LONDON Decca, Tzar DST and similar cartridges


I have always been curious about these phono cartridges and the Stereophile review of the Tzar DST has heightened my interest. When I read about the peculiarities of these cartridges, I am put off from trying them. Can anyone offer persuasive reasons to try them and also provide real practical advice on how to make them work reliably?  Tonearm suggestions? Phono preamp suggestions? Damping recommendations? How badly do they grind out record grooves?  Any other words of advice? Thanks. 
128x128kmccarty

Showing 2 responses by cousinbillyl

Just installed the Tzar DST. Everything I've read regarding midrange and treble is true. There is a rightness to the sound that no other cartridge I've owned can touch. Piano is to die for. Complex and loud jazz pieces are easily reproduced. Female voice is clearer than anything I've ever heard. There is no going back.

The first tonearm I used was the Kuzma 4Point. It has an effective mass of 13g. According to Frank Schroeder, this is too low. I will agree. There was a slight lack of base energy.

The second arm I used was the Schroeder BA (Broadcast Arm). This arm is specifically built for the DST. It's effective mass is 25g. Wow!, there's the base. If you're thinking of this cartridge, the arm is almost mandatory. If you already own a high mass arm, try to get this cartridge into your system.

One caveat, the base is clear and tight. It's like going from a ported speaker to a sealed version. The drums whack you in the chest, and then they stop, no overhang. I like it.
Hey bdp24. I have a very understanding wife. Maybe one day I'll tell her what I got?????

Being an old guy, with kids all gone and doing well, I can occasionally treat myself. I hope my beat up old pickup lasts a few more years. I'd hate to explain why I can't get another?.

And now a very important edit: with a slight VTA adjustment, and now 10 hours of playing time, both the bass, and the base, are amazing. Please disregard any reservations about the lower registers. My first impressions where premature.