cartridge Benz, Koestu, Lyra

I have an Audio Research PH5 phono pre going into a VTL Tl-5.5 tube pre-amp. Only one phono pre. The Black is used, but I'm told not even yet broken in.

The Black is used, but I'm told not even yet broken in.
Jdodmead

Well, I hope you are happy with it. If you play that game long enough though, you will get burned eventually.

John,
I realize that buying used is somewhat of a gamble. I do my best on making sure that the seller is trustworthy, either by feedback or some of the thread responses. I have yet to run into a dishonest Audiogoner. I also realize that shipping is also a gamble, especially with tubes and carts. I also do a lot of selling on this site, which helps with my own upgrading, there is definitely more bang for the buck and until I hit the lotto, I will keep buying more used equipment. At least until I get burned.
I do appreciate your warning and hope that you do not get the opportunity to say" I told you so" and I'm sure that you are not hoping for that to happen.
Jeff

>>The Black is used, but I'm told not even yet broken in.<<

It's a rule that every used cartridge for sale on Audiogon has less than 100 hours of careful use.

:-)

I bought my Koetsu Black from a reputable party on audiogon. He said it only had 10 hours of use since it was on a demo table in his audio store. I have no doubt that this was true. I needed to play the cartridge for about 50 hours before it sounded right. The highs opened up and it became more transparent in the mids, while still having all of the glory of the Koetsu sound. Also VTA plays an important role with the Koetsu. I found that the arm just slightly lower in the back (bearing side) is ideal and tightened up the bass tremendously.