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Question on Denon DL-103 retipping options and preferences

I have been looking at getting a Denon DL-103 retipped and I have narrowed it down to getting it done by Steve at VAS or by Andy at Needle Clinic. 

Both companies approach to the DL-103 is very different and I am curious if anyone has heard cartridges from each or what you think that may be better for amazing sounding rock.

Steve recommends a wood housing and then will do a Boron/MR retipping, where Andy will modify the plastic housing on the DL-103 to convert it's enclosed outer body to a half nude body, lightening it up which he says will make it track better.  His conversion will be a micro ridge nude stylus (sapphire/boron cantilever) 

So as stated very different approaches, same cost for the most part, I have ruled Soundsmith out just based on time, I know Andy turns around in a day, but have read a lot about both so I figured I would ask the question to see where people lean more often.  I do already have an ebony housing, just want to get a cartridge that punches way above its weight.

If there is something I should look at outside the DL-103 I would be open to hear about it.

Just for the record this cartridge will be going on a SOTA Sapphire VI with an Audiomods series 6 tonearm and I have a McIntosh MP100 going to a tube rolled Schiit Freya+ driving by two Odyssey Kismet monoblocks and Martin Logan speakers.  
128x128justinrphillips

Showing 2 responses by billwojo

billwojo
397 posts
 
I have more than a few of the DL-103 variants that I purchased with broken cantilevers. Average price is about $80 bucks so the real cost is in having one rebuilt to my specs. There is a DL-103, DL-103R, DL-103D all waiting for Steve at VAS Audio to do his magic when I have some free cash. First I need to wear out the 3 that I have, 2 rebuilt by Steve and one that's stock.
Chakster, I don't see the problem with taking a really good generator design and hot rodding it. The basic design of the cartridge is very good and it's just so musical, a trait that doesn't go away when rebuilt to a new level.
There is a reason that the Denon DL-103 and it's variants have a huge following and that it's been in continuous production since the 60's. People just love them.
BillWojo
billwojo
397 posts
 
@justinrphillips: I agree totally with what tkr says. Plus a LOT of folks like the Denon "house sound", it's why it's so popular.
I started with a Denon DL-103 because of all the great things that I read about it and to me it didn't disappoint. Several years later it still makes me smile and for the price of a new one I can get one of my broken ones rebuilt with a better stylus. I'm very happy at this price point. I'd be very upset if I messed up one of my carts, I'd probably throw my whole TT rig in the trash if I messed up a thousand dollar cart! I would be sick and disgusted with myself. I have no interest in playing in that field, good for the guys that can.

BillWojo

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