Chazz, what Tpsonic is referring to is "matching" your cartridge's characteristics to the phono. Your ears, the cartridge manufacturer, and users (A'goners) can point you in the right direction -- no worry.
As to the RIAA curve, yes, some pre-50's LPs do may have a slightly different compression --- but it will be difficult to have many different phonos!!! IMO, stick with the standard RIAA, one that allows you to adjust for a number of cartridges (including ceramic, if you use 78's).
Another point with 78's is the playing speed /hence pitch: some LPs are not cut to exactly 78rpm, and a speed control on the TT could be useful to compensate. A friend has one record that sounds correct @81 rpm!
As to the RIAA curve, yes, some pre-50's LPs do may have a slightly different compression --- but it will be difficult to have many different phonos!!! IMO, stick with the standard RIAA, one that allows you to adjust for a number of cartridges (including ceramic, if you use 78's).
Another point with 78's is the playing speed /hence pitch: some LPs are not cut to exactly 78rpm, and a speed control on the TT could be useful to compensate. A friend has one record that sounds correct @81 rpm!