Observations - Trying to audition a Hana cartridge before buying

@cleeds yes. I never said you cab return a mangled cartridge to TMR for a full refund. The return policy is absolutely reasonable

 

• If a newly purchased cartridge is functional but not satisfactory (within 60 days) please contact [email protected] with the serial number of the cartridge and the original order number to request return authorization. Upon receipt the cartridge will be evaluated in-house to determine its condition and sellability. If the cartridge is considered to be resellable, the customer may receive a full or partial refund (or exchange value).

that’s common sense. 
Upscsle Audio return policy on cartridges is no return - final sale. 
Music Direct cartridge return policy is identical to TMR

New cartridge that customer does not like (within 60 return period)

If a newly purchased cartridge is functional but not satisfactory please contact Music Direct Customer Service with the serial number of the cartridge and the original order number to request return authorization. Upon receipt the cartridge will be evaluated in-house to determine its condition and salability.

once again…common sense. 

OP setup tools and experience and test lp and often eyesight matter MUCH more than arguments about cantilever material or stylus shapes…. As in racing there is a great deal of satisfaction in passing what should be a faster car/driver due to poor setup… often middling setup

also… there are some really tasty Japanese carts with exotic  aluminum cantilever… 

@dcaudio 

Its very important to know what turntable you have and the tonearm you're going to use your new cartridge with. Without these important criteria there's no way to know if the Hana is going to be a good choice.

I had the same issue trying to audition any DS Audio cartridge in Australia.  Most dealers can order one, but having one in stock?  Let alone for a demonstration.

I wrote to the distributor seeking their advice on who in Sydney or Canberra might have stock.

They replied with an offer to purchase from them, with at least a six week wait for delivery.

It was worth the wait, but a bit of an expensive gamble 

@dcaudio 

I found your turntable criteria on another post you made today. Funny you guys can’t consolidate your inquiries into a single post but have to spread them all over the place in addition to not filling out your profile.

Anyway, it appears whatever flavor of the day tonearm you have on an Oracle Delphi will accommodate any cartridge weight you want to put on it, but I believe it’s compliance will be critical.