The Goldring E3 Phono Cartridge Review

[@davidmascall7694]

Really enjoyed this,especially as I work for Goldring,I may be brassed but we do make great cartridges,I'm going to forward your review to my bosses. Love your reviews 👍☺

[@thevinylattack]

I'm happy to hear it and I appreciate you watching.

[@defendermodsandtravels]

Brassed or biased?

[@curtiscoleman8446]

Great review. I've had this cartridge for several days now and thought I would share my impressions. I have a Rega P1 deck with a Moth OEM 220 tonearm. I used an arc protractor to set it up, using Baerwald alignment, but with the DIN standard for inner groove. That gives me an inner null point of ~63mm which is a good compromise for me since I have some classical records that go to that 57.5 inner groove. headshell level with record surface. Tracking weight 2 g as recommended. Cartridge resonance came in at ~9Hz-ideal. It's running through an ifi Zen phono stage. The first hour or so of use, I thought it was a little lean in the mid to upper bass. After several hours of play time, that has filled in nicely and it seems very well balanced. It also tracks very well. It passed all FOUR tracks on the HiFi News test album (virtually all of the carts I have used make it through the first three, but I can't remember the last time one made it through the fourth). It also is very quiet. I hear surface noise (on clean records) when sitting at my normal listening spot 8-9 feet from the speakers, and clicks and pops are VERY subdued. It has very good detail. I have a recording of Tchaikovsky's Capriccio Italien that has triangle strikes during parts of the performance. With most of my cartridges, I either could not hear them or struggled to hear them as there is a lot going on while they are struck. They are clearly there when the E3 is playing (the AT VM95ML also gave me triangles, but I really thought it too "sterile"). Yet it is a very smooth presentation as well. Bass is good and seems to be getting better as the suspension breaks in. On Brubeck's Take Five everything sounded wonderful-piano comping, drums and cymbals, and Paul Desmond's sax. Basically, it provides a very even presentation throughout the frequency range and is detailed without being fatiguing. Massed violins may be the only shorthcoming. They are probably not handled as well as very expensive cartridges do on very expensive turntables, but for the money the E3 does an excellent job. I rate it higher than the AT VM95 series and I have tried the EN, ML and SH styli (I liked the EN best). Goldring has a winner with this one.

[@ianyates7742]

I have been using the E3 for about a year now and I find it to be a very rewarding experience he’s hit the nail on the head with the review it’s well worth the money and gives plenty of bang for the money my system is a mid range setup of a few thousand pounds so it sounds good on whatever system you decided to use it on I personally think it’s a great deal try one 👍

[@thevinylattack]

Glad to hear you like it.

[@R.Lennartz]

This comment has the same vibe as Trump's "Small loan of a million dollars."

[@scottbaylor6215]

For phone cartridges, love to hear more about the Audio Technica lineup. I have the green opening price point stylus and am thinking about going up to their red. Love to learn more about it and if it is worth the extra money. Thanks.

[@thevinylattack]

Right now I'm only able to work with products that are being sent for review. I definitely want to purchase some items for review (as not every manufacturer sends review samples) but I have a larger list than budget in that regard so I have to plan accordingly. I'll certainly keep it in mind.

[@spencehayashi2772]

An excellent review of the E3. I agree the stereo separation and soundstage are exceptional but i do need to bump the gain in my phono preamp to get the desired performance. At the price point it is a great deal. The bulk of the cartridge itself surprised a little but the cartridge is a keeper. Really enjoy the content you bring to your channel.

[@thevinylattack]

Thanks for watching.

[@joetheman74]

One thing most cartridge reviews often miss out is INNER GROOVE DISTORTION. When I was shopping for a cart a couple years ago I bought a couple different ones that were so raved about by many reviewers for their supposed AMAZING tracking only to be met by inner groove distortion on certain problem records. Both these carts were between $150.00 and $250.00. Then after doing research in forums specifically on inner groove distortion I learned about the AT 440 ML variants. Picked up an MLa after it was replaced by newer models on the cheap (under $200 regular over $250) and the micro line stylus was exactly what I needed. It tracks even the toughest passages and inner grooves amazingly well. It is quieter then my other carts and not as full in the bottom end but the bass is rich down to the lowest frequencies. Just needs to be lifted so I use something you audiophile guys probably consider from the pits of hell and spawned by the devil himself. AN EQ. I guess the point to my comment is, How well do these carts track records with typical problem inner groove distortion? You must have some. My best example I can give is my 2 original pressings of Scorpions - Love at first Sting. Still Loving You distorts more and more as you get to the end of course. My U.S. original is worse than my European original as the grooves run much closer to the label on the US pressing. Both of these are in AMAZING condition and I also have a junk copy of this album. It's just one of those problem records for IGD. A better cart minimizes the presence of this distortion. I wish reviewers would pick a few of their problem records to compare IGD performance.

