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  3. 161423-107

Cartridge reliability

Not having purchased a cartridge in at least 15 years, and probably more, I’m curious what has been your recent experience with cartridge reliability. Any cartridge failures? Significant channel imbalance? Loss of a channel? Suspension collapse? Etc. My focus is on moving coil cartridges.

I’m trying to get an idea of which manufacturers are tops in terms of reliability/QC and which have a thing or two to yet learn. I’m asking as my cartridge, though still sounding quite nice, surely can’t last forever. 
For instance, I’ve read about some albeit quite rare problems with Lyra, but I can’t recall ever hearing about any Dynavector issues. I have heard of some issues with Goldring 

your own user experience is appreciated!

thanks! 
128x128zavato
tablejockey
3,906 posts
 
Based on your post, you're overthinking it. 

All brands have a bad experience or two from users. Most brands will have some degree of warranty to cover unexpected failure.
pbnaudio's avatar
pbnaudio
1,613 posts
 
Whats your Budget like and what are you going to mount the cartridge on ?

Have had many Lyra Cartridges they are excellent, Clear Audio, Excellent too. Dynavector superb as well.  Look into ZYX too they sound fantastic.  There literally are so many great MC cartridges available today.

Good Listening 

Peter
zavato's avatar
zavato OP
1,403 posts
 
@tablejockey 

when it’s time, I simply want to avoid those brands that seem more trouble-prone

Also- I am aware that Mr. Carr is here from time to time and that Lyra has a sterling after sales reputation 
zavato's avatar
zavato OP
1,403 posts
 
@pbnaudio 

hi Peter- on a Linn Ekos 2 arm. 
Ideally, I would not spend over $2,000

thanks 
tablejockey
3,906 posts
 
Outside of a particular arm compatibility- the Audio Technica ART9 has a following here. 
https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/pani-new-art-9-up-and-running?highlight=art%2B9
There may some Linn owners commenting. I haven't seen any ART9 complaint/reliability threads. I've used one, tried a more expensive cart and came back to another ART9.

Have you looked at the Soundsmith lineup? MIMC is very popular.
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