Goldring 1042 Cartridge - Review
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- Опубликовано: 20 окт 2024
- A review of the Goldring 1042? Oh yes but this video is a lot more, it's also a Buyer's Guide when you want to upgrade your cheap and cheerful moving magnet cartridge but you're worried about the leap to moving coil technology. So, a 2-in-1 video then.
You can also read my review of the 1042 on my site here: theaudiophilem...
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NOTE: The sort of turntable I expect you to have at this point, when offering this advice, would be priced around the £500+ area.
Evening!! Well, I did it, off the back of your review I purchased the Goldring 1042. Fitted to my Goldring Lenco GL75 using a Vincent PHO 700 phone stage, Audiolab pre and power amps, and Kef Reference Model 2 speakers. It's utterly incredible compared to the Shure M97xe I was using prior. Thanks for the great review. Enjoying your channel, keep up the good work. Danny
Glad you're happy with your purchase Danny and very happy that it's all working well for you. Thanks for your kind words too :)
The recent drop in price makes Goldring 1042 purchase a no-brainer for anyone searching for MM cartridge (as long as its compliance is within the acceptable range). I am always amazed by the stage that 1042 builds in the room. Not every cartridge can make the stage so wide and precise while keeping the energy at the same time. I enjoy 1042 a lot, probably even a little bit more than Goldring Eroica LX with its Gyger II profile (and fantastic control on the low frequencies).
Phono stage: Arcam rPhono
Interesting video as always on this splendid channel, but I think it should be mentioned that things are a little more complicated in "Cartridge World" than shown here, and this goes for Goldring in particular who won't give out the specifications necessary for customers to evaluate if the 1042 might work with their particular setup before forking out around 300 Euros. So you have to "suck it and see", or go by the advice of your dealer. I personally have had two of these cartridges over the years and found them somewhat problematic for the following reasons:
1. The 1042 does not work well on lightweight tonearms such as the classic 9" SME arms or the tonearms on most Dual turntables. Presumably, the problem is a relatively low compliance cantilever, but then again, the figure is kept secret by Goldring.
2. The Goldring 1042 (like c. 98 pct. of all cartridges) is too tall for the Rega tonearms, meaning that you need to use spacers between the arm base and the deck, which in turn makes the arm interfere with the cover when the latter is down. Sod's law.
3. Even if luck is on your side and your tonearm can cope with the 1042, it still sounds in my opinion rather overblown, brash and bass heavy in a ploddy way. It also emphasizes surface noise and sibilance on inner grooves unless you spend a considerable amount of time on finding its exact "sweet spot" in regard to VTF, VTA and azimuth.
4. The Fritz Gyger stylus design is known for being one of the most demanding designs when it comes to setting up your tonearm. (Ortofon also used it for a while but today are using the Shibata design instead in this price range. I don't think Gyger make styli anymore at all, but it seems that Goldring still have some boxes of these needles that they need to use up before changing to something else also.)
5. There are better and more flexible alternatives in this price range, such as the high output MC Denon DL110 or the Nagaoka MP-150. I'd stay well away from the current Ortofon 2M range, but if you want a really cheap and cheerful MM/MI, go to flee bay and find a s/h Ortofon cartridge from the 510, 520, 530, 540 range (still available from new in Germany as the Vinyl Master series) and then buy a brand new Ortofon 320 stylus for it. This is a Line Contact design from the now-abandoned 3XX P-mount range but fits perfectly on a standard 5XX range cartridge, and spare styli are still available from dealers such as Thakker in Germany. Put the two together and, voila, you have an excellent Line Contact cartridge that suits a wide variety of tonearms and costs less than 100 Euros - but that's just my humble opinion of course.
6. Finally just a little linguistic comment: In Musicology, the term "dynamics" is strictly limited to the issue of volume.
I purchased a Goldring 1042 2 years ago and agree with Audiophile man. I am delighted with it and the Shure cartridge I had back in drawer
This is very interesting. I personally went from a Grado Black1 on a U-Turn Orbit with a Pluto to upgrading the phono stage to a Lehmann Audio Black Cube Statement and then a Nagaoka MP-110 with that setup, then the Ortofon 2M Black LVB 250 and tried both of those cartridges with that external phono stage on a Technics SL-1210GR. I have yet to try a moving coil for myself but for now I am happy with what I have.
