Ortofon MC A90 cartridge

..sounds like there is a lot of interest in the A90. I'm sure in a few months, other manufacturers will build cartridges using the A90 techniques. It drives one nuts trying to stay at the cutting edge....

I think trying to "stay at the cutting edge" is now, more than ever, unproductive. Change happens in this industry much faster than it used to, and the incremental changes are just that--incremental. The word "value" has to come into the decision-making process at some point, I think, and chasing the latest, most popular cartridge cannot be defined as a value.

For example, at RMAF last week, I, as many here on Audiogon did, got a chance to listen to the A90 in the same system and on the same turntable as the new Allnic Puritas cartridge (in Steve Dobbins' room). For me, I really preferred the Allnic, which was sort of surprising based on all the rave reviews of the A90. I have a feeling the new Allnic will be getting a lot of buzz over the next year as the A90 did last year. Such is condition we find ourselves in! What will 2011 bring in cartridges? Who knows, but I think just choosing one and having the discipline to tell yourself you bought it because you truly enjoyed it should be enough. Such discipline will save money and heartache, but it will be tough!

Kipdent,

That Dobbins room was one of my three favorite at RMAF. Steve was kind enough to play two of my LPs. I preferred the Allic Puritas on simple female vocals and the A90 on acoustic bass and piano. Others in the room agreed. I think the fact that the differences were easy to identify is a testament to the quality of the system and to his "The Beat" turntable. It was a wonderful sounding room.

I have had the opportunity to set up and hear the A90 a few times over the last few weeks. The sound is very good. What is a little nagging are reports that the QC is not quite what it should be and there are variations in samples. If anyone has taken a look at the stylus of the A90 it is not hard to see how setting the rake angle with any precision is next to impossible. All one can really do is level the body and play. This may be why the price is where it is. Even so, the A90 is a good performer and has a sound many will find satisfying. If I were looking for another cartridge the A90 would be on that list.

Kipdent why would it be so tough , if one enjoys a good cartridge in the system and you enjoy your music, thats what its all about , if people run after some reviewers and chase for what its best over and over than the journey can be painful and not enjoyable.
To me those differences are often exxagerated , on a certain level you are not talking not good or way better .
I think there is more to be won in speakerdesign actually.