New cartridge

Hi Martin

I have got one - compared to my previous "Klyde" it was a big improvement. Can be a little sharp at the top end, but as I like jazz trumpet, does not matter too much to me.

I did hear that the stylus is not particularly well glued to the cantilever, and a slight bump or knock can dislodge it, but I have had no problem with mine

It seems pretty good value at the price you mention

Al

The OC9 MLII works rather well in the old Sondek/Ittok.  It can initially come across as rather bright and tipped up, but it has a very long run-in period - anything less than 50 hours and you haven't heard anything like what the cart can really do.  The stylus/cantilever is state of the art and means the cart is very good at tracking - both in the literal sense and metaphorical, in short it times and grooves very well. It also can make marginal shallow pressings sound very good and can track inner grooves as good as any other cartridge at any price (in fact, possibly better than any other cartridge here).  However, it's not lush, or silky sweet, or romantic.  It is neutral veering towards a bit bright, so complements the Sondek particularly well.  Of course, put it in the wrong deck/arm, or don't give it the required 50 hours plus to run-in and it could come across as bass light, too bright and ultimately unbalanced, which may be why this cart, for all the raves, has perhaps just as many detractors too.

p.s. Oh, and before I forget, inflation of its old peers dictates that the OC9 should be selling for well over four figures these days. The fact that it has been continuously improved and you can still by it new for under £400 makes it a stone cold bargain.

Beware the apparent bargain Martin. Never buy a cartridge without listening to it. Synergy is the watchword with our strange addiction. A 'great' cartridge may well do what it says on the tin in one system, or room, and not in another.

Good luck.

John.

I don't like it, but I love Dynavectors...

Frank.

With Ittok, get a Linn Adikt.

I didn't care much for the OC9 but I have not heard their latest Mk. III.  I reckon the discounted ones from the US are the older Mk. II version?

I had a DV10x5. It came to an unfortunate end in a late night Rolling Stones related incident, when everyone was just gettin a little loose. Replaced it with a trade-in induced DV20x2L . Couldn't be happier with it. Stones tend to come out earlier in the evening now.

C.

The AT-OC9 has been a favorite in the Sondek/Ittok for over 30 years.  It's stood the test of time as a good match for those on a tight budget.  As stated above, though, buying a cartridge unheard is a bit of a crapshoot.  I'd probably pay a bit more and buy from a dealer that can demonstrate it.

OC9 is terrific on a LP12/TikTok.  It took a Troika to completely leave it in the dust. 

I had an OC9 iii fitted recently and cannot fault it. It's taught, fast, and very quiet in the groove.

Tonally pretty neutral. Maybe earlier iterations were less so? Maybe that made them more, er, characterful?  I couldn't say.