Benz Slr Gullwing vs Lp s

The first S class Benz cartridges were using Geiger stylus. Benz later changed over to the micro-ridge. I believe all new S class cartridges come with a micro-ridge stylus.

Nandric, If what you say is true, Fremer reviewed the post micro-ridge version of the S class Benz. Based on your chart, you have the post micro-ridge version as well.

One of the things I tell anyone purchasing the new s class Benz cartridges is to tell the dealer to make sure you are getting the new micro-ridge version of the cartridge. It traces better and sounds better overall IMO. I do not think that Luckaschek would not have switched over if it sounded worse - especially on a flagship series of cartridges. My experience says it sounds better and is more truthful to the source as well.

Any Benz owner of an s class cartridge will know what they have by checking the frequency response sheet provided with the cartridge. If the letter written in the left hand side say "MR", you have the micro-ridge. If it says "FG" or "FG2" you have the Geiger stylus.

I'm pretty sure all new s class Benz carts now have micro-ridge stylus. The last LP S I purchased was in May of 2011 and at that time was told they all have the micro-ridge stylus now.

Dre

Dre_j, I checked the data included by my Ruby 3s. The technical paper (aka 'specification' Ruby3) mentioned by stylus: nude line -contact diamond,mirror polished ,tip radius :5x120um. But on my, what you call 'frequency response sheet', the abbreviation 'FG-S' is writen by the stylus (kind).
I assume that the 'technical paper' is the old one (Ruby 3
without sufix S). I also assume that 'FG-S' means Geiger II
because this stylus is already in production for some time. Designed by Geiger and Van den Hul if I am well informed. By the mentioned Dutch retip service the prices are: rebuld Shibata 179 Euro, nude contact line 195 Euro and Geiger diamnod 265 Euro. The micro-ridge stylus is not offered so I have no idea about the price difference with the Geiger.

Regards,

Hmmm, I may need to try the Benz Slr Gullwing. Seems like a great value compared to the LP S...and many other more expensive carts for that matter. As an A90 owner, I would think this cart would be a good fit for me in the speed, dynamics and neutrality dept.

You can tell if you have the Micro Ridge stylus by looking at the enclosed frequency response chart. I think all Benz cartridges have the MR stylus now. I had the LP and now have the LP-S. Although they are similar, the LP-S extracts things from the record, I never heard were there before. Tacking is phenomenally better. When you cue the tonearm onto the leading groove, it just falls into place...no sliding around before it finds itself. The cartridge sounds faster than the LP (which was no slouch) Many pros find this cartridge the cartridge of choice (Harry of VPI, etc) for their own personal pleasure.

I agree with Stringreen 100% regarding the LPS. I also went from the LP to the LPS and have been in musical bliss ever since. The bass on the LPS is very dynamic. The Micro Ridge stylus change alone may be one of the main factors adding to the improvement to the entire S line.

Ciao,
Audioquest4life