I’ve now got the Karousel bearing and it’s settling in. John at Audio T reckons cart is close to end of life and recommends replacement soon.
It’s about 4 years old and has done pretty well.
We discussed my system and his views on NC. Very interesting. He reckons the 350s aren’t as good as the 500DR and really rates the 300DR and 500 non DR very highly.
He reckons my next move is new cart and to probably stick with the same unless I add the Graham Slee Elevator and then go Low Output MC or use the K boards on the 52. If I go low output he suggested Krystal with my tonearm.
Very nice Dan. Gradual upgrades to the deck is a good way to go if you want to upgrade that is. I was hasty doing mine in 2004/2005 but must say that pre keel/radikal etc, the deck with lingo2/linto/ekos2/Akiva was a real belter when properly set up. I think I got one of the last ekos2 before the ekos se came out. I will certainly do some upgrades to the LP12 in the coming years.
You should also think of a record cleaning machine which will prolong stylus life
And I am not ready to get a Radikal 1 yet I hasten to add. Only reason why I did Karousel is massive discount and sale of 82. Got alot of outgoings with remortgage on flat I own and new lease and setting up a new will and LPA.
I agree that at this stage just go with the same cartridge
As you say no hurry at all on all of this.
Then Radikal 1.
With the Akito yes a cartridge around the price range as the Krystal is about right, no more.
I tried the Krystal on my ARO before going Kandid, I found it a bit “edgy” for my tastes , and a little unrefined . Try the DV XX2 mk 2 as alternative maybe.
Can all become a huge money pitt but it’s great as every upgrade one can hear the benefit
If you can stretch to it a used Radikal 1 is better than Lingo 4. Although a Lingo 4 is better than previous entrants and comes closer to the Radikal 1.
It’s whether you can get one in Germany.
Here, they sell for £1700 to £2000 for Radikal 1 Akurate finish.