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Opinions sought: % contribution to sound by component — specifically cartridges

Hi, all!
I’m wondering if I can get some opinions on the contribution to sound of various components in an analog chain — assuming that all components are of a similar, highly-resolving/musical level; i.e., nothing out of balance.

Here is what is in my setup:

  • Cartridge
  • Tonearm
  • Turntable
  • Step-up transformer <> RIAA line stage [I’ll consider this one item — assuming appropriate gain for the output of one’s chosen cartridge]
  • Amplifier
  • Speakers

(Yes, I’ve left out interconnects, speaker cables, power cords, racks, room treatments, etc.)

The reason I ask is that I’ve built what I’ve felt is an exceptionally musical system over a 25+ year period that has withstood the test of time for me. The newest component is from ~2010. E.g., my amplifier is a Kondo-san-made / Audio Note Japan-branded Neiro Silver from the late 90s. I'm the original owner.

Some cartridges I’ve had in my setup include these LOMCs: XV-1s, Etna SL, Blue Magic Diamond. 

Due to some changes in life circumstances, my Etna SL is no longer singing as it once did, and I may not have the means to get a cartridge near this level. I’m trying to prepare myself for what I may be giving up, so I welcome comments on that as well.

Thanks for your thoughts!

ebalog
dwette
531 posts
 

Lyra also has an exchange policy. More costly than just a 3rd party retip, but it nets one a brand new, latest spec cartridge. I have two Lyra Atlas Lambda, and plan to use the Lyra exchange as long as I can. A 3rd party retip is a less costly option, but there’s no guarantee that brings back the lost magic, and can potentially make things worse.

ebalog OP
36 posts
 

@dwette  — Thank you for the responses!

I was just curious for peoples' opinions on the % of the cartridge's contribution to sound, knowing that it's just that: an opinion / generalization. I.e., if I have to drop down a few notches from what I've used the last 25+ years, will the rest of my system carry the load in such a way I barely notice... or will it be the opposite: the missing top-end cartridge will be something SORELY missed?

I have had a few cartridges retipped by Soundsmith. They do excellent work, but it does change the sound of a cartridge (at least for the ones I had/in my experience). That's not to say the sound was bad just... different.

I'm aware of the exchange program. Retail prices have gone up quite a bit; even the generous discount vs. new is a price I may not be able to afford at this moment in time. 

@audphile1 — Thanks for your response as well. 

Given the construction of a cartridge like the Etna SL, with the cantilever directly attached to the body, may mean a rebuild is not possible — or would substantially alter things if it were to be done.

They do offer a cleaning/evaluation/restoration service, so perhaps that will work out for me.

I'm just thinking about what I may be facing and possible alternatives.
 

audphile1's avatar
audphile1
7,832 posts
 

Understood. Well it’s a pretty high end cartridge. I’d get an opinion from the dealer if you have one you can trust or give Upscale Audio a call they might have som options. 

larsman's avatar
larsman
3,125 posts
 

For me, speakers, cartridge and line stage preamp make the most difference, followed closely by the phono preamp. 

ghdprentice's avatar
ghdprentice
9,403 posts
 

I have a very good analog leg (Linn LP12 almost Klimax/  Koetsu / Audio Research Phonostage). See my virtual system. The overall proportion is about 30% speakers, 15% amp, 15% preamp, 15% phonostage, 15% TT, and 10% vibration control / wires.  The TT / Cartridge / Arm about 1/3 each. 

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