Ortofon SPU WOOD? any users?

leyenda

Well-Known Member
Mar 2, 2011
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When I had the Schick 12" G-type, I tried SPU-AE with and without adaptor (if you read Stereophile Schick review, there is an alternative p-to-s distance that allows Schick 12" G-type to be used with SPU-As without having to use adaptor). Without the adaptor + new p-to-s distance, the alignment is spot on. Still, I preferred the sound with adaptor.
 

F456GTM

VIP/Donor
Oct 21, 2015
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Pinecrest, FL
Chaps,

I have a chance to buy a new Ortofon RMG-212i. The owner never used it, it is in the box and comes without a headshell. He believes that this arm is exclusively for the SPU-G [Ortofon G type cartridge]. Would it be possible to use another cartridge such as the Audio Technica AT33PTG?/II?

Cheers,

 

Tango

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Mar 12, 2017
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When I had the Schick 12" G-type, I tried SPU-AE with and without adaptor (if you read Stereophile Schick review, there is an alternative p-to-s distance that allows Schick 12" G-type to be used with SPU-As without having to use adaptor). Without the adaptor + new p-to-s distance, the alignment is spot on. Still, I preferred the sound with adaptor.
You have the Schick. May be you can lend me to try some day.
 

McDee275

Active Member
Nov 4, 2021
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In November 2021 I believed the race for better sound quality was over. Wow, what a big mistake.

Earlier this year, I changed my player and tonearm for good to give my Ortofon SPU Wood A a better match.

I could buy for a reasonable price a 2nd hand Lenco L75 together with the PTP6 update already included.
Tonearm is a GrooveMaster III 12" especially made to fit the Ortofon SPU A series.

20220508_114751 kl (3).jpg
 

Shuggie

Well-Known Member
Sep 9, 2020
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ammonite-audio.co.uk
The SPU Wood A is my favorite cartridge. It's easy to criticize in terms of so-so detail retrieval and tracking performance, but for tonal color and sheer musical expression it's sublime - one of the ultimate 'anti-HiFi' products that really does major on the music, rather than just 'sounds'. The GrooveMaster is an excellent partner.
 
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miniguy

Well-Known Member
Dec 18, 2013
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San Diego area
The SPU Wood A is my favorite cartridge. It's easy to criticize in terms of so-so detail retrieval and tracking performance, but for tonal color and sheer musical expression it's sublime - one of the ultimate 'anti-HiFi' products that really does major on the music, rather than just 'sounds'. The GrooveMaster is an excellent partner.
Too bad it’s been discontinued.
 

McDee275

Active Member
Nov 4, 2021
43
144
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Germany
Yes, pity. :(

But OK, as long as they replace stylus and generator in Denmark I am fine with it.

I used before the SPU #1-E with nearly identical technical datas but why the wood sound so much better?
 

Shuggie

Well-Known Member
Sep 9, 2020
103
127
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UK
ammonite-audio.co.uk
The difference is almost certainly down to a combination of materials - the lacquered beech wood shell is very sturdy compared to a 'G' shell, the coil wiring is different, the damper specification is certainly different, and I would not be surprised if the magnet is some old-fashioned alnico affair. Given that the Wood A was possibly aimed largely at the Japanese market, I also wonder if it was inspired by Shindo SPUs (which I've never heard).

Anyway, the Wood A is certainly flawed and most audiophiles hearing one straight after a modern MC cartridge would probably sniff and turn away, but for those willing to listen, it plays music like nothing else.
 
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