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Ortofon SPU's outdated design?

Hi folks, I wonder if the Ortofon SPU's are in fact living fossils: they weight 30+ grams each! 40 years ago maybe it was a necessity but today? Average cartridge mass is nowadays between 8-12 grams. Headshell mass is usually between 9-12 grams. I know there are still fans of this carts but they are far from being "universally applicable", in fact tonearm/cartridge matching is more difficult than with the Denon 103. I wonder if the SPU's sound totally different if Ortofon would reduce their mass to 20+ grams (including integrated headshell).

Chris
dazzdax
dazzdax OP
599 posts
 
Prcinka, that is exactly what I mean: why does it have to be so exotic? Can't we go "normal"? Do we care so much for "tradition"? Is it (again) driven by emotion and the urge to go back to those good old times?
Marty, the SPU with the Fidelity Research FR-66S (which I also own = the very exotic combination Prcinka mentioned) sounds quite neutral, a bit soft in the treble. It is not the most dynamic or agile sounding cart. I think I can get the same type of sound with a Rega RB 900 + Grado cart.

Chris
Post removed 
plinko
256 posts
 
Chris, what Grado cart? There are quite a few options in the Grado line at varying price points. Do you think the SPU is no better than a Denon 103/R?
dazzdax OP
599 posts
 
Plinko, I'm thinking of the Grado Reference Sonata ($650). I haven't heard the Denon 103/R but some say that in the right arm (like the SME 3012R) it sounds very SPU-like.

Chris
prcinka
366 posts
 
....do not say this on any Japanese forums, please!Leave this just for us!
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