I recently purchased this cartridge with headshell as a backup for my Audio Technica cartridge that came with my AT 120XUSB turntable. I thought it much better to include the headshell to avoid the obvious problems associated with installing a cartridge. My expectations were not high, and I bought it relying on the advice of one of zZounds tech advisers. I noted it appears to be a DJ cartridge, but he said it would sound fine with my set up. Upon arrival, I was impressed with Ortofon’s care in packaging. It was well protected and within a nice, if thin plastic case. And, It was easy to plug into the S shaped armOf my AT turntable. But the most important characteristic was to come; sound. I started with “Who’s Next” by The Who, Side 2. The songs are pretty varied for Rock; there are a few low key melodies, an acoustic guitar masterpiece, and a hard rocking final. I felt it a good test. I can say without doubt from the first notes the cartridge performed well, much better than expected. Since I had a very good elliptical AT cartridge, (an nmv95e) for comparison, I can actually say the Ortofon held its own. Indeed, the lower frequency was as pronounced as the AT and perhaps a bit better. The midrange was a little wanting but not much and barely noticeable. The highs were good, and accurate, but seemed they were a wanting. Not as bright as I like. Yet that’s more of a personable observation. The setup did fine with all vinyls. I have no complaints with the sound. However,… read more I have slight misgivings with the suggested tracking force if 4 grams. That is twice as much as the AT cartridge, more than almost any hifi cartridge of which I am aware. So, one needs to be aware of that issue. All considered this is a fine sounding cartridge and concerning the price a great buy. I have no problem recommending this to anyone for a backup or for a newbie starter cartridge.

Musical Background:
I’m not s musician, but a hifi stereo owner.

Musical Style:
Primarily Rock, but I enjoy other genre such as Jazz, Classical, and folk. read less