2. analog
  3. 1138762532

NOS Ortofon VMS 30 MkII

I just bought a NOS/NIB Ortofon VMS 30 MkII (haven't received it yet). I'm wondering how these old Ortofon moving iron designs hold up against age (it's 20 years old!). I've read both positive and negative comments about NOS cartridges. It seems that some brands hold up better than others. Has anybody had NOS experiences with this model (or others from the VMS line)? Are the potential problems limited to the stylus part or is it likely that the rest of the cartridge will be affected too?
krenzler
stefanl
296 posts
 
I have an old VMS 20 Mk11 Ortofon that so far has not shown any problems.I believe the problem of deterioration from age is more acute with moving coil cartridges than with this moving magnet/iron type.I would not worry about it actually and Ortofon still have a replacement stylus available for this model,even though it is the same now for the VMS 20 and 30 models.
ballywho
134 posts
 
I can say that the one I own, and am selling on this site, works perfectly...

I used it with a Sonus (think Mayware) Formula IV unipivot arm, where I think it's probably most at home (it's one that you often hear is best for such arms), although it worked just as good on my father's RB300.
krenzler OP
13 posts
 
Well I live in Denmark...:-)

I plan to use mine in my Thorens TD150MkII/SME 3009S2improved setup.
vinylrowe
31 posts
 
I use my NOS VMS 20 MK 2 on my Grace 707 which is a low mass tonearm, The 20 seems to be fairly high compliance so it really takes well to this tonearm. The cantilever has a fair bit of movement (as is typical for this cartridge) so it tracks very well. At first I thought the suspension was bagged but after 6 months it has not changed or collapsed. I track at 1.5 and the sound is pure VMS ---that is to say great PRAT (timing) great soundstage and a touch of warmth. You will really enjoy the 30. Good luck !
krenzler OP
13 posts
 
I can't wait to hear it now! (should arrive any day now). I bought an original D 30 Mk II stylus just to be on the safe side. Hmm, it seems that turntablebasics doesn't sell re-grip outside the US for some reason (hopefully I won't be needing it). Thanks for the feedback.
More to discover