I have four cartridges in current use -- ADC, Grace, Pickering, Ortofon -- that
are at least 30 years old and sound great. Suspension deterioration is
overexaggerated as a issue, IMHO. In a couple cases where there seemed to be
a problem (including one of the four mentioned), I was able to bring them back
to life by applying a tiny amount of Rubber ReGrip to the suspension with a
toothpick. I'm sure that some carts do expire from old age, but I wouldn't
hesitate to buy an elderly one and I sure wouldn't keep them pickled in some
kind of chemical bath. I do live in a moderate climate, so that may be a factor
to consider.
are at least 30 years old and sound great. Suspension deterioration is
overexaggerated as a issue, IMHO. In a couple cases where there seemed to be
a problem (including one of the four mentioned), I was able to bring them back
to life by applying a tiny amount of Rubber ReGrip to the suspension with a
toothpick. I'm sure that some carts do expire from old age, but I wouldn't
hesitate to buy an elderly one and I sure wouldn't keep them pickled in some
kind of chemical bath. I do live in a moderate climate, so that may be a factor
to consider.