like we are trying to separate our car cruises from a sports car feel to a luxury limo ride feel, in some ways. 
What’s your opinion on expendability of cartridges?
audioquest4life
Dear @audioquest4life  : "   good returns on investment? "

The only return I looking for is that the cartridge honor MUSIC reproduction that can puts me nearer to the recording and that's all thaT MATTERS TO ME.

MUSIC is all about MUSIC, hardware is only a necessity for. Obviously your needs/priorities are way different from mines.

Regards and enjoy the MUSIC NOT DISTORTIONS,

R.
@audioquest4life  :Btw, for years this new Sumiko cartridge is voiced through SME V, so maybe can be a good option for you.

R.
I'd say get the best ( note: not highest price...) cart that 1) you can afford 2) works with your sonic priorities and 3) mates well with your tonearm. Play and enjoy!  Modern styli, played on decently clean records last quite a while...
Audioquestforlife you are certainly going to need that 80db with the Strat.
Not  so sure I am sold on the single pole idea. Anyway, I am more interested on what you think of the Soundsmith and how it compares to your Benz. Thanx:)