[@thevinylattack]

I didn't have any glaring issues with inner groove distortion, otherwise I would have said so.

[@davidbalentine2110]

Allow me to express my belief that the cartridge is one of the most important components of analog playback. You thoughtfully included the fact that some records are better sounding than others. Source is very important. Thanks and happy listening ☮️.

[@thevinylattack]

I'd agree 100%. Thanks for watching.

[@glenncurry3041]

It's good to hear the Goldring name come up. Naturally in such a positive light. I still have a Goldring 900SE body that I got as a sales sample as a Rep back in the '70's and just found the JH Formula 4 arm sample it was paired with. An incredible combination I would love to get operational again.

[@thevinylattack]

That is indeed going back...

[@glenncurry3041]

@@thevinylattack As your review helped me do. Some things have totally changed, yet some stay the same.

[@MichelLinschoten]

This channel is quickly for me becoming a gold mine of information. The presentation is incredible too, just pure gold information. Gold mine this channel

[@thevinylattack]

Much appreciated!

[@MichelLinschoten]

@@thevinylattack No my friend appreciate you , not new to audio and its never ending conundrums and the emotional bias that more often than not creates controversy. You have a incredible way of relaying information, without involving bias . You seem to be straight to the point, direct and above all honest. So imho , we should be the one thanking you. I hope you keep on growing, you deserve lot more subscribers. And for sure , you're one of the very few "to goto channels" I always recommend to my fellow audio enthusiast.

[@thevinylattack]

@@MichelLinschoten That's very kind. I appreciate it.

[@monochromios]

Great review. Pure coincidence, I've mounted today my first MC cartridge on my Rega P3, a classic Denon DL 103. I'm new to MC and it sounds like I'm discovering again my music.

[@thevinylattack]

That Denon is a classic for a reason. Nice one.

[@kyron42]

I'm a bit of a fan of high output moving-coil cartridges. Why did you choose that one?

[@pointsbeingmade7996]

Great choice.

[@pitfisch1]

Love the 103s too. But they don´t last as long as carts with sharper points. Expect ~800 hours playtime.

[@pointsbeingmade7996]

@@kyron42 You hsve a point there are better ones at that price point. Wich one do you use?

[@1x3dil]

Thank you for your in-depth assessment , gold ring was part of my first introduction to hifi as in the 95 cartridge on my gold ring lenco 75 deck . Safe to say things have moved forward since the early 1970s , which is why vinyl can still be regarded as a contender in the world of reproduction of sound . Best wishes and kind regards 😀👍👍👍

[@thevinylattack]

Things have definitely moved forward, but I think in a very good way for the most part. Thanks much for the kind words.

[@earlyeo8298]

My Goldring E3 , On a THORENS TD 166 MK II , re-wired with the " 1877PHONO 5-Litz-7+ Direct Wire rewiring kit ", which removes all arm connectors from the signal path , the sound is GREAT . My Old SIMA preamp , loves the load present , and gives me a clear , well defined sound stage with a delicate but present presentation of all the Cymbals that are recorded on the 160G “King Crimson” " In the Court of the Crimson King " album … a Nice change from my old Basic GRADO cartridge I had bought many years ago ..

[@briang530]

Awesome review! Not quite the first thing I noticed, but very soon after upgrading from a Carbon to an E3 was that some of my Vinyl isn't particularly great.

[@thevinylattack]

That's the unfortunate trade off as your system improves with vinyl.

[@briang530]

@@thevinylattack The brilliant re-releases of Kraftwerk's Radioactivity and Trans Europe Express, as well as Pink Floyd's Wish you were here, and Mark Knopfler's Privateering (and others) all sound atleast twice as good as the carbon though. This makes it very hard to complain about some of the poorly pressed or "well loved" inherited albums. Going purely off of memory, and being a somewhat recent returnee to vinyl, I'd say the E3 is also a significant step up from the Grado Blue 2 and a bit better than the Ortofon 2M Blue that my father used to run/runs on his Revolver. (The Ortfon comparison is completely unfair as all the rest of my equipment is different than his; the Grado comparison is slightly unfair as I inherited it after about 10 years of periodic use.)

[@thevinylattack]

@@briang530 I've not sued the Grado, but I enjoyed the E3 more than the Blue myself. While Ortofon makes a fine product, they're just not my taste in sound.

[@jfh4270]

Learned a lot, as always. Fantastic video, great music

[@thevinylattack]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@stevet7487]

I'm not Canadian but firing away. It's simple - P👂t. So many reasons to get it right after 40 years. 1. Respect for an amazing musician you've enjoyed for 40 years. 2. Respect for those who have passed. 3. Aren't we here to learn and grow? A name can't be too much to adjust to, or is that why you are still into an old technology? 4. Just being stubborn doesn't make it right or ok. 5. You would want others to pronounce your name correctly, right? 6. You want us to trust your opinions and that they aren't based on old biases. How was that? Normally, I just post the ear, but your declaration of stubbornness required a bit more. Cheers.

