Mono cartridge value

[Bill K Davis]

I have a lot of mono albums,and wonder if it is worth it to get a mono cartridge.What are the advantages? I have heard that scratches are less of a problem and fidelity may be better. Is that all? I have a Dual 1229 with a mono /stereo headshell and can sum the connections to get mono sound,already. I currently have an AT95e stereo cartridge.Would I be better off just upgrading my stereo cartridge? Also, has anyone heard the Jeff Beck ,Truth lp from Sundazed, in mono?

[02audionoob]

I use a 1.0 mil stereo stylus on my mono records, with the mono switch on. This has been much better than an elliptical stylus for me. I've tried a wide range...1.0 mil, 0.7 mil, elliptical, fine line, Shibata, etc.

Take a look at the explanation at the KAB Audio website. They actually recommend what you're doing...using a stereo stylus and combining the channels...but the larger stylus is quieter in this situation. I've settled on the Ortofon Pro S stylus and it's what I'm happy with.

[Bill K Davis]

Thanks for your expertise. Some of you audioreview people are like going to the mountaintop.:cornut:

[02audionoob]

I'd be very interested to hear the results of whatever you go with. I'm developing a bit of an unused stylus collection, but at least these things have been fairly cheap. The Pro S stylus was only $20. Best of luck with it.

[Bill K Davis]

I'll have to get the adaptor and cartridge,for about $45,with 2 styli, with February's money.I'll report back.

[Bill K Davis]

I'm ready to spend,but have noticed this cartridge's tracking force is 3-5 g. as opposed to the normal 1.5 g.. Won't this wear out records much faster, or will the larger tip make up for it?

[02audionoob]

I really don't see 3 grams as a problem, if the stylus isn't worn. 1.5 grams isn't necessarily normal. This mono cartridge goes as high as 4.0 grams...

http://www.needledoctor.com/Denon-DL-102-High-Output-Moving-Coil-Mono-Cartridge?sc=2&category=369

Being played with a good stylus is what records are made to do. I've never worn out a record, as far as I know.

[Bill K Davis]

Musicians Friend has a $59 free shipping plus 10% off most expensive item. I'm going for the cartridge($41.99) and some cheap mic. stands.

[02audionoob]

Hmm...I might need to look into that, too. I need a 1/2-inch version. My current Pro S is on a P-mount.