DJ vs. Audiophiles

DJ cartridges are made to take abuse. Audiophile cartridges are not. As far as the sound goes, that would be up to individual taste. I'll stick with audiophile cartridges, because I rarely engage in manually "scratching" my records back and forth!

Adding to Twl's post, DJ carts more often have spherical styili, which ist nicht so gut for the boom-boom, shaka-shaka we philes so deserve.

A DJ cartridge has a shorter cantilever, technically speaking. This makes it stronger, allowing 'back cueing' and 'scratching'. Also, they are designed to track at heavier weights and give out a rather high output voltage.

I wouldn't call their features desiged for "abuse", though. Just different playing scenarios (dance/broadcasting).

A DJ cartridge is usually very well made. I am currently using a modded Stanton Groovemaster II (the stylus/cantilever assembly has beeen replaced for a Stereohedron line contact). This creature has high output, great bass, incredibly coherent midrange and musicality. A great performer, all in all. I've had no need to switch back to my Ortofon X5 MC...

Tom, you need to get out of your doomsday hideout and dance!!! :)