Mono switch on phono preamp vs Mono Cartridge


Just curious if anyone has tested and compared listening to mono record with a mono cartridge vs a mono switch on a phono preamp? I know the cartridge option would be better, but by how much?

I dont know how many mono records I own, I would need to try and figure it out, but i have been lately getting a lot of the Chess 75 blues mono records, have the Rolling Stones mono box set, etc, I would estimate about 50 currently and they are mostly modern pressing ones and not older originals. Plus , I assume it will keep growing.

Not sure if its worth getting a used Rega RB330 tonearm and mono cartridge and a Transrotor base for the arm or stick with the mono button on the phono preamp.

Rough estimate looking at about 1200 USD additonal costs

Setup:

My phono preamp allows for more tonearm connections, McIntosh MP1100.

Turntable - Transrotor Zet3 with TMD Bearing - RB880 with Hana ML

Curious to know thoughts about this, thanks

 

skads_187

If you do acquire a mono cartridge and ancillary gear, I advise you to use the mono switch on your preamp, as well, when playing mono LPs.

ok Thanks @lewm , just wanted to be sure in case i ever change phono preamp where the mono button isnt available, as many models dont have this feature.

i havent, but its an old and frequently asked question, and the consensus answer is a mono cart is noticeably better than a mono switch and worth every penny. 

so i bought an at33mono and will set it up when i can get to it. 

@skads_187 , i just listened to miles davis elevator to the gallows soundtrack on my denon DP-52F and at33mono cart, and its freakin fantastic. excellent dynamics, smooth, seems less surface noise than usual. im sold.