How GOOD is the Goldring Ethos?

[@JerryM-p2v]

I recently installed the new Ethos SE, and wow what an amazing cart. Very crisp clean and articulate. Warm romantic sound as well.

[@latheofheaven]

Yep... Something about the Line Contact. Believe it or not, I've had a Vintage Flagship Vector Aligned Linear Contact Audio Technica DR500LC (if you want the whole name) for about 30 years. It was actually considered one of the best at the time. And that li'l baby has dynamics and detail out the Ying-Yang! I figured with the costs, in replacement I would likely have to go with a Microline (The Hana is one, right?) but this one sure sounds very nice! Oh, BTW, bloody *EXCELLENT* choices on the albums mate! (well, we'll let the female vocal slide for now 😁) I have not the UHQR, but I do have the MFSL 2-45 pressing of Kind Of Blue which is pretty stellar. And, I don't have the 1-Step of the SRV, but again, I do have the 2-45 AP pressing which is pretty damn breathtaking! And yeah... Kings X frigg'n *ROX!!!* .👍

[@thevinylattack]

You can always have that re-tipped by a pro for a much lower cost than a total replacement.

[@Pogue4]

I just wish I could afford one of these beauties. For now I'll save for a Nagaoka 110

[@thevinylattack]

The Nagaoaka is a damn fine cart for the money. I still have one around the house myself.

[@davidbalentine2110]

Chris, you have touched on a couple of important things. First, at this price point, one is wisely advised to consider their listening style/preferences. Some honesty and homework invested before spending that money. Second, the cartridge contributes a significant amount to the overall quality of an analog (vinyl) system. There is no right and wrong here. And... you included that, at this level, it is no longer a ‘plug and play’ proposition; the cartridge needs proper alignment to realize its potential. Yes! The passion is at hand. Thank you 🙏. Peace ☮️.

[@thevinylattack]

Hey David, I'm glad you were able to see where I was coming from here.

[@stanbrown915]

New to your channel and prepping for a return to vinyl after 35 years. I plan on purchasing the RT85N. I want to tell you that after just a few videos you have really given me some great advice, the last video was about the stylus cleaner...WOW..dodged a bullet there. Preciate it

[@thevinylattack]

Welcome aboard!

[@Clint_the_Audio-Photo_Guy]

I love SRV's tone. One a side note, I use a Goldring Eroica LX low output moving coil in my TT. It's sounds plenty good.

[@thevinylattack]

I believe it.

[@TomReinerDE]

Your neighbours always listen to the best music. They have no other choice… 😉

[@thevinylattack]

You're quiet right.

[@FrightfulMess]

I have to stop watching reviews of products I will never, ever be able, or want to, afford. Makes me feel like the "investment" I made in the RT84 so I could get the 2M Blue cartridge was the sonic equivalent of settling for a Fischer Price toddler record player.........

[@thevinylattack]

Far from it. The 84 is a damn fine player and you should be happy with it for years to come.

[@jasonsmith9845]

The Ortofon 2M Blue is what I have too, and I have been so happy with it, though I still have some FOMO thinking about other cartridges.

[@kibonohiro8588]

Hi I bought the Ethos it sounds pretty decent out of the box and open more by hours of playing. The separation depth width is excellent but it does not seems 0.5 mc output as state I would say 0.25 mv compare the loudness from the same volume as when using oc9sxh 0.35 mv the different is 6 decibel lower than AT oc9. Is this right?

[@thevinylattack]

I didn't measure the cart myself as I went with the manufacturers' specs. It's possible that the output is lower than listed, but I would be surprised if it's half.

[@kibonohiro8588]

@@thevinylattack i was surprised too. It does not seems 0.5 mv compare to my other cartridges. The dealer told me it’s also related to the length of the cable 0.5 mv then reduced by 1 kHz, 5 cm/s I have no idea if this is the case.

[@gsherlock]

Goldring's are great cartridges and I don't think they get the exposure they deserve, thanks for a great review.

[@thevinylattack]

I tend to agree. Thanks for watching.