Last year I picked up a Systemdek i920 with the 1042 fitted for £4 at a local charity shop! After some basic maintenance and a new belt (£11) the listening experience was amazing when compared to my old Technics SL B210 turntable I'd got use to. Pity I can't afford to replace it if I ever had to though 😁
Glad I found this..Upgrading to a Technics 1500c but wanted to improve from the blue ortofon to the black or a moving coil. I will go slower now. Will get a new pre amp when the time comes for it..Thank you.
So long as you have a fine line or nude super elliptical rather than the conical or spherical tipped ones on cheaper carts. The biggest sound improvement would be a stylus shape upgrade. In my opinion
Great sage and practical advice sir. I have been contemplating moving to a MC from a MM 2M black for reasons of more detail. My TT is a VPI Prime and a new McIntosh integrated with MM & MC inputs. I listen to rock/blues/progressive jazz. Not sure if an additional phono preamplifier is necessary. Your thoughts? Cheers.
Thanks for your kind words, Greg. What's your budget please? And what external phono amp do you use or do you use a built-in model?
This cartridge is top notch ,it’s is a very enjoyable cartridge to listen to ,good bass & sweet treble ,I’ve had mine for years & still gives great pleasure .Enjoy .
Thank you. Great advice, thoughtfully explained. I enjoyed this vid.
Hello Paul,
Thanks for the superb review!I have a Rega Planar 3 (2016) with an Elys 2 cart and a Rega Phono mm mk3 phono amp with a Hegel Rost integrated! I am looking to upgrade the Cartridge and have been thinking about Rega exact, Goldring 1042 and Ortofon 2m bronze.
My question is how is the synergy between Goldring and Rega ? How easy or difficult is it to install the cart and adjust the VTA etc?
If you have concerns about VTA then Rega does sell a VTA spacer and there are third party units for sale too. Even so, Rega doesn't really believe that there's an issue with VTA on its lower end decks though so it might be an idea to install any new cart first and see what you think. Personally, I like to see any tonearm level before play so I'd go for the spacer. It's a shame that Rega doesn't make this process easier. As for the carts? The 1042 offers great value, I'd go for that. The cart is easy to install. The spacer installation demands that you unscrew the arm, place the spacer on the plinth, then screw the arm back on the spacer: www.rega.co.uk/arm-height-adjustment-spacer.html
Have you ever tried the Rega Exact? I've narrowed a new cartridge for a Planar 3 down to the Exact (for ease of installation really) or the Goldring because the reviews are all good. Any advice? Or other recommendations!
The Rega Exact does not have a replaceable stylus. However, Rega will rebuild it for you. According to those who know about such things, the Exact is an Audio Technica model, tweaked here and there and rebadged as a Rega. It's dimensions are almost identical to to a AT VM series cartridge, and these feature removable /replaceable styli. This means it is the same height as a Rega cartridge and will fit a Rega tonearm/turntable, without fouling the lid. They also allow fitment of all VM styli to any VM body, meaning you could fit a better stylus profile to your existing VM body and gain improved sound quality. It's an effective and reasonably priced way of upgrading.
good cartridge iI had one for years still my spares box when i upgraded to 2M Black , but was the Cartridge that gave me the real Vinyl experience And would recommend
I have a question that has been niggling me, is there a difference between the 1042 and the G1042?
what a thoughtful piece! thank you. I just upgraded my stylus from a 1006 to a 1042 and can’t wait to hear how that changes things. being that we are a little over a year since this piece, do you have any updates on a recommended phono amp upgrade?
Depends on your budget, Tracy.
Thx a lot for your great videos! Plenty of useful details in them.
I have the 1042 for the last 3 years and really like it however I'm feeling a bit itchy and would like to upgrade, I'm thinking of going with the Hana ML, would you say it'll be significant sound quality upgrade?
I have a good preamp that can also do MC.
Thx 😊
Hi, I used a Goldring 1042 cartridge on an Ittok lv111 for over twenty years. Due to the price of a replacement 1042 stylus I bought the cheaper 1006 replacement stylus tip that slotted into the 1042 body. It sounds pretty good, but would the 1042 tip sound a lot better?
Hi Frank, you have the advantage there because I've never fitted a 1006 tip into a 1042 chassis but my *guess* is that the 1042 tip would be better, as the 1042 tip offers a more advanced profile.
I know this is an older video, but i have a Pro-ject debut S/E 3 turntable, with an upgraded platter (acrylic). The cartridge provided in an Ortofon SuperOM 10, and after reading around (and seeing your review, by-the-way... :)) I was thinking of upgrading the cartridge to a Goldring 1042. Do you think this is a wise upgrade? (I haven't upgraded the turntable cables - yet - and my receiver is a Denon AVR-3805 which has a phono pre-amp built-in).
