My Miyajima BE Mono should be arriving this week and I look forward to hearing what all the fuss is about. I'll be using mine on a Schick 12" arm.
Lula, I think I can answer your question. Some mono cartridges (such as the Miyajimas) are "true mono" designs that do not have vertical compliance. This type of cartridge will damage a stereo record. Some other mono cartridges DO have vertical compliance and those should be able to play a stereo record without damaging it. From what I have read, Grado monos are in the second group but there are probably others as well.
Lula, I think I can answer your question. Some mono cartridges (such as the Miyajimas) are "true mono" designs that do not have vertical compliance. This type of cartridge will damage a stereo record. Some other mono cartridges DO have vertical compliance and those should be able to play a stereo record without damaging it. From what I have read, Grado monos are in the second group but there are probably others as well.