[@user-sm3ru1fm6g]

Spot on re: ethos. It certainly pay very well with Blue Note, presence, detail,/ texture, spatial, speed etc. Definitely very happy with it, especially given its price! Agreed, you do need to get VTA right to sound its best. As for design, I think it is actually handy to be narrow as replacing cover is easy.

[@JohnSmith-of4vh]

Narrow bodied cartridges are more versatile as they easily fit known ' tight' fitting headshells, for example Linn Ekos & SME V tonearms.

[@octothorpe12]

"whether you like the band, or you're wrong…" CORRECT!

[@S.A.S.H.]

Especially appreciate your cartridge reviews. I get the feeling you listen for the same sort of critical listening telltales that I do. And YES to Kings-X. I've recently found that the best cartridges show their worth more on standard and older pressing, than on higher end audiophile pressings.

[@VinylRescue]

It and the Hana are both way out of my meager budget, but I've heard the Hana played on a few other channels and it does sound great. Lately I've found it worthwhile to take an old cart and bring it back to life with a new stylus. I did this to an old Pickering XV-15/625 and it rocks! I'm currently working on a Stanton L720. I'll take your word that the Ethos sound great, but at $1500 I'll have to pass.

[@thevinylattack]

Fair enough. I have something down the line that might be a bit more up your alley. I aim to tackle a wide price range when possible.

[@SherlockChromesSFY]

Great comparison! I always appreciate your detailed opinions. I also applaud you for having a transcript available 😎🙌🏼

[@thevinylattack]

I have a transcript?

[@SherlockChromesSFY]

@@thevinylattack yes sir, on the app, if you click the down arrow near the video title, you’ll see “show transcript” down at the bottom. I guess this is an auto generated feature since you don’t know about it. 🤷‍♂️. If it’s auto generated, then it may have some errors which you should be able to edit manually. A correct word for word transcript is great to have for accessibility reasons.

[@thevinylattack]

@@SherlockChromesSFY While I don't have the time to make sure the transcripts are accurate, I am glad to hear you're getting good use of them. Thanks for letting me know they exist.

[@SherlockChromesSFY]

@@thevinylattack absolutely- appreciate all you do 😎🙌🏼

[@tullskull]

King's X? King's X? Wow you just earned my respect, (actually you already had it, big time). One of my all time favorites. In fact if you could listen to the song; "What I Know About Love" and tell me if you have Ever, and I mean ever heard a nastier, tastier, completely mind blowing tone in your life? To me it is the greatest guitar tone ever recorded and the amp is solid state! I have heard that guys have rushed the stage at shows, not to hug the band but to get a look at Ty's rig! Have you spent any time with the EL? If you remember that Japanese analog reviewer who would go to record stores and huge hi-end department stores in Japan and take you along for the ride, he put the Nag 110 over the EL which was quite surprising. Another great video Chris!

[@thevinylattack]

I haven't spent any time with the EL. Perhaps down the line. I am trying to expand cartridge reviews.

[@nanduullegaddi2992]

Hi Chris, love your channel, what is your system? Will you be doing a review of your set up one day. I have also purchased the Hana, great cartridge still running in, been only 25hrs so far. Turntable is Acoustic Signature Hurricane Neo, with additional AS TA2000 Neo 24k tonearm. Look forward to your response and more great reviews

[@thevinylattack]

My setup changes regularly with the products I review. I listed the items used for review in this video though so I hope that helps.

[@jakemurphy9536]

Very new to your chanel. Thus far, am enjoying it immensely. A while ago, I took the decision to use MM only. However, a fan of Golding MM, and after watching this vid, I am seriously thinking of trying the Ethos.

[@thevinylattack]

Moving coil will change your life.

[@deadpoolsiona]

Hot Damn...a King's X mention. I did like your review, but the King's X mention will stay with me.

[@thevinylattack]

They're so underrated.

[@fredricmusselman5875]

Chris, Great review. As I have never listened to Kings X, which album would you recommend I start with? It sounds like something I would really enjoy.

[@thevinylattack]

That's a tough call, but I'd say go get Tape Head. The first song Groove Machine really gives you a great look into what the band does.

