Lyra Etna SL vs. Transfiguration Proteus + Koetsu Urushi

@attymmbb. 'I'am just doing the math'' (01-11-18). I think

simple algebra will do. However there are  'unclear variables''.

What does ''refurbishing'' or '' rebuild'' mean?

While the stylus ''state'' causes the most wary the stylus exchange

is the least problematic ''rebuild kind'' among the possible kinds.

I.e. cantilever or suspension (ex)change are more problematic

according to J. Carr. In the sense of preserving the original

sound that is. The usual ''retip'' consist in gluing the cantilever/

stylus combo in he so called ''joint pipe''. Boron+ whatever exotic

stylus cost about 500 euro. Stylus only in the original cantilever

cost about 180 GBP by Expert stylus (UK). ''Refurbishing'' or

''rebuild'' by the manufacturer cost about 3/4 of the retail price.

But one need to remember the ''distribution of income'' among

the ''social classes''. The importer get about 30%, the seller get

also 30% so , according to simple algebra, the producer get also

about 30%. My Koetsu Rosewood Signature was refurbished

by Koetsu for 2200 euro. Those who recommend ''refurbishing''

by the manufacturer have no idea what they are talking about.

Assuming boron cantilever + Shibata or micro ridge one can

assume that retippers as well the cart producers get those from

the same supplier. So the chance to get the same boron cantilever

is pretty probable while the choice of the retipper become very

important. Depending from his experience and skills the result

will be as such. BTW ''refurbishing'' by the manufacturer means

an new generator. Those are produced as separat parts and

installed in different bodies . Koetsu's  Urushi's are the best

illustration. Because the manufacturer don't produce their own

cantilevers and styli they don't do retips. Besides they would

need to hire an specialist for this kind of job while producing

and selling  carts is not a ''big business''.

tzh21y,

The Air Tight Supreme is faster, more transparent, higher resolution of detail, still equally fleshed out and musical. The Opus 1 takes it up even a few more notches.  I still have a new LPS for back up.  

I had and really liked my Koetsu RSP, until I brought in both the Benz Gullwing and LPS. I preferred both of the Benz cartridges at a lower cost over the Koetsu.

Between the two Benz's they were in my system for over 5 years total.  IMO to get a cartridge with a similar but better , not just different sound, It's going to cost $$$.   It's hard not to compare the LPS to costly cartridges if your wanting to improve on what it does.

I had and really liked my Koetsu RSP, until I brought in both the Benz Gullwing and LPS. I preferred both of the Benz cartridges at a lower cost over the Koetsu.

Sorry to go OT, but Tom I'd like to hear how the Gullwing and LP-S were similar / different / how you felt about each.

My other cartridge, the MSL Ultra Eminent Bc is at Soundsmith as I accidentally bent the canitilever and the Transfiguration Proteus I recently purchased is back at the dealer's pending replacement due to a factory defect.   In the meantime, I have a Koetsu Blue Lace and MSL Signature Gold on home demo.