Technics 1200 w/ AT440ML/OCC ... BENT!


Bah!  I bent the stylus after mishandling handing a record.  It survived for almost 8 years before my caveman mannerisms interfered.  The mourning / anger phase has passed, so on to replacement options.  I had a at120e stylus from an old table that I'm currently swapped in, so I can take time to research. 
stylus replacement only: 

VMN40ML - basically what I have now (ML) 

VMN50SH - Shiba version

As you probably already know, stylus replacement for my AT440 is about 70% of the way to a brand new cart.  So, wondering if I can do better (i.e. head and shoulders better)?  My top level is about $500 for a newer cart.  Maybe a bit more if it might be considered 'end game'.  As it is, i'm already in ~$250 for a new stylus so might as well research options.  

Here's my setup:
technics 1200 fully KAB upgraded

Parasound Hint6 (using phono pre)

Kef LS50

Mogami wire.  

 

128x128martinman

Thanks everyone.  Isn’t the VM750SH essentially (minimally different) when compared to the VMN50SH stylus on my 440?  No doubt it’s an up level, but I’m wondering if it’s worth it.  Not sure I want to spend the $$$ on something that will provide a small incremental gain.  Thoughts?

@martinman  A good friend worked for AT. I have 2 of these, 1 has never been mounted... maybe trade something?

Then you need to move up to the 760 or the AT33PTG/II or Nagaoka MP500.

Not sure I want to spend the $$$ on something that will provide a small incremental gain.

If your cartridge was 8 years old and still with its original stylus, then either you play LPs very infrequently or the stylus needed replacement anyway.  In the latter case, you just did yourself a favor by forcing the issue of replacing the stylus.  There are innumerable fine cartridges that can be bought for $500 and less.  Take your pick.