Thank you, Paul. My 1st turntable was a p-mount Technics bought in 1988, so all of this is a bit new to me again. Glad to see you're thinking of the music-loving consumer. QUESTION: is it true a high-output MC may work on a MM pre-amp? thx.
I was researching cartridges to replace the Shure m97 on my Technics 1200 mk2 and ordered a Goldring 1042 after looking at your review and all I can say is WOW! The difference is night and day. It is so crisp and clear. How much better would an MC cartridge be? Just a tip for anyone in the U.S. who wants to buy a Goldring, you will save $300 if you order it from Europe.
Moving coil is so way above my price range if (as you say) you still need a MC pre amp. I have an old Marantz 6320 turntable with a SME 3009 Improved tonearm. My lowly Goldring 1010 MM needle does the record thing. This coupled to an old NAD 3080 amp and finally some home made mix of speakers made up of some high end Chinese speakers (better than you think ...) and a set of early 1990's Pioneer speakers with nice 12" bases. Love my set up and just do not want more ...
For God's sake don't even think of putting a GL1042 on an SME 3009 arm. It will be a mismatch made in Hell. Find an s/h Shure M75 T2 or V15III instead. An Audio Technica AT13EA can be even better. Nothing with a VTF over 1.5g. If the styli are worn out, get a new copy made by JICO, preferably the SAS type. Use Thakker in Germany or Dacapo in Denmark. (Just my 10c/1DKK.)
Nice Review Paul I Had a Goldring G800E Back in The Day Used in a GL78 Turntable Loved That Cart Today I Use a 2M Black Regards mike
hi, how would you compare the nagaoka mp-200 against the 1042? thanks im planning to use with a technics sl1200mk5, simaudio moon neo ace and bowers and wilkins 706 s2.
J v - good question and one I can’t answer properly, I’m afraid, because I’ve never done a proper A-B test on the pair. I have heard the 200 in isolation and was very happy with it. I would encourage a demo if you can. If you twisted my arm? Mmmm, I might go for the 200 but take that with a grain or two of salt because of the different variables in listening kit and conditions.
Thank you for such a great video. I have an EAR 834P Valve Phono Clone as a preamp.
I have an old Goldring 1042 cartridge, should I buy a replacement stylus or just buy a new cartridge with the stylus included?
Thanks
A stylus replacement will be fine Vox.
Just bought the attessa turntable and have a brand new 1042 would it be beneficial swapping it from the dana cartridge that's on it
Thanks
Hello Paul,
thanks for nice review. I have one question, recently I purchased Technics SL-1500C turntable with supplied Ortofon 2M Red and built-in phono. What do you think, is Goldring 1042 good step up while I want to use built-in phono? Or would you recommend some other cartridge which can "sit down" well with Technics?
Thanks!
Hi 180g - from this moment on, in terms of upgrading, your internal phono amp is the bottleneck. So I wouldn't waste your money on a Goldring until you find yourself an external phono amplifier. Otherwise, you'll probably be only hearing 40% of the goodness from the 1042. If you need help on choosing an external phono, give me a shout but I'll need a budget figure.
@@TheAudiophileMan Hello Paul, thank you for your response! I went through many reviews of SL-1500C and many reviewers says that this TT is capable to handle much better cartridges, even 2M Black is possible. And sound improvement is big. So I was living in hope that is really good phono. Anyway, if I should choose phono, I am already decided for Moon 110LP V2. But if you have another tip for bargain up to 500€, I am listening and open to new options :) Thanks!
Hi 180g, the potential of the turntable and the actuality of the built-in phono amp are, in my opinion at least, two very different things. Your choice of the Moon as a phono upgrade is excellent and I back that. Once you have that, then sure, go for the Goldring.
@@TheAudiophileMan Hello Paul! It's not the same. You are right, I agree. Thank you for confirming my choice for phono, I am happy about it! Two more questions :) I hope it's ok. When I will buy that Moon phono, does it have sense to buy Goldring, or even better sense is to buy MC cartridge? Which MC cartridge would you recommend to have this package complete? (please recommend some exact model by your personal experience or preference) Does it have sense use 500-700€ MC cartridge on 1000€ turntable with 500€ phono? Or is it waste of money? Thank you!
I'm so glad I have found this video!...Recently I decided to go from the At95e to the Ortofon Red. Now I like the At95e but realised there was lots of detail missing when compared to the Ortofon,. That being said.... I really don't like the Ortofon as it just seems too bright. Something in between, that has that warmth yet detail would be perfect.
