Request cartridge recommendation for JVC JL-F50

[Doge]

Hello all. Just joined the group after "lurking" for a couple of hours last night after finding the site. Lot's of very useful info and opinions here, and seems like a great community. I'm in the process of resuming use of my equipment after a number of years, and hope that the group can help.

What are some suggestions for a good replacement cartridge for the JVC JL-F50 turntable? The original cartridge is the ADC RK50E. I'm using it with a Pioneer SX980 receiver.

Also, what vinyl cleaning products would you recommend. My collection (unused for quite some time) will need to be given a thorough going-over. Would it be best to use different products for the "initial cleaning" vs "routine cleaning"?

Thanks very much for your help, and I look forward to participating in the discussions.

 

[Balifly]

Welcome to the AK turntable forum!

What is the intended budget for a replacement cartridge or new stylus for your present cartridge if a replacement is available?

The best thing for your LPs is a cleaner of some kind.
This one is not very expensive and quite effective.
http://store.acousticsounds.com/d/58982/Spin-Clean-Record_Washer_System-Record_Cleaning_Machine

 

[Doge]

Thanks for replying. I'd like to keep the price under $200.

 

[Balifly]

Denon DL-160 cartridge

The one that was recommended to me in that general range is the Denon DL-160.
However you would need to check and make sure that it is compatible with the tonearm on your turntable.
Howard would know, I am not familiar with your turntable.
http://www.lpgear.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=LG&Product_Code=DENONDL160&Cat

 

[Doge]

Thanks a lot for your input. I'll check out the cartridge and let you know.

 

[Bob_in_OKC]

$200 can get you some very nice options, like the Ortofon 2M Blue...

http://www.needledoctor.com/Ortofon-2M-Blue-Phono-Cartridge?sc=2&category=378

 

[Doge]

$200 can get you some very nice options, like the Ortofon 2M Blue...

http://www.needledoctor.com/Ortofon-2M-Blue-Phono-Cartridge?sc=2&category=378

Recommendation appreciated. I'll update the thread with any new info/questions/results.

Thanks again, to both you and Balifly for responding.

 

[Bob_in_OKC]

I thought you might get more recommendations, so I didn't want to throw in anything but my favorite at your budget. However, there are less expensive options that are quite good if you want them. For example, the AT95HE...

http://www.lpgear.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=LG&Product_Code=LPGAT95HE

 

[thedelihaus]

Denon DL-160, Audio Technica AT-440MLA, Grado Gold are three of my preferred budget high quality carts.

The Shure M97xe is a lower priced contender.

There are plenty of classic and great vintage carts that new quality stylii are available for, such as the Shure v15, ADC XLM, Ortofon Super OM, Stanton 681 and 881, various Signet, Naokoga and other classics.

As for cleaning, there are homebrew formulas that won't put an ache in your budget. Ultimately, owning a RCM is in my opinion, leaps above hand cleaning.

Careful use of a steamer works well, and they cost low cash outlay.

Welcome aboard!

 

[hakaplan]

Is this tonearm straight or curved?

 

[Doge]

Is this tonearm straight or curved?

The tonearm is curved.