Quick fun Q - In Japan - should I pick up a new cartridge while here?

[BrendanD]

Hi,
I have a Vertere DG-1 TT with its Mageneto cartridge (a slightly modified AT VM540) with an AT ML stylus.
I'm generally happy with it as I like its detailed sound, but it is a bit lacking in bass compared to my digital source.

Kit is Naim 222/250 NC, Atohm GT1 stand mounts and REL subwoofers.

I see the Japanese cartridges are about half the price in the UK making say an Nagoya MP500 £400.
Should I get something here as an upgrade?
What?
(heading away from electronics shops to rural Japan on Sunday).
Tx
B

 

[Snufkin]

Yes!

 

[Burdy]

Half price is a no brainer. Buy two! Always wanted to visit Japan. Now I have motivation

 

[Darren L]

Yes!

 

[Pure_Carbon]

Buy some Shelter M/Cs !!

 

[thomasp]

Buy the MP-500 (if thats what you fancy) and a replacement stylus as they have good price on it too. I go to Japan once every 3 yrs and I always p/u a cartridge there. Make sure you go to a store that offer duty free service and bring your passport.

 

[BrendanD]

Buy the MP-500 (if thats what you fancy) and a replacement stylus as they have good price on it too. I go to Japan once every 3 yrs and I always p/u a cartridge there. Make sure you go to a store that offer duty free service and bring your passport.

Yes, planning on Yodobashi.
Opinions on the MP500?

 

[BrendanD]

Buy some Shelter M/Cs !!

501 III would be under £600..... instead of £1450....

 

[Sue Pertwee-Tyr]

No brainer, innit!

 

[CTank]

Yes! I love the idea of buying a cartridge in Tokyo. A hifi dream of mine.

 

[myles]

I'm surprised a shopping list hasn't been started yet!

 

[Sue Pertwee-Tyr]

I gather Lyras are quite difficult to get hold of over here ATM, so one of theirs might be worth considering.

 

[thomasp]

Yodobashi will match price if you find cheaper price .. make sure you check other stores price like Bic camera .. have fun shopping. You can email them a few days ahead and reserve the item. My post pandemic trip last yr found some stores out of inventory and it take a day or 2 to order. BTW you can have them ship to your next stop and Japan have a VERY reliable shipping/courier system.

 

[per flemming]

Guess Japan must be Mecca for interesting cartridges.
I'd probably have my credicards and large backpack ready.

 

[paulfromcamden]

Exchange rate will be helping - JPY has been tanking for the past year+ so a good time to go shopping : )

If you're heading to Yodabashi in Shinjuku might be worth popping into Audio Union for interesting used bits and bobs.

Have fun in the countryside - I'm jealous. Was hoping to get back there this year but won't be happening now.

 

[lencotweaker]

The big Yodobashi in Shinjuku or Akhihabara for new carts. If you have time there are still a few great audio stores in Akhihabara too. Audio Union is worth a visit too for used gear. There are a few of these knocking around Tokyo. One is in Shinjuku. Finally seek out Disc Union in Shinjuku or Shibuya and buy some awesome records. I also hear tower records in Shibuya is great once again and stocking floors full of records.

 

[norliss]

I've never been to Japan but would love to go there, so colour me envious! I'd definitely pick up a cart or two at their prices.

 

[lencotweaker]

Oh remember to ask for export tax fee and have your passport with you at Yodobashi

 

[Eoin]

Anyone know some cart prices in Yen?

 

[stormyuklondon1]

I was in Yodobashi yesterday drooling over the at art1000.. that had the full phasemation range as well as shelter and zyx. Lots Of lovely audio trinkets..!