[CJG888]

I’ve finally finished my “Dual 1019 Special” cartridge:

The old Shure M44MG generator was “liberated” from its plastic body (in fact it had to be cut away in pieces, and some revolting brown glue had to be cut and sanded away). This was then placed in a Stanley Engineering cocobolo body. As there were gaps below and in front of the generator, I decided to pot the whole thing with cyanoacrylate. Unfortunately, it oozed out through the gaps, and I had to scrape the excess off the body with a scalpel (followed by thorough polishing with Nevr-Dull and a cotton cloth). After curing, on went the Jico N44E stylus.

The sound is remarkable: punchy and dynamic with a liquid midrange. Think poor man’s SPU… Also, due to the extremely tall body, the VTA is finally correct!!!

Tracking force is currently 2.8g (same as my Denon 103).

 

[FYFL]

It’s a beauty.

 

[CJG888]

It’s a beauty.

Thanks.

 

[FYFL]

I don’t think my hands are steady enough for surgical precision work like that.

 

[CJG888]

Here’s a 103 I prepared earlier…

 

[]eep]

Great bod bud

That's the big downside of CA glue, it's so liquid that it goes everywhere. I don't really like to work with it. But you cleaned it up well. And it looks great. As long as it works on this arm, the extra height doesn't really matter even if it looks rather tall.
And if it sounds good, looks nice, it's all good.

 

[FYFL]

Here’s a 103 I prepared earlier…

Cool. Is it true that 103R might need a 2mm spacer on 3009 headshell?

 

[CJG888]

The 103 is much lower than other cartridges (in its stock body). As my 3009 is the S2 Improved, I haven’t tried the 103 in it, as its effective mass is too low. I can imagine that a spacer (such as those made by Stanley) or a cap would help.

 

[FYFL]

Thanks. One more thing. Is the wiring in your SME stock or did you replace it? My is OG but the original cables and connection plug/harness is a little concerning to me. Seems like it might be a good time to either replace entire wiring or at very least convert that propriety connection to standard RCA type of connection. Any thoughts? I am not sure if SME still does rewriting work on old SME tonearm? If not, I hope I can find someone reliable in US or Canada.

 

[CJG888]

I had mine rewired by Audio Origami in the UK. They did an excellent job.

 

[FYFL]

I had mine rewired by Audio Origami in the UK. They did an excellent job.

I’ve heard of them. UK might be the only option. I don’t even know if there’s anyone qualified for this job in US.

 

[FYFL]

If someone needs a second opinion after watching Michael’s 45RPM video and his very favorable review of RHCP ‘Return of The Dream Canteen’ well, he wasn’t lying.
For what I would consider a ‘new age of vinyl’ recording, this is definitely a stand out.
Not sure if my limited version is exactly the same as his but it probably doesn’t matter. My version is on black vinyl gatefold and it comes with sizable poster. Like I have said, my local store had this for me two weeks before official release hance a little hasitation to review it. Not trying to get anyone in some sort of trouble.
Without any more rambling let’s score this record ….
Sound - 4.75
Dynamics - 4.75
Soundstage - 4.75
Imaging - 4.5 almost 4.75
Bass - 5
Slam - 5
Top end - 4.5
Clarity of vocal - 4.5
Packaging - 4.75 (paper sleeves)
Pressing - 4.75
Noise - 4.75
Overall - 4.75+
Highly recommended!

 

[FYFL]

Description of this two day recording session/battle.

I would describe this record simply as an adrenaline rush. Hearing those two masters going at each other (think 8 mile M&M battles) is exhilarating and musically satisfying.
Sound is surprisingly good.
I wanna be a little careful scoring this record bc for me it’s easily a 4.5. As far as music goes, it’s a solid 5. But I get it if it’s not for everyone. Therefor keep in mind my music preference biases.
Pressing - 4.5
Noise - 4.25
Packaging - 4

Soundstage - 4.25
Imaging - 4.5
Slam - 4.75 (need to crank it up)
Bass - 4.75
Top end - 4.75
Love it but you might not be the fan.
For Jazz lovers/drummers it’s a must. Easy recommendation.

 

[bagwell359]

I’ve certainly heard about it but I agree that Trichord Dino never really got a lot of traction and recognition. At least on this side of the pond. What’s it now… third gen of this product? Upgrade path is nice for anyone working with limited budget. Giving an option to upgrade to whichever level they feel comfortable financially.
I do like my soundstage to have more “confidence” and “discipline” as well. Just not sure what that means? Lol
With that being said, I do watch his reviews occasionally but I have to admit that I haven’t seen any in quite a while.

I had the original Dino as a backup for my Pass Ono.. Good sound for cheap money.

 

[FYFL]

Next :

Not going to review it since it was covered already. I like it!