The Ortofon Red would sound bright after the AT95E, but that's because the latter doesn't have much top end, not the other way around.
Thoughts on moving iron cartridges (e.g. SoundSmith)? Touted as the best of both worlds, MC sound dynamics/quality but output level on par with MM so no step-up transformer required.
Hi Mitch - yes, I'm a big fan - as you can see here with this Soundsmith/Origin Live combo review. Relatively expensive compared to the 1042, of course: theaudiophileman.com/aladdin-cartridge-origin-live-review/
@@TheAudiophileMan My read of the linked article is that while you liked the SS cartridge, you preferred the MC one mentioned. If my interpretation is accurate, is there a price level where MI performs better (in your opinion) than a similarly priced MC (or vice-versa)?
I have a Goldring 1042 on a Thorens TD 166 mk II into a Linn Karin pre. I have been pretty satisfied with that combo listening on loudspeakers, but I have now started listening via headphones via a Bottlehead crack. And now naturally, the stylus contact noise as you mentioned, is not a problem via speakers, but became significantly more noticeable via headphones. So contemplating upgrade or most likely replacement. That deck might not be a particularly attractive upgrade platform, so thinking secondhand Rega P3 and Funkfirm upgrade. Thoughts? Perhaps suggestions of a pickup that is nice with headphones is a good place to start and then work backwards to a deck that works well with that pickup. Thinking budget around 1500£
I upgraded from a 1042 to a Dynavector DV-20X2L and still use the Schiit mani for phono pre-amp, it performs brilliantly for the price. I'd like to upgrade but I think the only way is to spend around £1000 for a 5-10% improvement. According to Ian @ HiViNyws channel the Mani competes with most phono stages between £500-750. I'm not saying Ian is the final word in phono pre-amps reviews but his gear is fairly similar to mine so I like to pay attention to his what he's saying. Maybe a Rega Aria is a move up for me... any ideas?
BTW your videos are great and your website is astounding - you review some proper nice gear, I didn't know you had website before today. Maybe have a little banner in the bottom corner of your videos to let people know more about you.
US and Canadian buyers should seriously consider the Lounge Audio Copla-LCR Mk. III combo if you want a low-output MC. Ian did not like the LCR Mk. III at all but I have owned and loved one since March 2016. I have heard the Schiit Mani in person and it performs well with MM's but less so with MC's.
Hello - thanks for the videos. I'm new to the world of turntables and stylus/cartridges etc. I had a decent set up back when I was growing up but now I'm sort of relearning it all. I have a technics SL-1600, Sony receiver with phono inputs and polk audio speakers. The turntable came with a cheap audio technica cartridge and I know already I want to upgrade. I am a bit confused about pre amp - and if I need one or not? Or does that depend on the cartridge? Is a pre-amp necessary with a receiver? I have been looking at lots of reviews and comparisons between anything from the Ortofon red/blue/bronze to the Goldring e3 - and just looking at this review - the goldring 1042 sounds like it's pretty amazing. Some like Shure, some like the nagaoka MP-110 or 200. I know I am not going to get moving coil - can't go that far but I would love to find out what you recommend and what I need to know about my setup. I don't think the turntable has a preamp built in - otherwise I wouldn't have had to buy a receiver. Thanks for your time and help.
No probs, Jeannine. Do you have a budget figure?
Hi! I ve recently bought a 2nd end Thorens TD160 MKII with a TP63 tonearm. I also have a sansui AU-D607 Amp with MM and MC phono preamp. I am looking for a new cartridge but not sure what to pick. Atm I have an Ortofon m10 on it. Also there is a white noise/buzz when the amp is half way between minimum and max power.
In 2018 I upgraded from a Grado Prestige Black to a Goldring G1042. January this I moved on from my Project Phono Amp to a Graham Slee + Subsequently added the PSU--1 power supply. In other words I think I followed your advice before there was your advice to follow. Have you tried one of the "bodged" Goldring's ? By "bodged" I mean cartridges like the Audio Note IQ2 & 3 ( which obviously aren't "bodged" in the literal sense ). I was wondering if the IQ3 Stylus would fit a G1042 body.
Thanks for your thoughts, Martin and no, I've yet to try those. If you ever hear of any thoughts from anyone else, I'd be interested to hear what they say.
IIRC the Audio Note IQ bodies & styli are designed thus that an IQ stylus will fit the IQ body, but not a Goldring 1000 series body, although every Goldring 1000 stylus will fit an IQ body.