[@jasonturg2053]

Another great video, what turntable did you pair with the Hana ML? I’m running a Hana SL on a vpi cliff wood, I’m thinking of upgrade how do you think either one of those cartridges would pair with my turntable Thanks

[@thevinylattack]

I have a Clearaudio Concept with the satisfy black tonearm. I can't imagine either cart being an issue with the VPI.

[@manuelp6785]

I owned a Goldring MM in the past and was very good within its league. I now have a few AT, Lyra and others. My last purchase was the Hana ML and let me tell you that I am settled. The Hana is just at another level of quality if you stick with 1000 euro bracket. The best cartridge I ever had and interestingly not the most expensive. If this Goldring is on par, it must be good. Excellent review, thanks !

[@thevinylattack]

I think they are definitely both comparable.

[@ron6706]

You may wish to add a copy Sarah McLachlan's Surfacing to your demo LP list.

[@thevinylattack]

That's a fine suggestion, I'll see about picking one up.

[@philbert9117]

I've been really digging your channel. Extra points for the GL hoodie! Also I'd love to hear your review of your Buchardt S400 MkII's. I've been thinking about getting a pair later this year or next year to try them out.

[@thevinylattack]

That review is on the way...

[@stevenannett1739]

Ok Love your posts , I have a question for you ,,After looking at a ton of record players in my price range at this time I bought a Fluance 81 ,,just really fit my needs and budget, I also bought a Red Ortofon cartridge ,, I haven't installed it yet ! My question is should I ? I'm really loving what I'm getting with the one that came with it , would the sound I'm getting with it now be better with the Ortofon ? And if I do would it matter about the headshell , Which I would buy to be able to have both at the ready so to say

[@thevinylattack]

I'm not really a fan of the Red or the Blue so you'll have to take that into consideration. If you're already happy, maybe spending more money right now isn't what you need.

[@charlesludwig9173]

Seems the this vs that here is misplaced. That’s to say, perhaps this cart should be compared and contrasted of same music delivered via Apple Music.

[@thevinylattack]

If you can find a way for a turntable cartridge to play something from Apple music, I'd be interested in seeing that.

[@dubidad]

Insightful video Chris! I have been using the Hana for just over a year and I absolutely love it. The alignment was quite demanding as well, in my experience, but boy was it worth it!!! You seem to enjoy yours as well. Good to see that you share the same experience

[@thevinylattack]

I do indeed like mine very much.

[@epg2501]

Have you compared the Dynavector 20x2L to either?

[@thevinylattack]

I haven't had the opportunity, but I'd sure like to.

[@Bondrkmz]

Love Kings’x. One of the most underrated bands in history.

[@thevinylattack]

I'd have to agree.

[@Sthunderrocker]

"Whether you like the band or you're wrong..." Lol

[@thevinylattack]

;-)

[@BellTunnel]

Goldring Ethos vs Clearaudio Maestro V2 Ebony, anyone? MC vs MM. Both ~$1,500.

[@thevinylattack]

I'd certainly be happy to take a look if I can get Clearaudio to send a sample.

[@BellTunnel]

@@thevinylattack would love to hear your thoughts.

[@jerrysnead2842]

Great video review also like how clear you speak

[@thevinylattack]

Thanks, Jerry. It's a work in progress as I have a natural tendency to speak quite fast.

[@christian2123]

Nice review. KingsX? Juliana Hatfield?! Holy freaking cow!! I love the music choices here!!! Great to see some serious level cart reviews, very cool stuff. Thanks.

[@thevinylattack]

I try to mix it up so I'm not playing the same thing all the time.

[@christian2123]

@@thevinylattack Gotta keep it fresh...any Liz Phair on wax?

[@thevinylattack]

@@christian2123 Not so much.

[@gianluigimazzorana8922]

Hi! Thanks for the video! I have a Hana SL on a Jelco 750d and a Linn LP12 which makes me very happy. I listen to almost everything. Now i want to take a step further but no chance to listen before buyin'. What would you change the Hana for? Thanks!

[@thevinylattack]

I wouldn't change it for anything at the moment.

[@gianluigimazzorana8922]

@@thevinylattack Thanks a lot!