[@thevinylattack]

His name will always be to me how I've heard it all my life. I'm not really concerned if it bothers anyone else.

[@markpbowen]

This awesome review has lead me to your channel. Thank you for a great review on a unit I am considering. Just getting back into vinyl and got a cheap second hand at-lp3. I know for sure I will upgrade at some point. How I have missed records. I am in the Uk and the normal price for the E3 is £99 but it is on offer for £77 around $100. Comparing this to the MP110 which I can only get for £115 it’s normally £130-140. I now have a dilemma, from most reviews I think I would prefer the MP110 but now after your review you are changing my mind and the price difference also helps. So glad I dropped on the channel, I look forward to watching more of your work. Thanks No doubt over time I will buy both carts😂But for now I think I will try the E3. Have a great day.

[@thevinylattack]

I don't think you'd go wrong with either one.

[@ajmoore2201]

Did you get your hands on the E3, if so what's your thoughts?

[@markpbowen]

@@ajmoore2201 hi, I went with the MP110 and it is really good. Would still love an E3.

[@ajmoore2201]

@@markpbowen Awesome choice too! If you are planning on trying out an E3 at some point I'd highly recommend it. I've got the E3 on my Rega Planar 3(2016 model) and it's a fantastic cart! As mentioned above you really can't go wrong with any of those 2 carts

[@vinylbugg3513]

Thanks for the very detailed review, you are probably one of the best at this. Question though, which would you choose for everyday listening, the Goldring E3, Nagaoka MP110 or Ortofon Blue?

[@thevinylattack]

I really like the Nagaoka, but the Goldring is an excellent choice as well. The Blue just isn't for me.

[@poisonflour6723]

E3 is a great cart had one one my Rega P2 but it got bumped and need to replace stylus - I agree it is a very delicate cart

[@thevinylattack]

I'm sorry to hear about the damage. I hope you're able to fix it.

[@poisonflour6723]

@@thevinylattack just a simple stylus replacement nothing major

[@jeremyr722]

I just upgraded from an Ortofon Red to an Sumiko Moonstone and was blown away. I really thought the differences would be subtle. They aren’t. Setup was easier than I was expecting too. Next upgrade I might just blow past the Amethyst and go for the Sumiko Songbird

[@thevinylattack]

Ortofon makes a good starter upgrade, but once you move past that you'll find very quickly that there's a world of sonic possibility out there.

[@owenlaprath4135]

FYI: Inspect those E1/2/3 cartridges up close and then look at an Audio Technica cartridge! The Goldring E-series are rebadged AT generator bodies (AT95? that would also explain the upper midrange shout you mentioned), which are wrapped into a larger plastic envelope. They were announced somewhere around 2017. The idea is the same as with Ortofon's 2M series (introduced in 2007), which are the same old skinny OM bodies, that are resonance tamed with a very large plastic casing around them. The result is, that any "edgy" mid and high frequency resonance-sounds are dampened by the plastic body, so the typical AT95 "shriek" is gone (sort of).

[@brianhaemorrhoidic5636]

Brilliant review and matches my own experience with this cartridge which beats a Nagaoka mp110 hands down and for less money. I suspect that many Rega Planar 2/3 users why buy new and accept the ‘fit & forget’ option of the Elys 2 are missing out purely because they could have passed on that ‘meh’ Rega cartridge and been instead spellbound by the e3/RB (insert which version of their tonearm you had fitted here) combination. Yes, better cartridges out there but: a) at this price I think not b) it brings a piece of magic to entry / mid level decks Enjoy!

[@thevinylattack]

Hopefully people will be more prone to trying new carts with a little encouragement.

[@1mctous]

For a rather different view of the E3 vs. MP-110, I submit Ian Lee's review with sound samples: kzbin.info/www/bejne/e5CcaZmBhtmontU

[@gingernutpreacher]

What country are you in I paid the eaqilvalnt of $105 because of a offer .I've only ever herd the 110 on KZbin and the siblance is striking if it is as bad as I hear it would do my head in you're thought's please

[@brianhaemorrhoidic5636]

@@gingernutpreacher UK & can’t say sibilance was an issue with the 110: just that the e3 was more ‘musical’ and has a better tonal balance & sense of drama.

[@brianhaemorrhoidic5636]

@@1mctous in regards that video: the reviewer seems to like Nagaoka. Fair enough - and Nagaoka do NOT make bad cartridges - quite the reverse. However, in regards the e3 vs 110 I have found the e3 just more enjoyable to listen to and at least (if not more) detailed. Instrument separation sounded better for instance.

