Micro Benz S Class cartridges

Boy would I love to know if the 2000 dollars to upgrade to the S class is worth it. ..just an idea Sonofjim...do you live in Arizona, and are you using a VPI 10.5i?? ..just a thought.

I don't live in Arizona(West Des Moines, Iowa) but I do use the 10.5i. I bought a spare arm wand when I got the Benz LP so I could keep my 90x mounted and aligned. So far though, I haven't felt the desire to take the Benz off. As it breaks in, I'm sure it will get even better. I'm also going to try aligning with the MintLP best tractor soon. It's nice to know that the S upgrade is available but I think I can hold off on that until I'm close to needing a retip. If you decide to take the plunge, be sure to post your findings. You may change my mind.

also.. let me know if the Mint protractor adds anything to your VPI tractor setup. Personally, I suspect not, but I haven't used a Mint.

My main reason, other than the recommendations of others, for trying the MintLP tractor is that my VPI jig never seems to lay flat on the platter. I'm thinking the glass tractor should lay flat and I'll trust my results more. It should also be easier to visualize alignment with the mirrored surface. I have nothing against VPI's method at all. I just don't trust my particular jig. Sorry Ebush. I didn't mean to turn your thread into another tractor dicussion. I will report on the results of this alignment method with the Benz LP.

Ebush,

although the latest Benzs are more neutral than in the past I wouldn't characterize their historical sound as neutral, more like big bottomed and rich. There are certainly more neutral cartridges with cleaner bass.