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Decided to try a SPU cartridge

I’ve been fascinated that the SPU (Stereo Pick-Up) cartridges, which was invented over 60yrs ago in 1958, still has loyal fans today. The SPU is reported to have a big, bold, exuberant and musically exciting character.

While researching, the best SPU cartridge may be the Ortofon SPU Century. I found one new at a greatly discounted price so I took the plunge.

Normally, it’s best to demo before purchasing. But because I’m going for sonic variety rather than improvement, the SPU’s sonic description and market longevity is enough for me to feel confident it’ll be a good experience. Besides, trying to track down a SPU demo in this Covid environment may be a pain.

In addition, I’ll probably purchase a Ortofon SPU Classic GM E MkII to experience the “original” SPU sound. Other SPUs I may try are Ortofon’s SPU Meister Silver GM MkII, SPU Synergy GM, SPU Royal GM MkII, SPU Wood A.

Next I’ll have to get a SPU tonearm. The usual suspects are Thomas Schick, Groovemaster II, and Ikeda. I wonder what’s the best SPU tonearm?

I suspect that tonearm cables upgrades won’t yield enough sonic improvements for SPUs.

kennyc
kennyc OP
1,227 posts
 

Okay, I'm taking a step backwards - I realized that the 4point and the ViV won't work on a SPU "G" but may likely work on SPU "N".  So I'm back to getting another tonearm.  I'm heavily favoring the Groovemaster II which I know works well with SPUs.  Also, I'll eventually purchase a Bokrand modified Ortofon arm to compare arms and especially because I like the idea of matching brands to my SPU cart.

I'm sticking with SPU "G" size because I want to compare on the the best SPU (hopefully my Century) to the original SPU.  I'm guessing that a new Ortofon Classic G will fit the bill.  Not sure how SPU "N"  compares to SPU "G" sonically, no incentive to experiment. 

Got a message from WAM that they don't evaluate stylus on SPUs - in retrospect I feel dumb/embarrassed for asking.  Getting a stylus angle correct doesn't apply much to spherical/elliptical stylus profiles as for a other stylus profiles.  Sometimes you just got to laugh at yourself.

I did notice that used SPUs don't state their hours usage.  Maybe SPUs are considered disposable and/or stylus replacement is cheap/easy?

kennyc OP
1,227 posts
 

Because of this previous thread, I picked up a used Ortofon SPU Gold which likely needs retipping.  The fun continues...

https//:forum.audiogon.com/discussions/mc-cartridge-mini-shootout-spu-koetsu-fr-ikeda

 

 

boothroyd
365 posts
 

@kennyc 

. . . the ViV won't work on a SPU "G" but may likely work on SPU "N".

The ViV should work with either style. My plan is to try the “G” version SPU Classic GM E MKII, as soon as I hear from Louis, on a ViV.

alan60's avatar
alan60
165 posts
 

@kennyc 

The Viv Lab's definitely work with SPU G's, just remove the headshell and pop in the SPU, although I would argue the Royal N sound's better than it's G equivalent the Royal GM II, and it's cheaper as well.

kennyc OP
1,227 posts
 

@alan60 

Thanks for the tip regarding the smaller sized "N" SPUs. I'll keep that in mind - maybe later I'll further explore optimizing the SPU sound.  

I like variety.  I'm in my 60s.  Because I started late my high end audio,  I'm kind of condensing my high-end audio experience tempered by my wallet as my remaining years seem limited.   The SPUs is a side interest as my main system is neutral linear.  I'm also building a fleas watt system to explore tube magic aka harmonic distortion :) - I purchased a 300B amp already and need to budget for a flea watt speakers.  

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