Is this a bargain?

Apparently it's been sold, but I've heard the AT-ART1000 and it's in an entirely different tier of performance compared to their AT33PTG/II or their other carts in that range. The ART1000 uses a unique magnetic system with the moving coils positioned more directly above the stylus tip rather than at the back end of the cantilever, giving it a more direct drive system and much better dynamics.

@bill_k Very correct. It is also a very delicate setup that will not survive any misstep. My tendency would be to avoid it. 

Interesting... I have a buddy who has had one in daily use for a couple of years without any issues at all. Of course he's careful with it but does nothing out of the ordinary. Its performance is really quite stunning.

The ART1000 with its coils mounted above the stylus tip is what JVC did with the MC-1 mc cartridge back in 1980. Nothing new here!

How can one dream of the AT33 competing with the AT1000 without having auditioned both? AT make several LOMCs that lie on their product spectrum between the AT33 and the AT1000 in both cost and performance. Of course one is free to prefer the AT33, but with open eyes is best. And I’m sure the AT33 is excellent in its own rite.