2. analog
  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
noromance's avatar
noromance
9,825 posts
 

@oregon Good to hear. Looking forward to an update. Pay no attention to the second system naysayers. 😉 Records are to be enjoyed!

big_greg
6,646 posts
 

Why on God's green earth would you need a turntable in a secondary system?

I have a secondary system that I have been using to play grade all my records and get them entered into the Discogs database.

It's no slouch.  The analog chain consists of Simaudio 600i, Harbeth P3ESR, Power Sound Audio S1500 subwoofer, Manley Chinook phono stage, JVC QL-Y66F table with an inexpensive Denon DL-301 MK2 cartridge.  

Why limit yourself to one system?

To the OP, as long as the cartridge is made well and set up properly you shouldn't damage your records.  

dogberry
672 posts
 

And here I am with two turntables in my primary system, both the same, and just so I can have two different cartridges on the go!

juanmanuelfangioii
958 posts
 

Gosh I have 2 turntables in my reference system and 1 in my secondary.

Thinking of getting one for the the system in the pool house. Not as nice as it sounds it is really just a shed, pool house sounds cooler. 

oregon OP
822 posts
 

Dudes, Dudettes ( not Dudiens, I had a girlfriend who actually researched the subject),

 I tried to make it clear and simple- would a cheap cartridge that is properly set up and stylus is in good condition, damage a record?

 But, then the "why on earthers" and the "of coursers" chime in with extracurricular views (which is OK and sort of cute. It's all done in good faith and I love ya'll).

To answer the question about "why on earth"? It's no bg deal. Lots of crazy people on earth have two of everything- 2 cars, 2 opinions, 2 arms, 2 speakers... Ain't no big thang. 

 Yes, I do have digital sources, actually, 2 of them!

But, when my wife say's she'd like to hear such and such an LP, I jump. So, I'll set up my Lenco in the living room which is her favorite because I rebuilt it and it's purrddee. And of course, that's my opening for getting ANOTHER turntable and speakers and...

 Anyway, thanks guys and gals for reconfirming to me that I was correct in my thinking (I'd love to have 2 brains because I doubt the one I have is working properly), the cart won't damage my favorite Lawrence Welk collection as long as it's a cartridge in good standing.

 Thank you. Thank you. And thank you.

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