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Does a phono cartridge have a break-in period??

Do phono cartridges have a so called "break-in" period in which they begin to sound better?? I recently purchased an Audio Technica AT-120E moving magnet which for under $150 sounds good to very good. (I mentioned it in another thread)

Though,the mid-range sounds a bit recessed, and not as full as some more expensive MM's I have owned

My question is: do cartridges have a burn-in period after which the sounds is fuller or better?? If so, what exactly is breaking in?? stylus, cartridge coilings??
sunnyjim
mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
4,993 posts
 
I find, for most cartridges, 40-50 hours is about the average for break-in. Some less, some more.
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
IME they certainly do, more than any other component (along with speakers).

IMO and as noted by Swampwalker, this is largely due to changes in the suspension. The process is inevitable, because subjecting a new, never stressed elastomer to repeated flexion/compression cycles causes changes at the molecular level. A perfectly elastic suspension wouldn't change, but unfortunately a perfectly elastic material doesn't exist.

Dynamic cone speakers have a break-in period for exactly the same reason.

The length of break-in varies widely from one cartridge to another. I've had cartridges stabilize after just 10-20 hours while others have continued to exhibit wild swings through 100 hours and beyond.
sunnyjim OP
927 posts
 
Thanks to all who have responded so far. I appreciate the info and education.
zd542
5,339 posts
 
How do you like your new Ayre CD player? For the money, I don't think you could have done better.
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