I do say it as it is . . . get a few hackles up me thinks because of it . . . its just my personal view. Yes Chebby, I did fit the Black body, I was getting real twitchy. As I think I said my suspicions were that the wire was silvered, and yes I did know before I listened, but I have an open mind. I dont like silvered/copper speaker wire or interconnects, but I had no idea how the sliver would affect a cartridge coil?
As you say I did try the Black stylus in the Blue body, and as I reported I liked the subtlety of the extra information . . . its an area I will try again maybe, but not this side of Christmas, I need to get my head together, settle down . . . relax.
I'm thinking, we both like the Blue but we are aware of the rough edges it can exhibit on occasions. So the search will resume in the new year. I've set a budget of £350, I know the Black is more new. I think in truth, I was aiming to high in relation to the system anyway; Rega P5 modified, 700 arm, Croft CI-P integrated, PMC LB1.
I've always said I like the warmer, even fuller sound? its time I looked in that direction. So, Grado Platinum, Benz Micro Silver/Gold, Dyno 10x5 and the suggested Clair Audio Classic Wood is a new one to the list. Pushing the financial boat a Denon 304 is one I am very drawn to? I base my 'warm/full' likes on the cherished Ortofon fully denuded SPU Gold, that I used for a long time in the 80's. If I had the Rock TT I had then, there would be no hesitation.
Time to relax and ponder, all is calm now, lots of music to enjoy over Christmas . . . CJSF