DJ vs. Audiophiles

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!!! :)

Thanks guys for the comments. I am trying to get back into vinyl and dusted off my old technics TT. It's current installed w/ an Audio Technica 8080 MC, but I think the cartridge is on it's last leg. Eventually, I want to upgrade my TT. But for now, I don't want to spend too much money and I am thinking about getting a reasonably price MC to play with. I don't plan on scratching or "abusing" the cartridge. My grand dad left my his record collection, about 200+, most of which are old. Hence, I was wondering if using a DJ cartridge is a good idea. Most, if not all, of the records I have are not for rave/techno/bassy/ dancing type so I don't know if I am better off using a cartridge designed, or normally used, for jazz/classical/classic rock types of music.

Thanks again for the inputs.

If you have a Technics S-shaped arm w/ removable headshell, the modded Stanton Groovemaster II will give you *serious* audiophile perfomance. Extremely decent...