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Benz Ruby vs Ebony

I am trying to figure out the differences between these two Benz models. They both have the same MSRP and Benz's site doesn't offer any descriptions of them.

Since both models also offer a high and low output version I assume that the two models are voiced differently and am wondering if someone would be so kind as to describe the sonic differences.

Thanks.
madfloyd
thom_mackris's avatar
thom_mackris
680 posts
 
In less time than it took to post this reply, I came up with this:

http://www.musicalsurroundings.com/cartr.html where you'll find the correct prices.

There, you'll see that the Ruby 3H is $3,500, and the "S" class LP goes for $5,000.

The internet is an amazing resource. You might want to try using it to your advantage.

Is the real intent of this thread to explore the relative merits of the two cartridges? Now, that would be interesting.

Cheers,
Thom @ Galibier
dbjain
34 posts
 
I believe the Ebony is $3500.00 on said website. The LP is another class of cartridge.
mred
88 posts
 
Thom,
Not sure I follow your intent! It seems your scolding Madfloyd for asking for some sonic descriptions/opinions of these two exactly priced cartridges.What's the beef? Isn't "Discussion Forum" what this is all about?
madfloyd OP
411 posts
 
Thom,

As I mentioned, I did visit that site to try and find the info. Check that page carefully and you'll see that there are 3 Ebony models and 2 Ruby models, and all 5 are $3500.
thom_mackris's avatar
thom_mackris
680 posts
 
My bad (Madfloyd) ...

Upon a re-read, I see that you were interested in the standard Ebony, with which I have no experience. I should wait until my first cup of coffee before posting.

I too was looking to open up the discussion on the cartridges.

It's interesting that the name that Benz once reserved for their top of the line Ebony LP, is now used for another cartridge (o.k. ... without the "LP").

The LP "S" class is BTW an astounding cartridge, and one of the few which would not make me cry if I had to give up my XV-1s.

My experience of the earlier Rubies (Ruby 2 and not the 3) is that they were very nice, but just the slightest bit warm in the mid-bass.

I described them to Frank Schroeder as a wonderful cartridge which was designed using good solid state electronics as a reference. I wonder if the "lesser" of the Ebony cartridges addresses this slight mid-bass bloat (emphasis on the word "slight").

Frank Schroeder and I commiserated about this a few years ago and were in agreement - that with the introduction of what was then called the LP Ebony, they hit it out of the park.

Cheers,
Thom @ Galibier
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