[@JawalaWorld]

I have an early 80s Sony PS-LX2 coming and I'm just about settled on an E3 as the replacement cartridge. Great review. Thanks!

[@thevinylattack]

Happy to help.

[@VinylRescue]

I've seen a few other reviews on this cart and never really heard anything bad about it.

[@thevinylattack]

It's a very solid piece of kit.

[@prosatanic82]

I've stuck on Goldring Elan (now discontinued but you can find on ebay). Excellent performance for its price and even beats a lot of higher value cartridges. Great one for my budget and my Rega Planar 1, don't see it changing it any time soon.

[@thevinylattack]

It's a good feeling when you have something that works and makes you enjoy the music.

[@quocrip]

I took a punt on this cartridge before seeing this video. I had become tired of the Ortofon 2m Red, it just sounded like it was shouting at me. Having read a few reviews, I don't regret buying it at all. It's smooth, detailed, but doesn't lack excitement in it's reproduction. I really do enjoy this cart....a lot!!

[@thevinylattack]

I think it's definitely a nice change of pace from an Ortofon.

[@quocrip]

@@thevinylattack Yeah, totally agree. In the UK the E3 is the same price as the 2m Red, but I consider it a much better cart. Not sure if some of it is due to the lower output, but whichever way the E3 is a keeper for me!!

[@Meowwentthedino]

Currently run this cartridge and had the E2 too both are fantastic, I love how the cartridge cases are the same and styli are interchangeable if needed. I've ran this cartridge now for a number of years after my Nagaoka broke :( but I've not felt compelled to upgrade, especially since it's less than £100 here in the uk at the moment, I am due to swap out the stylus or clean it but other than that I can not complain at all!

[@thevinylattack]

Great to hear!

[@kyron42]

Jesus for a second I thought it was Badseed tech. Good to see you back. I love cartridge reviews.

[@thevinylattack]

I'm not familiar, but I'm glad you liked the review.

[@ender3882]

I just wanna say, awesome choice with the akira soundtrack. Probably my favorite movie of all time, due in large part to the amazing music.

[@thevinylattack]

It's an overlooked masterpiece.

[@perfectstack-music]

The E3 is an amazing "Bang for your buck", nice review.

[@thevinylattack]

While it's certainly good for the money, I also think it's simply good.

[@FlyGuy457]

Nicely done. Hope you get to grow this channel. You have such an honest style. Thumbs up.

[@thevinylattack]

I appreciate that.

[@allenstrombosky3767]

since 1999 -- I have used the 1012GX and the 1022GX on my Music Hall 5, and love then , This year 2024 I bought the E3 for my B Rig , Music Hall 1.5 can not get past how good it sounds, one LP after another .

[@thevinylattack]

It's a very good buy.

[@jeremiahchamberlin4499]

I’m so glad you’re willing to review cartridges. I’m looking to upgrade my Stanton 500 Mark II that came on my used Numark DJ turntable. The Goldriing 1042 was highly recommended; but the new technology, as you have described it sounds very interesting 🤨

[@thevinylattack]

I'm hoping to do more in the future.

[@Mr512austintexas]

Would you consider this cart a major step up from a Grado Green3? I have a Pioneer SX-1010 with a Micro Seiki BL-51 turntable, and it's about time to retire the Grado, which I've been very happy with (it still sounds great, but it's been on there for awhile). Are you familiar with the Grado Opus3, and if so, do you think the Goldring E3 is better?

[@thevinylattack]

I haven't heard the Grado, so I can't say for sure. I can say that the E3 is a great buy, though.

[@VMX1.]

Great review Chris....all the best.

[@thevinylattack]

Thanks for that, I appreciate it.

[@galeazzosanvitale6202]

If you enjoyed the E3 , you should try the 1042… it is on the same level of Nag MP300. They have now ditched it for the their flagship MM , the brand new 2500 but (IMAO) not as balanced and musical

[@thevinylattack]

If I can get my hands on one, I'd very much like to hear it.

[@ttownscott]

I'm curious about that comparison. I have the 1022 and curious if these new Goldrings are a step forward

[@pointsbeingmade7996]

Correct. The 1022-1043 is fantastic cartridges. The Elite is way more expensive and.. better.

[@mjallenuk]

Stunning chap... I have absolutely no need for such a respectable Cartridge but I suddenly want one. Encore sir!

[@thevinylattack]

There's always the option of making the need for one ;-)

[@mjallenuk]

@@thevinylattack I like your thinking but I feel it may end up in my wife asking for a divorce...

[@thevinylattack]

@@mjallenuk I'm afraid I'm no help there.

[@kyron42]

Would be good to have a comparison video between high output moving-coil and moving magnet of similar price. Also it would be good to capture the output from your phono preamp and uploaded with the video.

