SPU cartridges - opinions?

Have to agree with Wrm57, I have an 85th Anniversary Urushi G-body. Fantastic on voice, jazz etc. Really musical. It does have the reputation of resonance, but you use that to the advantage of the music. Complicated orchestral isn't ideal, but not disappointing at all.

Thank you everyone--this feedback is very helpful! Please keep the comments coming.

Any specific users of both spherical and elliptical SPU styli models who could comment on the differences?

Thanks again--

Kip

I also have a Mono GM, which has a spherical stylus profile. I've hardly used it, though, because I like the Royal GM II so much--even on mono records. The Replicant stylus digs out much more detail, and my phono stage has a mono switch that sums the channels, so it's a worthy trade off for mono records.

In general, I think you'd find that the more sophisticated stylus profiles will deliver more detail while retaining much of the SPU magic. And, IMO, SPUs need the extra detail because of their bias towards midrange warmth. I'd be far less satisfied with less detail in mine. But if you're really after a vintage sound, spherical might do the trick. I haven't done a comparison with stereo SPUs.

BTW, mine is installed on an idler, too, a Nantais Reference Lenco. In fact, when I was debating whether to add the capacity for a second arm, Jean declared that the main reason to have a second arm would be "to experience the glories of SPUs." I'm very glad I took his advice. Idlers and SPUs are a sweet match!

all the different generations of SPU's have their own sound signature, that is why so many "old" cartridges are actually prized more in Japan, the land of these....if the Japanese would not keep the demand for these cartridges, we would have lost them as we have lost all the Grrards,Lencos, EMT's etc....Have fun, buy many and listen to yourself!

Thanks again to everyone who replied--the feedback is very helpful.

Right now I'm leaning towards finding an SPU-G 90th Anniversary model and after listening to it, I may try adding a spherical-stylus SPU in the future.

Again, thanks everyone!