Upgrading cartridge used or new?

I've purchased many cartridges over the years, some new, some used. I've never had a bad experience when buying new. I have had good and bad experiences when buying used. Buying used is always a gamble, but even more so with cartridges than typical gear. It's a risk, whether it is worth it or not, only you can answer. Are you feeling lucky??? ;)

I had one that I bought new that wore out in about 5 years. It happened so gradually that I didn't really notice it until I changed to another less expensive model cartridge in the same line. Then I tried to re-mount the old cartridge again and it just didn't sound good at all. I don't have a microscope, so I can't say if it was the stylus of the suspension that was the problem, it just sounded lifeless and sluggish compared to the new one.

I also remember buying a used cartridge that I thought just didn't sound good to me, so I turned around and re-sold it, like I do with other gear that I don't care for the sound of. The person I sold it to told me that it was shot, that he could see under a microscope how worn the stylus was.

01-14-13: Manitunc
By the way, most of my purchases are also 20 to 30 year old LOMC.

Do you have them re-built when you buy them Manitunc? I would think that most cartridges suspension would be shot after 20 or 30 years, even if the needle itself is in good condition.

Mountainsong, just like every other question in this hobby, or even in life, you will never get a clear cut consensus answer. Too many varied experiences. It's a gamble, like with most things in life, the question is, is it worth the risk to you? Others can say whether or not the risk is worthwhile to them, but only you can determine if the risk is worthwhile to you.

Buying used is a higher risk, higher reward alternative to buying new. As with any investment, some will love the high risk, high reward option, while others will not. It all comes down to one question: Do you feel lucky? Well do ya punk?

LOL! Sorry for channeling my inner Clint Eastwood.

Hey, buying is a risk. I just bought some used speaker cables that arrived DOA. I've also had new gear have problems too, though usually there is a warranty with new. That's life in the big city.