[@thevinylattack]

It'd take a bit of doing as the channel isn't big enough yet to pull those kinds of high end carts, but I'll certainly try. I'm looking at recording audio as I type so hopefully sooner than later.

[@kyron42]

@@thevinylattack High output moving-coil cartridges are typically $400 so I wouldn't really call them high-end. They are generally designed to work with mm preamps.

[@thevinylattack]

@@kyron42 At that price, the only MC cart I know worth its salt is the Denon DL-103. I don't think they'd be that interested in sending one for review considering their long heritage and well reknown.

[@kyron42]

@@thevinylattack There's also the ortofon MC-3 turbo. It usually sounds good over KZbin.

[@wendyzzika3397]

The GR 3 is one of the best MM cartridges in the given price range. Try it and you will be surprised!

[@geepee280]

Great review, really enjoy your channel, one of the finest on KZbin. Are you going to do a review of the E-Glo Petit?

[@thevinylattack]

I will be doing a review, yes. I just got sidetrack with some things and then other products had a time table so I need to get those reviews done first. Thanks for the kind words.

[@S.L.1211]

I upgraded from the 2M Red (which I never was overly a fan of) and went to the Audio Technica VM95SH and love it. $300 Canadian. It’s a Nude Shabita diamond with high end detail and extension with lots of body, gorgeous midrange and tight bottom end. Good “budget” upgrade. Consider it as its in the same range as this (although I’ve not heard the Goldring).

[@pointsbeingmade7996]

Good choice.

[@thevinylattack]

I've heard very good things about the AT, but I haven't had a chance to sit down and really listen to it.

[@djb8816]

I do enjoy the Grado Prestige Gold, also not a bad price point

[@shaneclaflin8622]

It might sound optimal when ohm matching the load resistance.

[@thevinylattack]

Every cart does.

[@josephchamberlain3681]

Hoping you'll do some benchmark comparisons so viewers might have a better sense of scale when it comes to performance. Like a photographer holding up a quarter in a photo so you have a sense of scale.

[@thevinylattack]

I don't follow.

[@josephchamberlain3681]

@@thevinylattack ok

[@DjSkiHi]

Very informative, thanks. Just curious whether you could also recommend a headshell that would work best with this cart (probably not such a big deal, but thought I should consider it)...thanks

[@thevinylattack]

The only turntable with a removable headshell I have is my Technics. I just use what came with it.

[@t3dewys]

It is already on my short list for my secondary system. Thanks for the review. It will be replacing my AT 95E on my SL-1900.

[@thevinylattack]

I think the improvements you'll hear will surprise you. Make sure to drop back by and let us know what you think.

[@t3dewys]

@@thevinylattack I just ordered it, so I’ll let you know!

[@pointsbeingmade7996]

Great move. At95e is good 2!

[@PhotoTubeUK]

Also consider the AT VM95ML with the micro line stylus. It has a smooth but detailsed sound and the ML stylus profile means the diamond tip last twice as long as an ellipitical stylus.

[@t3dewys]

@@thevinylattack I just got the E3 hooked up, aligned, and set to the proper tracking weight. First album is playing. John Coltrane Quartet Ballads. Oh my!!! It sounds amazing!!! So far, so great! Thanks for the recommendation.

[@snoopw528]

Hi. Time to replace the Nagaoka MP110 on my Empire 698. Good match or should I be looking for something more suitable to a deck of the Empire's vintage? Thanks for your time.

[@thevinylattack]

I'm sure the E3 would be a fine fit.

[@snoopw528]

@@thevinylattack Appreciate the super fast response. A bit more research, give it a day or two and I will act. Leaning towards the E3 and wil be happy to let you know once I have it and it has gone through its "broken in" time. Enjoy your day.

[@samuraix73]

Nice review. I'm only sorry that this review only came out after I ordered that same Skid Row pressing online last week. Oh well, at least I still have my original pressing.

[@thevinylattack]

It's not unbearable, but I was really hoping for more after the RSD version of Slave to the Grind was so good.

[@72twist]

Ive been running a Denon DL-103 through a Tonar Vinyline 4189 for 15 years and its a great budget combo but it suffers from Inner groove distortion with more lively tracks near the end of the record side. Would/should the Goldring E3 handle IGD better with is elliptical stylus compared to the DL-103 or any conical other conical stylus?

[@thevinylattack]

It's certainly possible the E3 would perform better, but it might be more the turntable than the cartridge. The DL 103 is a classic and I can't say I've ever really encountered much inner groove distortion from it.

[@scottelling5606]

Does anyone know how this cart compares to the Goldring 1042 or others in the 1000 line?

[@peterstudley1804]

It doesn't compare to the goldring 1042 or others in the 1000 series , the 1042 is a steller performer , but can be fiddly to set up/align due to the body shape, the goldring E series is a re bodied Audio-technica vm95 series cart which are good but not in the same league as the 1042 .