[@gianluigimazzorana8922]

Hi again! In the end i took an Ethos and i think, after only few hours running, that this cartridge is fantastic. Even my oldest and most dirty records sounds so alive i've never experienced! Thanks a lot for tip!

[@thevinylattack]

​@@gianluigimazzorana8922 I'm glad to hear it's working so well for you.

[@drummingprince3]

Dig the king's x mention

[@thevinylattack]

They're well worth it.

[@louiesipes2257]

Great review Chris. I’ve got three carts, a Grado gold, an ATvm95ml and the 2m red that came with my Technics. The red was replaced fairly quickly my the AT. I’ve had the gold for years. I’ve had my eye on Sound Smith for a while. Ever checked out his website and KZbin videos? I’d love to see you review the Carmen or Xephyr. Keep up the good work👍

[@davidbalentine2110]

The ‘moving iron’ design employed by SoundSmith is a winner. Good choice.

[@thevinylattack]

Soundsmith has long been on my list and very well be my next cart when I'm finally ready. Peter is a savant with those things.

[@louiesipes2257]

@@thevinylattack He is what I picture when someone says renaissance man. He’s a genius.

[@hoobsgroove]

you could look at the Goldring 2400 and 2500 they are moving iron as well and a lot cheaper.

[@hoobsgroove]

need some break-in how much time did you give it it will get better

[@thevinylattack]

I had it for over a month.

[@hoobsgroove]

@@thevinylattack that's not enough you what about 80+ hours

[@thevinylattack]

@@hoobsgroove I had more than enough time.

[@allisonsailsandcanvas]

Great review!

[@thevinylattack]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@Vidar.m]

Try the nagaoka mp 200

[@thevinylattack]

I've tried it actually. I'm a big fan of the Nagaoka lineup.

[@Vidar.m]

@@thevinylattack Getting one asap 😁

[@thevinylattack]

@@Vidar.m You won't be disappointed.

[@yambo59]

I surely do appreciate the finer things in audio I really do, like quality phono cartridges and Im a huge SRV fan - but the day someone cons me into spending $1,500.00 dollars on a single phono cartridge is the day I check into a rubber room. I dont doubt this cartridge is really sweet, but theres a thing called the point of diminishing returns and at the end of the day its still a needle in a groove and that groove can only give up so much fidelity. Above a certain point you gain less and less benefit for the exceedingly higher and higher dollars spent, but the boutique audio industry is very adept at making some of us think its a smart investment to spend double most peoples mortgage payment just to play 100 year old technology thats been inherently flawed since day one with very little left to be had in the way of seriously meaningful improvements. Now if they ever start making laser reading turntables that take the place of a needle in a groove that might be a reason to get excited but until then theres plenty of $80 to $200 cartridges that will more than do the job of reading music by dragging itself through a groove that looks like a plowed cornfield.

[@thevinylattack]

I can say that there's nothing diminishing about this cartridge. There's also a system out there that uses a laser to read a record. It costs 13 grand.

[@jerrysnead2842]

@@thevinylattack The laser turntable was never really a hit but the new DS Audio optical cartridge system is a game changer

[@thevinylattack]

@@jerrysnead2842 I don't see it changing much with its cost. As a matter of fact, I've never actually even seen one in person because of it. I sure would be interested though.

[@jerrysnead2842]

@@thevinylattack I have the DS 003 system and it is better than the cartridges I have had Ortofon A95, Lyra Delos, AT ART9XI plating through a Modwright PH9.0X phono pre

[@thevinylattack]

@@jerrysnead2842 I'm on my way...

[@popsandclicks]

Great review of the Goldring Ethos, haven't heard it live yet, hopfully some store will have it set up. Cheers for this!

[@thevinylattack]

It's definitely worth a listen.

[@hoobsgroove]

don't worry just get it nothing comes close depends on preamp matching more than anything else

[@popsandclicks]

@@hoobsgroove cheers!

[@popsandclicks]

@@thevinylattack cheers!

[@izumispa2993]

Awesome channel. well considered evaluations. Impressive, even to me as a retired design engineer.

[@thevinylattack]

Thank you very much!