The IQ bodies use essentially the same body design and generator with the same parameters, but are built with higher-grade parts, like better wire for the coil windings etc.
So if you want the "best of the best" of the G1000 series, find yourself an Audio Note IQ body at least and then get a G1042 stylus for it, if not the more expensive AN styli.
I am currently running an Audio Note IQ 3 body with a Goldring 1042 stylus. There is a very noticeable improvement in sound quality over the Golding 1042 cartridge. Others who run this combo claim it's about 80%of an IQ 3. I'm inclined to agree. You can fit any Goldring 1xxx series styli to an Audio Note body, but you cannot fit an Audio Note stylus to a Goldring 1xxx series body. The locating stubs are of different sizes.
I have a GR 1012gx now, would moving to 1042 give me a significant difference. I am also considering moving to Dynavector 10X5. If not.. what upgrade would you recommend in the $1000 range..
Check out this one: ruclips.net/video/egaoi4aZVR8/видео.html
not quite. SCHIIT MANI
phono preamp for MC and MM cartridges is excellent and only $149.. really no reason to not experiment with both MM & MC at that price.
I like the Mani a lot - as you can see here: theaudiophileman.com/schitt-mani/ but it's not one I would use for a £400 moving coil of the Hana-type quality. That's where I was ultimately going (or further) in this video. For that, I'd be looking at better quality.
Hi Paul. Thank you for the interesting insights. Based on these I'd like your opinion. I've had a Goldring 1006 on a Linn Basik / Akito arm for a while now, which I'm generally very happy with. Do you think there would be a noticeable difference/improvement if I were to replace the 1006 stylus with a 1042?
I would say so, yes Mark.
Mark Stanley-Adams
Hi Mark. I also had a 1006 and upgraded the stylus to a 1042 after about 7-8 months or so, and the 1042 caused a noticeable upgrade in sound quality. The great thing about the 10XX series of Goldring carts, is that you only have to upgrade the stylus, as I’m sure you know. My phono pre is a Tavish Classic and my turntable is a heavily upgraded and modded Technics sl1200 MK5, if that’s of any interest to you also. Good luck!
@@NickP333 Hi Nick. Thank you for the feedback. Good to know.. much appreciated - and apologies for the late reply :)
Thanks for the review Paul great as always. Can anyone report on the level of difficulty to set up this cartridge? Some reviews online mention that it can be tricky, which is the only thing putting me off at this stage! I have a technics 1210 mk2. Thanks
Simply congratulations!
Dear Sir,
With your great advice, I bought the Audio Technica LP5 and I’m very very happy, thank you again! After two or three months I bought another cartrige, Goldring E3 just because I read your review, and I love its fantastic sound. But, because it reproduces sibilants and distorsions on some of my old LPs (from sixties and seventies), now I want a Goldring, but with a nude stylus. I understood that Goldring 1012GX and especially 1042 are extremely good, your video proves it.
BUT these carts need an exact VTA (and I have no means to adjust my tonearm) and the price is too big (1012 having the same price with my LP5, and the 1042 is even more expensive - so, I am convinced these cartdriges exceed my turntable limits, as you said it in your note. I ended up looking at 1006. Do you think it can mach with my turntable, a Marantz PM5005 amplifier (I use its integrated phono amp) and Magnat stand floor speakers, I mean it does not reproduces the low frequencies in such a manner that cover (and sink) the other frequencies, treble especially? Maybe important: I listen 90% classical music.
And two more question, if you PLEASE don’t mind: 1. The 1006 has the same VTA (24 degrees) with the two others, but because it is an elliptical nude, not Geiger stylus, it’s a really deadly problem? If it is, I must not buy it. And the last one: I search and i search and I did not found what is the lifespan of stylus for 1006. If it is under 1000 hours, I will say pass. THANK YOU!
What phono amp are you using?
@@TheAudiophileMan The internal phono amp of Marantz. Or the amplifier "integrated" phono amp? Wow, I did not hoped you will answer so soon!!! Excuse me, please, for this delayed answer.
An external phono amp may be a good move to generally improve the output from your turntable.
@@TheAudiophileMan Thank you so much, and have a good evening! And I can Goldring 1006 go (ori stay on its shelf), I suppose.
Just came across your video. I have a Linn turntable and Grace 707 arm from 1979, and Corus Black cartridge from about 1993. I know this is similar to Goldring 1042. I have wondered if I should upgrade arm and cartridge but I really need some help. Phono preamp is Vincent Tube.
