Is There An "Absolute" Best Cartridge?

Downunder,

The moment of glory didn't last that long. It's yesterday news already.
I will happily take it off your hand.;)

Downunder: That's going to be a long list, throw my name in the hat, too.

Regarding the Acutex, two months ago I purchased an LPM 412STR for approx. $50, NOS and free shipping from Greece. The intended use was to test used vinyl and I anticipated the stylus would be demolished in short order. Within two hours of finishing preliminary setup it was apparent the Acutex was something special. Intrigued, I found another (on that auction site), a LPM 312E, $27 delivered. It's now upgraded with the modified Shibata M312STR-111 stylus. Currently I'm waiting for delivery of several NOS M315STR-111 stylii.

I did suggest to Raul that as he had the Acutex LPM 315STR in his possesion and as I found it's later incarnation and little brother the LPM 412STR very enjoyable, he might give his 315 another listen. Although I've had occasion to question Raul's statements (forgive me, Raul) it's been a matter of semantics, not his discernment relating to audio.

Power and presence are the hallmark of the Acutex. I'm listening further into the music than any other MM/MI/IM cartridge I've heard, including several "legendary" carts I own and am quite familiar with. Downunder, your Technics cartridge would be welcome to stay with the Grace F9E and F9L, AKG P8E and P8ES, Empire 1000ZE/X, Azden YP50VL and other well regarded (by some) Shure, Orto., Goldring, AT and others I've collected over the decades. None (IMHO) equal the Acutex.

I'm neither pushing or peddling. There is currently a window of opportunity to obtain a limited number of rare NOS 312, 315 and (perhaps) 320 stylii. The cartridge body LPM 3XXE-111 or LPM 3XXSTR-111 show up from time to time, stylii are interchangable but only within the series. With reluctance and reservation I suggest those who take advantage of this availability and have the persistence to locate these items should have no regrets they did so.

Usual disclaimers and please understand I've said more than needs to be said. This is Raul's thread and besides, Raul is much more knowlegable (and entertaining) in his response.

Gents

Bad luck boys, its just my Aussie dry humour.My Technics EPC-P100C MK4 ain't going anywhere, except to van Den Hull for a re-build one day.

I have had it on my P3 for a couple of months now - and it passes the long term satisfaction test easily, not just the short term WOW factor.
This is the only way to judge a cartridge, or any piece of equipment - not just a few hours or a day or so of joy.

It is the only MM cartridge I have heard that is truely world class. the others are just nice and a bit of fun to play with.

cheers

Yes, but they decided not to build it because no one could afford it.

Dowunder, I want it. Really. Your pal, Lew