Hi All,
Regarding the differences and similarities between the Glanz and Astatic range, I thought the following detail with the various patents that underpin these might prove enlightening:
"4072823 1978 Minamizono 'Mitachi Onkyo Seisakusho (brand name ""GLANZ"")' 'Pickup cartridge called as' 'Moving Flux'(see also 4011417). Unique construction having merit of MM/IM/MC. 'Also see Design patent D266504(1982) assigned to The Astatic Corporation (cartridge model MF200)'. Also '4123067 about unique stylus pivot suspension (embodied in model G-7 cartridge)'."
This might explain the preferences some have for the Astatic MF-200. However, it does suggest a uniqueness to the Glanz G-7 that might explain its distinct sound from the Astatic and Glanz cartridges that I have heard. It does suggest specific differences in and between both Glanz and Astatic cartridges.
The G7 continues to fascinate me but others (say the MFG-61o) might still supersede it in my ultimate estimations. Speaking of the latter, which was only recently brought to my attention by Vetterone, Grammophone April 1985, does note the new range of Glanz and the supremacy of the MFG-61o among that MFG range:
"In their 'moving flux'; range is the new MFG-310 (L4195) having a stylus lock fitment, glass-fibre body and line-contact diamond stylus. There is also a top model, the MFG-6Io (89) with a hollow boron cantilever, and a budget moving-magnet cartridge, the Glanz MG-70 at £1495."
Again, this seems to suggest the real variety of construction detail that affects Glanz. I hope Nandric decides to get hold of the 61o and lets us all know his perception of its strengths and weaknesses. I also continue to hope that more contributions and information are forthcoming.
As always...