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  3. 178627-2529

Cartridges, Vinyl, Stylus, Turntable

Generally speaking, will a cheap, non-expensive cartridge (Sumiko Pearl, $120) damage an audiophile record? I’m concerned about wear and damage to a record. In this case, I’m not concerned about sound quality. 
I ask this question because I have a high end system with a very expensive cartridge. Lots of pristine, audiophile LPs. 
 I plan to set up a less expensive system in another room which will get lots more activity. I do not want to buy an expensive cart. 
 Would playing precious records using an inexpensive cartridge damage a record?

Assuming the stylus is in good condition. 

oregon
lewm
12,516 posts
 

First, all LPs are potential "audiophile" LPs, depending upon the quality of the pressing and the past history of the particular sample, but one wants to take care of any LP worth playing.  Second, no, of course an inexpensive cartridge will not harm an LP, provided the stylus is in new to at least "good" condition and the set-up parameters, particularly VTF, are within spec.

ghdprentice
6,415 posts
 

I do not think so. My experience has been that relatively inexpensive cartridges track at a different level in the groove. But, also, when I had two different turntables I would never use the inexpensive one.

noromance's avatar
noromance
9,475 posts
 

Does this mean THE JOINT is getting less use? I sense a mobility issue. Hope all is well.

oregon OP
809 posts
 

noromance,

 No. But shamefully, I have not updated my profile in years and The Joint is completely different. I will try to update soon.

 I am setting up a second system in the living room where everyone in the house can play some vinyl. The Joint is my primary dedicated listening room.

Hope all is well with you. Stay cool.

audioguy85's avatar
audioguy85
2,001 posts
 

That pearl cartridge is highly regarded as an audiophile budget cartridge....same for the venerable AT95e, which was even less expensive....another that comes to mind, the ortofon OM10...

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