Do you have a budget?
for de goldring 1042, i am convinced, but now, and related i ask for another item of the problem, the turntable, my first choice is the rega planar 3, or do you have another option, my other components are the audiolab 8000, and the Rega RS3 for the headphones, what other turntable do you sugest please, thks
The Rega is a good choice. The NAD 588 is another option along with the Pro-Ject RPM3 or Funk Firm Gett.
I considered the 1042 for my Gett! (Replacing an E3) I opted for the AT VM540ML instead. I am bit of a AT fan though.
I have just bought a cartridge-less Rega Planar 6 (2017), as the first part of a system-wide upgrade. In the spirit of your great advice, and to placate my wallet, I am looking at either a Rega Exact (which I can get demoed to me by my local hifi shop), or the Goldring 1042, which would be a punt, as I cannot hear it in action prior to buying. The Rega is obviously easier to fit, but assuming I go for the Goldring, will I need spacers for VTA? If so, that will scare me off!
That's the only issue with Rega - its the arm thing that forces those who are a little nervous, to buy Rega cartridges. Something I dislike because its a removal of consumer freedom. So yes, you'll needs spacers for a 1042.
Fit one of the AT VM series cartridges. They have the same dimensions as the Exact, which is basically a rebadged AT. All the VM series like the Goldring 1xxx series, allow fitment of different VM styli in the same body, so, depending on budget, you can fit whatever you can afford, knowing these are interchangeable.
I’m watching this review for the third time!! I’m shopping for a MM cartridge for a Technics SL1200 GR, from new. Turntable comes without a cartridge. I’m looking at the Arcam SA10 integrated amp too. Ortofon Bronze or Goldring 1042 or something more expensive? As you said, this is a stressful time. For me it is anyway. Thank you for a very good vid.
The Goldring 1042 is an excellent cartridge. In your case, I would also suggest that, in addition to the Goldring, you consider Nagaoka. They are moving iron type, which is set up and treated as a moving magnet cartridge. Like the Goldring, they also have a removable stylus, which can be upgraded. Try one, if you can.
Hello! Very informative and helpful video for someone new to this world! I have a first generation U-Turn Orbit with the AT-95E and was considering this upgrade but I'm unsure about potential bottle-necking. My current pre-amp is the ART DJPRE II going into an ONKYO TX-8220 and Klipsch RP-600Ms. Is this kind of cartridge going to be worth it on my end, or should I consider upgrading other components first? Kind regards!
I would go as far as a Goldring E3, say, but if you have the budget for this cart then I'd look at a turntable upgrade for now. Then your phono amp ASAP after that. Let me know if that sounds like a plan and, if so, what budget you might have available.
@@TheAudiophileMan Thanks for the advice! I was hoping not to spend more than $400-500 right now, are there options in the turntable market that are going to be appealing there, or should I wait till I have more funds available?
@@DJTetreault93 Rega's Planar 1 is a top notch design: www.amazon.com/REGA-Rega-RP1-Turntable-Gray/dp/B004B3GELG/ref=sr_1_5?dchild=1&keywords=rega+planar+1+turntable&qid=1589273429&sr=8-5 but you do pay more than you should because you pay for Reg'as US-based shipping costs.
Pro-Ject's RPM 1 is another sub-$500 option in terms of pure audiophile (better value): www.amazon.com/Pro-Ject-Carbon-Manual-Turntable-Black/dp/B00NOPAS3M/ref=sr_1_20?dchild=1&keywords=project+turntable&qid=1589272596&sr=8-20
There's plenty of upgrade options here too, when you have the cash.
The Audio-Technica AT-LP5 is another alternative, if the look of the RPM1 peturbs you a tad :) : www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-AT-LP5-Direct-Drive-Turntable-Black/dp/B01HMW46US/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=Audio-Technica+lp-5+turntable&qid=1589273300&sr=8-3
A lifestyle option, semi-automatic if that's important, would be Fluance's RT84.
@@TheAudiophileMan Cheers! I really appreciate you taking the time, I'll be sure to share the channel!
Great video as usual thank you for sharing.
Hi Paul. I’m revisiting this thread because I’m curious to dip my toe in the moving coil upgrade path. I’ve recently invested in a Rega aria from a schiit mani and it’s superb. Currently running goldring 1042 and nagaoka on technics sl1200gr into a Yamaha as1200 and wharfedale evo 4.4. I’m torn between ortofon quintet blue, hana el and project pick it. Help......
I'd lean towards the Hana, Gary.
@@TheAudiophileMan thanks as always Paul.