[@michaelkennedy736]

Love the channel 🤘

[@thevinylattack]

Thanks!

[@arliecrumpler3213]

I currently have the AT85E. It doesn't sound bad but I am looking for an upgrade without breaking the bank. What do you think about the Grado Blue? I have an old Technics SL QD33 and just ordered the P Mount version from LP Gear. I thought it looked like a good deal for $125. Been thinking seriously about the Fluance RT85 after watching your video on that. Maybe this new cartridge will do the trick and save me a little money.

[@thevinylattack]

I don't know that I've heard the Grado.

[@arliecrumpler3213]

@@thevinylattack It would be nice if you could do a product review on some of their cartridges. U. S. company with competitive prices. Great channel! I really enjoy the effort, detail, and honesty.

[@thevinylattack]

@@arliecrumpler3213 It's certainly a possibility.

[@hashman3171]

Interesting info on cartridges that I never knew,I don't know if this cartridge would work well with metal music as my primary choice but is the cost worth it to find out? I'm happy with my ortophon red for the time being but definitely something to ponder on!! Thanks again

[@thevinylattack]

A cart should be able to play all music well even if some music might shine more than others. Pantera sounded great with this cart and I wouldn't hesitate for a minute to upgrade form a Red to the E3.

[@SpirallingOut]

I'm thinking of the Fluance RT85, which comes standard with a similarly priced (when buying the cartridge separate) Ortofon 2M Blue for my first turntable. How would the E3 on a decent entry level ($500+) turntable compare? Is there a better but not overly expensive tt/cartridge choice for music genres like doom/stoner/desert/psyche rock & metal - bands like Elder, Black Sabbath, Tool, Sleep, Hippie Death Cult, Saint Karloff, Jimi Hendrix, etc? This is what I mostly listen to.

[@thevinylattack]

Personally, I like the Nagaoka MP 110 and the E3 very much. The 2M blue is a well built cart for sure, it's just too bright for my personal taste. All of these however, would play quite nicely with the RT85.

[@SpirallingOut]

@@thevinylattack Thanks

[@LutherusPandragon]

Would like to see your review of Excalibur cartridges

[@thevinylattack]

I can put in a request and see what I get.

[@georgeanastasopoulos5865]

Wonderful, enlightening lecture. I want to know is it possible to replace the stylus on a Goldring E2 phono cartridge I recently bought with the E3 stylus? I'd like to eventually replace the original E2 stylus, as well as for an experiment on one of my turntables. Therefore, is it possible to install the E3 stylus on the same cartridge body? I'm curious about temporarily replacing the Audio Technica AT70 cartridge on harman kardon T25; hearing the difference when I mount the Goldring E2. Then I'll place back the AT70; and mount the Goldring E2 cartridge on a Rega DIY turntable build. Long story, bought a "Rega Plinth Upgrade" from Moldova; then I'll build the turntable from new, and used Rega parts. And to me this project is also about the accomplishment. Then I am wondering if I can replace the Goldring E2 Stylus, by installation of the E3 Stylus onto the SAME CARTRIDGE BODY; can this changing to the elliptical E3 stylus be done? I also recently bought a used, odd Rega Planar 3 turntable - without tonearm - whereby I am to install a Linn Basik Plus Tonearm; discovered this discrepancy of mounting distance from vinylengine dot com web site for which I am a member. I've mounted an Audio Technica AT95E cartridge on the Rega P3 turntable. Therefore, I am curious about the differences, or slight improvements on the sound of music that are to be discovered from these 2, or 3 MM cartridges. Thank you for any (in italics) sound advice!🔈🎵

[@thevinylattack]

From what it seems, you would indeed be able to replace the stylus on the E2 with the E3. I haven't tried it myself though, so I can't guarantee it.

[@georgeanastasopoulos5865]

@@thevinylattack Thank you very much for your very quick reply, and answer. Therefore, I cancelled an order from ebay for the Goldring E3 Stylus. I'm going to stay with the original E2 stylus on the Goldring cartridge.

[@ajmoore2201]

It 100% is, it's the same concept as the Ortofon 2M red and blue. The Goldring E series all have the same cartridge, the stylus' are interchangable, making the upgrade path easy

[@georgeanastasopoulos5865]

@@ajmoore2201 Thank you very much for informing me on this specific technical topic.

[@ericshutter5305]

where did the Hana ML review go??

[@thevinylattack]

A question for the ages. But really, I should get it done at some point. I've just been busier with time-sensitive reviews.

[@patryk4323]

What about bass in this cartridge?

[@thevinylattack]

It's right in the review, bud.

[@s.t.e.r.e.o.]

What is the current cart you are running? I think I saw you were going to review but didn't see it posted.

