Absence of Cartridge Reviews

[DistortedVision]

I was wondering why cartridges never get reviewed in magazines. I've always found that cartridges to be the most difficult component to decide on. Dealers are understandably reluctant to allow you to demo them. There are such a wide variety available and also they require carefully setting up which is time consuming in a demo.

So I've come to rely heavily on reviews for cartridges but I've never seen one in WHF. Is there any particular reason for this? Having said that I've never seen tonearm reviews either.

Look forward to reading your views.

 

[Andrew Everard]

I seem to recall some conversations in the office the other week about setting up just such a test - I'll have to ask around next week when everyone's back...

 

[DistortedVision]

Cheers Andrew. Would really like to see group tests for cartridges.

 

[Andrew Everard]

I think there may be a round-up on the way, but group tests plural are rather unlikely I would think.

 

[ElectroMan]

Hmmm, I think there are other hi-fi mags out there that do review cartridges!

 

[chebby]

There are. Plenty.

EDIT - Please do not discuss moderation - Mods

 

[Andrew Everard]

Just checked, and yes there is a cartridge test underway for the March issue, out early Feb.

But sorry, don't have a list of runners and riders yet - will endeavour to update when I have a list.

 

[Terryff]

This says nothing new but reinforces Andrews answer

Clare Newsome:

Re: Worrying plethora of ipod type reviewsPhono
stages (Feb issue, out Jan 8th) is a four-way Group Test of £200-£350
models, if I remember rightly. Mix of old favourites and new models.

Still
calling in headphone amps and cartridges - both in March issue, out
first week in Feb. Without the contents list to hand, I can't tell you
more at this point!

Clare Newsome is Editor-in-Chief of What Hi-fi? Sound and Vision