the shibata shape of stylus is NOT necessary for SQ. it would be for CD4 but few people have the demodulator needed for CD4. having a 881s and a nos stylus, i am set here and i WILL say this. the 881s is a special cartridge and when the opportunity to obtain the nos stylus occurred, i jumped at the opportunity.

the LPGear or the SAS would be a fine choice with the nod for the SAS if you can get one.