[@thevinylattack]

I have a Hana ML. I still need to do that review, but some other things came up first.

[@s.t.e.r.e.o.]

@@thevinylattack Yes like the flood. Not trying to be pushy just Curious keep up the great work you channel is bomb. Love the anti static vids I think I might have one for you that I just ordered a couple. Ill send you one when I get it.

[@thevinylattack]

@@s.t.e.r.e.o. I appreciate the encouragement.

[@Madjed2024]

Would appreciate if you can give me an advice on what cartridge can be the most compatible with Denon Turntable 57L to get the most of it considering I listen 40% classical music, 30% jazz, 20% rock and 10% world music Thank you Chris Much appreciate

[@thevinylattack]

What you listen to has no bearing on the cartridge. A good cart can play anything well.

[@Madjed2024]

@@thevinylattack thank you Chris. Would the E3 work on that Denon ? By the way looks like they now have the E4, likely not yet made available everywhere

[@thevinylattack]

​@@Madjed2024 The E3 would be a fine addition, yes. I haven't heard the E4, but I would expect a good performance.

[@Madjed2024]

@@thevinylattack greatly appreciated your prompt response

[@pointsbeingmade7996]

Attack!

[@beeb666]

You have new subscriber sir! Thank you!

[@thevinylattack]

Welcome aboard!

[@mortlach186]

Goldring's have always sound lacking to me. Something muted, stunted. Try something from Audio Technica (really improved over the years), or try a Nagaoka. The MP110 trounces the Goldring in every respect. On a friends Rega P2 with an E3 that a dealer in town suggested, he had reservations over the sound of his setup. I brought over my probably ten year old MP110 and my newer MP-200, a totally awesome MM cartridge and set it up (the110) on his table. I've been setting up Linn's and the like for forty years and brought my setup tools ($400.00 plus worth) in a case specifically for turntable setup. I first checked his Goldring, setup was fine, then setup my Nagaoka and even brought various spacers for the arm (if your going to do it right). You really want to try something nice, checkout the MP110. If you don't want to wet your pants, don't try the MP200. It's that much better and I was afraid if I put it on the Rega, I'd never get it back.

[@thevinylattack]

Not every cart is for every person, certainly. I can say for sure though that their top of the line Ethos is far from stunted and will perform as well as anything in its class. It's just about finding what works best for you.

[@mortlach186]

@@thevinylattack You're right, not every cart is for every person. Again, $1500.00? Hana SL MC ($750.00) should dispense with that. MP200 will probably go toe to toe, if not best it . Dynavector, Soundsmith , have products at that price point. The Hana was so good that it went toe to toe with my three times the price Dynavector and frankly a bunch of other pricier competition. I will never spend two, three or more thousand dollars on a cartridge again. If you haven't heard it yet, the Hana MC low output is one of the best buys out there. I'm not saying that it's the best, I don't know if there is a best. Maybe a Scan-Tech. They build sooo many of the cartridge's under other brand names. Linn Karma, Troika, also had it rebuilt by Garrot Brothers, Krystal, Spectral MDR, can't remember them all, were made by Scan-Tech, and I loved them all. Dynavector Diamond, Ruby, and an XX-2 along with a linn Krystal that I currently use along sometimes the MP-200 Permalloy cantilever. Maybe a dozen more I forgot; oh I have a working Supex 900 Super with the matching transformer. I think that that cartridge was ground zero for every moving coil to come. I might just go mount that this week. Oh and a Koetsu Onyx I purchased from Christopher Hansen Audio in LA many a years ago that I still have but not working. Worth rebuilding or maybe not.

[@thevinylattack]

@@mortlach186 I have the Hana ML, and the Goldring was more than competitive with it. Nothing Nagaoka makes (as much as I love them) is competing with the Ethos in my opinion. Sure, there are tons of other carts from manufacturers that will sound every bit as good, but that's where it comes down to preference. Frankly, you sound like you just don't care for the company so I don't see you buying one anyway. Other people might not feel that way. That's the whole point of what I do here.

[@mortlach186]

@@thevinylattack Before Covid19, I would never have watched or even known about the myriad of reviewers, and sites out there covering everything and then some. I even watched a video about how to repair a problem with my snowblower; the exact model and problem. Who knew (well I didn't know)? Well, a neighbor who watches these sites suggested three audio sites that he said are not a waste of time, and theirs a lot of out there. You, being on that shortlist, the first time I tuned into you, you happened to cover a cartridge that I just dealt with. Surprised me the timing. And no, I don't have feelings one way or another about the company. Used to sell them years ago but never sold much and do not remember much one way or another. Now that's not to say that I don't have stronger opinions about a few companies out there. When you have been into this hobby like me since the early seventies ( I blame my older brother who's not an audiophile but owned great gear starting in college), you acquire some opinions. But I try to be open minded. Hell, my feelings for digital music has done a complete turnaround and I'm a true analog camp type, or used to be. But listening is subjective and no anything in my mind is best just like I have not had my favorite single malt. I like a certain style and if another drinker doesn't appreciate Islay malts, then nuts to them (kidding). I'll keep my opinions to myself. I did watch your Humminguru but I'll have to watch it again. I don't remember your takeaway from it. Oh yea, and for the record, I find your reviewing style, clear, concise, and to the point.

