Neil, I agree with all that you say. That's good advice when buying used audio gear. However, I still say "Don't buy used phono cartridges". It is BY FAR the riskiest investment that you can possibly make in used audio. Mostly because the wear and tear are not visible to the naked eye. I learned this lesson the hard way years ago. Hopefully more than Ryan will learn from this. Buy the best NEW cartridge that you like and/or can afford.
Cheers,
John
Cheers,
John