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In the Forum: Analog Playback
In the Thread: The mono cartridges paradox.
Post Subject: Level of Expectations/DemandsPosted by Paul S on: 11/29/2010
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Interesting observation/question. I think some "manufacturers" at least pay attention to this idea, offering dedicated mono "versions" of their "better" cartridges. But as far as the old "classic" mono cartridges go, I think it is a fine line between what they can do in terms of their absolute limits versus what they do not do, in terms of screwing up. I do believe there is plenty of Music to be gotten from older recordings. At the same time, I wonder if it is realistic to expect the same sort of sound from them that we get from more modern stereo playback. I have said many times, and it remains true: Given sonic parity apart from mono versus stereo, I'll take stereo every time. In cases where I have early "original" mono LPs and also stereo dubs from them, it depends on the quality of the transfer. In some cases, the stereo trumps the original "immediacy" despite "lesser" sound quality.
As for stereo needles doing a better job than the specialized mono needles, I would say it is case-by-case, just as I find it case-by-case whether a "mono" LP will sound "better" played in electronic "mono" or "stereo" playback. Generally, I wind up going with the choice that offers the best ambience; but not always. Sometimes "immediacy" wins out. For 78 lacquers, is there really a choice?
Best regards,
Paul SRerurn to Romy the Cat's Site