I'm planning to get my first turntable Rega RP2 with etheir Rega MK3 or Schiit Mani preamp. Will Goldring be a good combination with the rest of my setup? I already got Cambridge CXA61 integrated amp and a pair of KEF Q150s. I will be mainly listening to electronic music. Thanks.
Hi Dominik - thanks for your question and absolutely. The Rega has a good arm which will supply a solid support for the 1042 and those phonos are recommended. Here's my Mani review, in case you find it of use: theaudiophileman.com/schitt-mani/
Magnificent summing up of the eternal conundrum of upgrading from a Moving Magnet cartridge to a Moving Coil cartridge. I've owned a Goldring 1000 Series cartridge this 25 years or more. I've never felt the need to upgrade it but I've been sorely tempted many times, especially so this Summer, to go down the Moving Coil route. The Hana in all its affordable guises has been one temptress. As you said you also have to take into account that the cost of the cartridge has to be almost doubled to take into account that it needs another box to get it working. Even if you go for the high output version I still feel you need another box (Step Up Transformer) to bring it up to the correct voltage. Anyway what I did do was totally unexpected. To put it simply I went for a four band equaliser instead from a US company called Schiit. It's called a Loki Mini. I think it's time you did a review of it Paul as it's only truly awesome. Totally transparent in all its settings i.e. Off/On/Bypassed. All I can say is that it's one of my better upgrades to date. Over to you Paul 🤓
Many thanks for your kind words Dermot and, yep, I'll put that on the list :)
Looking forward to it 🎸
Great review...you have sold me on the 1042...but my dilemma is to put it on my Michell Focus One/Linn LVV or my ProJect 1Xpression Carbon UKX...and sell the remaining deck....any thoughts....as it stands K9 on Focus and 2M Silver on ProJect...I find the Focus/LVV/K9 much smoother in delivery of more detailed sound than the ProJect. Thanks in advance
I think you've just answered your own question there, Paul :) Seems you prefer the Focus so concentrate on that set up re. upgrades.
@@TheAudiophileMan somebody has pointed me in the direction of the AT 95 range...and comparison between them and the 1000 series?
I like the 1042. The AT95E - if that's what you mean - can't compete with the 1042.
@@TheAudiophileMan bough a 2nd hand 8 month old 1042....whacked it in the Focus/LVV and it is brilliant
Enjoyed the video. Surface noise is a big issue for me as I have a collection of used records bought second hand. I use a Denon DL110 on a Linn LP12 and surface noise is minimal compared to an Ortofon 2M Blue that I used.
Have you any experience of a DL110 and how it compares to the 1042 ? I’m looking to change my cartridge soon. Many thanks.
Hi sam66muso - can I ask what phono amp you're using with the Denon?
The Audiophile Man I’m using a Heed Audio Quasar, it can be used with MM and MC low or high output cartridges. Thanks
I am a fan of Heed's products - as this review of one of their other phono amps attests: theaudiophileman.com/heed-quester-phono-amplifier-take-heed/...and this one too! : theaudiophileman.com/heeds-thesis/ If you're running a Linn and the Heed, I would head for the moving coil hills on this one. What's your budget?
I had this cartridge way back around 2002 with a Rega arm on a Mitchell Syncro, I think it was about £120 ish then.
Love this cartridge
Unfortunately in the US
There priced ridiculously
High
Would you still recommend it at its new price of over £350.
Why I am asking is I have a Linn LP12 with Roksan Nima arm and a free Sumiko Pearl cartridge coming on Wednesday morning from Inspire Audio in Chesterfield. It’s a turntable that I have always admired and craved, I have a landmark birthday early next year so it’s time I stopped wishing and put my order in. It is a Majik but has the Inspire upgrade’s. Robert there rates the Sumiko highly as a budget cartridge. My phono amp in a budget Project mkII.
Watching this video once more is throwing up lots of questions in my head. Make do with the Sumiko until funds allow for something much better or order the 1042 now then as you suggested waiting longer and upgrading the phono amp first then onto a moving coil? As I have spent quite a bit on the turntable funds are now a bit tight. I also have an Ittok arm and K9 cartridge on my other deck a Revolver, Robert rates the Roksan/Sumiko combination as better on his improved Linn so I will be using the older set up to play my old second hand records. I also have a ATVM95c stylus for the K9 which I thought would be best for this. Any advice is always appreciated.
How does this compare to the at vm95ml?
The 95 is excellent - the 1042 is better. It should though, it's much more expensive.
Hi Paul. Best review! I need your advice. I own a Pro-Ject X1 and want to upgrade the cartridge.
