I suggest that 50 hours is about right for most modern cartridges. Sorry but that's the way it goes. Also VTA comments are right on.
I suggest this, make certain that the cartrige is parallel in ALL axis to the vinyl surface. I.e. asmiath (I know it's not spelled right. That is head shell adjustment so the cartrige i parallel, you can rotate it a bit. Use a mirror to assure alignment, then for VTA start with the arm tube parallel to the record. I suggest that you try moving down just a hair and listen. If thats not it go a little the other way. It will lock in the soundstage when it's right. Also listen for surface noise. Back end of the cartridge down will lessen surface noise and make for a slightly darker duller sound when you've gone too far. On the other end when it's too high it will sound shrill and surface noise will be very evident. Assuming your records are in good shape. A bad record is a bad record.
If you don't have VTA adjustment, then shim the base of the arm. Get a shim pack. It's a pain but worth it.
jeff
I suggest this, make certain that the cartrige is parallel in ALL axis to the vinyl surface. I.e. asmiath (I know it's not spelled right. That is head shell adjustment so the cartrige i parallel, you can rotate it a bit. Use a mirror to assure alignment, then for VTA start with the arm tube parallel to the record. I suggest that you try moving down just a hair and listen. If thats not it go a little the other way. It will lock in the soundstage when it's right. Also listen for surface noise. Back end of the cartridge down will lessen surface noise and make for a slightly darker duller sound when you've gone too far. On the other end when it's too high it will sound shrill and surface noise will be very evident. Assuming your records are in good shape. A bad record is a bad record.
If you don't have VTA adjustment, then shim the base of the arm. Get a shim pack. It's a pain but worth it.
jeff