VDH the FROG on VPI Scout Lyra Dorian


My turntable is sounding a bit odd at the moment s bit of a hissing sound. It is hard to describe. But I think maybe my Lyra Dorian is worn out. I will have the turntable plus cart checked out to see if cart has been worn out or if there is an other problem.

But like a "true" audiophile I was already browsing the net to see what is available. I did notice that Lyra Cartridges have become a lot more expensive. If I remember correctly the Derian used to be less then $1000, the Delos is $1600. That is a big step up.

But then I ran into the reason why I started this topic. Someone is offering a VDH the FROG. For a really nice price. But I am not sure if it will work good with a VPI Scout. The specs of the FROG says that the effective arm mass should be between 8 and 14 grams. I am not sure but isn't the VPI just a bit to low? I think I have a VPI headshell weight somewhere. But not sure if that is a good idea.
mordante
Given the well documented variability of QC regarding vdH products, I would avoid them.
YMMV
I have used some very pure alcohol too clean the needle. It gave some improvement but I am not sure yet. Most of the distortion is gone now. But as soon as there is some dust on the needle the distortion is back. In the past I never had this problem. Or at least not on this level.
VDH recommends a tonearm effective mass of 6 to 10g, for the
Frog. If your Scout has the JWM-9 arm; it's effective mass
is
8.6g. Should be an excellent setup.
(http://www.vandenhul.com/products/phono/the-frog-r-series)
Don't forget the trade in value. You can get a Dorian for $1300 with trade in at Needle Doctor, maybe less elsewhere. If you like the cart, maybe that's the way to go. Maybe not.
Dear Mordante: I don't see a real trouble on matching your tonearm with The Frog.

The Frog is a very good performer and IMHO always welcomed in any audio system because its quality performance level..

My take: go ahead with.

Regards and enjoy the music,
R.