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Re: Grado Platinum vs. Goldring 1022GX ?? opinions

I haven't tried the Grado Platinum . . . yet, so I can't directly answer your question. But I have Grado Black, Red & Gold. I also have a Goldring 1022GX. And a Denon DL103.

A couple of years ago I ran them all head to head (as well as some other carts) giving each one a week or two in order to let the sound really sink in.

The turntable was a Rega P3 and the phono stages were a Rega Eos using either MC 100ohm and MM 47k/100pf as appropriate, with an Audio Note MM phono section as a benchmark for evalating the Rega Eos stage. I've given this info for your reference in interpreting my comments. As an aside, it would be useful if you had listed your system for me to get a feeling for the relevancy of my observations to your gear.

In brief, I preferred the Grado Gold to the Goldring 1022GX. It has often been stated by those familiar with Grado carts that the Platinum does everything the Gold does, but much better. So by conjecture, I think the Platinum is the way to go. My next cartridge purchase will likely be a Grado Platinum.

I also prefer the Denon 103 to the Goldring 1022GX. The 1022GX leans toward the tonal balance of the 103, but the 103 is superior in terms of smoothness, sweetness and whatever else it is doing that makes the music that much more enjoyable.

The Grado Gold and the Denon 103 are both fine cartridges, but sound very different. The Gold has a deeper, richer sound. I like both, just as I like coffee AND tea, and likewise I alternate between them. And like all carts they depend on the rest of the system to sound their best. I wouldn't recommend the Grado for a really dark sounding system, nor a DL-103 for a very bright sounding system. Also, VTA that is easily adjustable in small steps is essential IMO.

I've just built a SUT stage, implementing Lundahl LL9206's. The DL-103 is smoother through the SUT but with less bass than through the Rega Eos active stage. I also have a pair of Cinemag CMQEE-3440A's on hand, waiting to be put in a box; they may prove to be just the ticket. And perhaps someday, Audio Note SUT's.

Hope this helps.
Also, I appreciate any advice coming my way as well.

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