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EMT TSD15 tonality..colouration ?

I am looking for a cartridge upgrade. I started with a Denon 103pro and now use a ZYX RS30. I listen to a good mix of old (pre 70s) and new records.
I am considering the EMT TSD15 cartridge because of its reputation of being musical and dynamic at the same time.

I have heard the TSD15 SFL in the past on a Scheu TT and I could notice some lower mids boost which alters the timbre of the instruments and voices a bit. That worries me. The DL103 is spot on in its tone and timbre reproduction, its my reference but it doesnt have the dynamics I look for. The other day I also heard a JSD5 and somehow I did not notice the lower mid colouration that I first heard with a TSD15 SFL. But the JSD is outside by budget.

Has anyone else found this character with TSD15 ? Is it a colouration with the SFL version or is it also there in the SPH (spherical) tip also ?
pani
syntax's avatar
syntax
2,033 posts
 
Well, all "that" is based from History from Radio Stations and their limited Bandwidth (High End Reproduction never was a goal at that time), of course these carts were "voiced" for that. Some Turntables at that time run with a higher speed than 33.33 to give the listeners a more dynamic reproduction in their cars while listening...(just one example no one wants to know today)
bydlo
84 posts
 
In my limited experience SPH also does have this "fatness" at the bottom. I'm also looking for a fast, dynamical cart without that coloration.

I'm wondering since EMT derives from SPU family, how different/similar would e.g. Royal N (nude to avoid the resonating enclosure) be? Any experiences?
Cheers,
bydlo
thuchan
955 posts
 
Pani,
don't buy used EMT carts which had a 'professional career' being played 3 months non stop. Most people only know about these used carts, they never listened to new TSDs or to even newer developments. If you especially go for a TSD15 Lzi you will go for one of the great carts in this audio world - the Japanese know, most European and American not.
Don't believe The old stories being told about TSDs. Real Bullshit or let it put in a more diplomatic way - a kind of ignorance

all the best
fjn04
1,339 posts
 
I have a Tsd-15 w/ Spherical tip. I do think in my system, it tends toward a warmer tonal balance. I would also say it has a bold/dynamic sound, as you described. Based on my time with the EMT, I don't hear the lower mid-range boost that you mention. I have had it for a few years, and have gone through at least one speaker change. The TSD-15 appeals to me both as an audiophile and a music lover. Has the audiophile side of me wanted to try another cartridge ? By all means, Yes!. Would I be without the Tsd-15 ? By all means, No!
thuchan
955 posts
 
Of course we need to agree that the cart is one thing, the chain after is another.
Put an M5 BMW motor in a peugeot and?
Oh yes the road? The M5 needs good tarmac.,,no? Well a cart and TT etc....need good recordings...same thing "black surface".
Another suggestion is a TSD15 Anniversary Gold, okay for the budget and you will love it - I am pretty sure

all the best
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