My budget is about 250 to 300. I was looking at the Goldring 1042 but it doesn’t fit. Then I looked forward to Ortofon 2m Bronze, Nagaoka mp 150 or 20o, Sumiko Moonstone, Aaudio Technica VM740ML or750SH and the Denon 103 r. I truly need your help. Many thanks.
When you say the Goldring doesn't fit - can you explain?
@@TheAudiophileMan I wanted to buy the Goldring but the seller said that the cartridge isn’t ok for the X1, because it can’t be mount on.
First, I was surprised because I taught that it fits from my knowledge, but then when he said that I doesn’t, I taught ok than it is so.
I received this from my contact in Pro-Ject - hope it helps: "I’m not very familiar with the cartridge, but superficially I can see it’s a standard 0.5” mount and is 6.3g. So physically it should be fine to accommodate (though maybe he’ll need a different counterweight). The X1 also has VTA adjustment, if that’s a problem.
Not knowing the nuances of the cartridge, I would normally say this looks OK for installation.
If I had received this mail, before offering anything definitive I would encourage him to find out if there’s something the dealer knows that we don’t (even if it’s just from experience)."
Thank you so much for your effort. Happy that it should go 😊.
So, if then I understand you right, you prefer the Goldring over the Denon 103r and all the other that I mention?
Once again 100x thanks for your answer and effort. Glad I found your channel and someone who really cares about what he answers and his expertise!!!
For that turntable, yep.
many thanks for your advice!!!
I myself have a Goldring 1055 cartrige and a manticore mantra turntable wit a musician tonearm, and a preamp from croft "absolut", 2 bridged stereo modified power amps from leak ( from the sixties "TL/12 Plus" ) and harbeth HL5 speakers.
many greetings from germany and stay safe!
I got this cartridge recently and for the life in me cant get it to sound right, its tinny, sibilant, harsh treble, barely any bass, distortion in singers voices. Ive gone over everything with setup and it still sounds poor. It’s been back to goldring and tested and it’s apparently fine. I had the e3 before the 1042 and that had lovely deep tuneful bass, rich mids and clear treble. I’ve spent that long faffing with it and waiting for it to magically change after the very long run in period that Im on the verge of throwing the thing in the bin and getting something different. I hear people talk about this cart being smooth and plenty of bass, I’ll tell you it’s the polar opposite. 👎🏻
I've just upgraded to a Goldring 1042 from an AT and a Goldring E3. OMG I can't believe how much more clarity and detail there is with the 1042..... If like me you've been using sub £150 cartridges then I highly recommend upgrading to the 1042.
I'm using a Rega Planar 3 setup.
Many moons ago I bought a new Linn LP12, Ekos & Goldring 1012 GX. Goldring 1000 series takes 4 different styli using the same cartridge body. I "upgraded" the stylus from the 1012 (D12) to a 1042 (D42). It was the worst upgrade ever. I sold the 1042 and bought another 1012. The 1012 has a different profile, being a gyger 2 profile. The sound of the 1012 is far superior to the 1042, most notably the top end. In my opinion the 1042 offers poor value for money. The 1042 retails for approx. £325, whereas the 1012 retails for £275.
I loved my at440mlb
A AT95E oliptical for £35 where?
This is a two-year old video so things have moved on. If you're looking for an AT95E then I'd actually recommend its replacement nowadays, the VM95E.
@@TheAudiophileMan but the price has done nothing to do with inflation it's no where near the Same
@@gingernutpreacher I don’t know, maybe there was an Amazon deal on at the time. Who knows? Good grief, I have trouble remembering what I did/said last week, never mind producing cartridge retail price point lists from two years ago. And who cares, anyway? That wasn’t the point. I was talking about a larger issue here. So relax. It’s not a make or break issue :)
@@TheAudiophileMan I get your point but I was going to buy it to find it now over laps with lots of other cartridges and my biggest headache is not buying a high end one happyly spend £200 not happy to spend £150 every time I need a new stilli
@@gingernutpreacher Wouldn’t asking a trusted critic for advice be cheaper? And if you did want to undertake such a test, I’ve already mentioned the VM95E.
If I didn't have a nagaoka mp200 I would have got this
The 1042 is £350!
First of all - great review!
I’d love to upgrade from Elys 2 to GR 1042, but i am just a bit afraid that the actual installation might be a bit tricky.
I have a Rega P3 - do i need spacers for my tonearm?
Probably, yes. Haven't tried that particular cart on a Rega but I reckon you'll need a spacer. If you decide to keep the deck, it might be easier to go Rega again for the cart upgrade.