Do you buy used carts/needles? Is it risky?

cartridge stereo, sorted by time left

https://auc.aleado.com/yahoo/search

their buyout (only some), you can sort by them, is like 'buy it now' on ebay, click, you got it for that price, so I sometimes sort by time, then scroll down to see the ones with a buyout price.

AT150E, buyout $51. (no headshell)

I personally would not plan on the stylus being good. I would plan on putting a currently available new VMNx Stylus (3 choices, all boron) on this body.

I have a 150e body with a vintage 160ml beryllium/microline stylus, sounds as good to me and my friends as my 160ml body with the same AT160ML stylus

https://auc.aleado.com/yahoo/lot?auctionID=w1227001666

New Phasemation PP-200, buyout $690 (+ fees and shipping)

https://auc.aleado.com/yahoo/lot?auctionID=x1227356270

New at Elusive Disc, $1,795

https://elusivedisc.com/phasemation-pp-200-mc-phono-pickup-cartridge-0-3mv/

AI quickie about boron:

"In real-world listening, the Phasemation PP-200's boron cantilever translates its physical advantages into distinct sonic characteristics:

• Cleaner, Faster, and More Open Sound: Reviewers consistently note a clean, open, and airy top end without edginess. The high stiffness and low mass result in faster transient response, making the sound more immediate and dynamic.

• Enhanced Detail and Clarity: The efficient transfer of vibrations allows for greater detail retrieval and improved clarity, particularly in complex passages.  This is evident in the precise rendering of percussion, cymbals, and subtle studio ambience.

• Superior Soundstaging: The rigidity contributes to a wider, more three-dimensional soundstage with precise instrument placement.  Reviews highlight its "spacious," "open," and "super precise soundstage."

• Low Surface Noise: The combination of the stiff cantilever and overall design results in very low surface noise, allowing the music to emerge from a quiet background. 

Overall, the boron cantilever helps the PP-200 deliver a sophisticated, vibrant, and detailed performance that reviewers describe as "compellingly open" and "astonishingly good" for its price, offering a significant step up in clarity and speed compared to cartridges with standard aluminum cantilevers." 

New Thread about Andy Kim, (needle clinic)

https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/the-needle-clinic-andy-kim