Allaerts down-repair or ??

Did I read this correctly? The cartridge is just over a year old and now needs to be rebuilt, an operation that will take 1 to 2 years?

I have sent the cartridge to "The Soundsmith" to be evaluated.Upon determination of the problem,it will be forwarded to Allaerts for repair/re-build.Jan Allaerts has contacted me,after sending an e-mail.He stated that the cartridge was built in 2003 and that I should check the input of the phonostage for DC voltage.I understand the cartridge is now being built with a ruby cantilever,which I may have him add during its' repair.
Is it unusual for a cartridge built in 2003 to be sold as "new" by a dealer? As I understand it, these cartridges are in high demand and there is a wait for their delivery.
Thanks for all the help and comments.Best regards,Tom

Tom, did you understand why Jan asked you to "check the input of the phonostage for DC voltage"? You definitely should do that. If the SoundSmith reports that it has a fried coil, that's probably the reason. Jan's cartridges have EXTREMELY fine coil wires that are easily burned by improperly designed or operating phonostages.

Nsgarch,yes- I understand this about his cartridges.It had functioned properly for about 14 months w/o any problem.He also mentioned "static" charge,but I am checking out the phonostage.

I would email Jan directly. He's very nice to deal with. Things have been a bit difficult recently as he had a family bereavement, I believe. I had my MC1B rebuilt by him. It took 8 weeks and 800 euros.

Charlie