[@hoobsgroove]

what about doing the top of the range cartridges about$900 some people claiming it's as good as a $4,000 cartridge, seems to get good reviews

[@thevinylattack]

I can look into it for sure.

[@hoobsgroove]

@@thevinylattack yeah be good cheers!

[@snavs1966]

Hi from Denmark....Thanks for a great review. I got a SL1300 with a SUPER OM 5E. I know you dont like Ortofon sound performance. Could I improve a lot here or ? Take care and have fun. Søren

[@thevinylattack]

Ironically, I have an OM 10 here with which I did a side by side comparison. The E3 was superior in every way. While the OM series doesn't have the pronounced upper mids and highs that I don't care for with the Red and Blue, it was just less detailed and refined than the E3.

[@pointsbeingmade7996]

The great thing about the om5 is the tracking quality.

[@snavs1966]

@@thevinylattack Is it all about the needle or do the housing have an impact to. Asking because I have the SUPER housing. Thx in advance.

[@snavs1966]

@@pointsbeingmade7996 So far in that point i'm very happy...thx

[@thevinylattack]

@@snavs1966 The cartridge construction itself has just as much to do with the sound (if not more) than the stylus.

[@rudios112]

Can i fit this under my Marlux mx-66?

[@thevinylattack]

As far as I can tell, yes.

[@CosmicKnight1]

Akira for the win!

[@thevinylattack]

It's such a good movie.

[@brunohebert1351]

Nice review (as always should i say) though now, you should stick to the same records for reviewing any other cartridge. Just for the sake of keeping things equal as much as possible (you want that the only thing that change in the system is the cartridge). Speaking of which, cartridge I mean, have you experienced the Nagaokas? the MP-110 surely fit in the Goldring E3 price range. If you haven't maybe we can work something out (let me know how we can connect directly) A great resource when it comes to cartridges on YT is HiViNyws channel (Ian is based in Singapore but has thoroughly tested many cartridges and other systems, really worth checking out his channel if you don't know him) Thanks to him, I use a MP-110 from Nagaoka. I also acquired a Shure WhiteLabel (a dream for me when growing up). Unfortunately, Shure is no longer in the cartridge business so I had to buy stylus from Japan (JIco or something like that) that are supposed to be as close to the original as possible.. I can't tell having never heard the original Shure stylus but I can say that the Nagaoka MP-110 is better anyway. I tend to use the WL for older more beat up record as it tends to pick up not as much details therefore not as much defects du to the condition/age of the records.

[@thevinylattack]

If I used the same records for every cart review, I'd probably lose my mind, lol. If I were doing a direct comparison, I'd surely use a couple of the same but that isn't the case here. I happen to have a Nagaoka 110 and 150 and really wanted to compare the 110, but if you can believe it, I can't find either of those carts in my house. I have no idea where I put them.

[@brunohebert1351]

@@thevinylattack oh no.. I hope they were not lost in the flooding. And that you'll soon find them again (especially the MP150 those are not cheap)

[@thevinylattack]

@@brunohebert1351 I don't think they were. I'm guessing I somehow just hid them very well from myself. Which sucks.

[@jaysee4997]

you have good vibes in your blood

[@thevinylattack]

It's probably just whiskey.

[@toranarama1]

I have it, great value

[@thevinylattack]

I tend to agree.

[@Mark0072U]

That you picked a Rush album just made you a whole lot cooler, Bro!! Sorry. IPA's got me being all honest and stuff......

[@thevinylattack]

I appreciate the kind words.

[@stevet7487]

But he refuses to pronounce Neil's name correctly. Uncool.

[@curtiscoleman8446]

Need to edit my comment below-I hear NO surface noise when at my normal listening position. Left out an important negative!

[@polarbear3427]

not impressed by the stereo separation of 20dB at 1 Khz, which is on paper not very good. compared to an old Philips GP412 or Technics 270C, not goot at all, at least on paper.

[@thevinylattack]

That's why it pays to hear them in person ;-)

[@hunkydorian]

He's got the beard, check. He's got the black t-shirt with something printed on it, check. He's got the tattoos, check. He's got the "classic rock" records, check.

[@stevet7487]

But he refuses to pronounce Neil Peart's name correctly. NO check.

[@peterstudley1804]

These goldring E series carts are re-bodied Audio-technica vm95 series carts made for goldring in Japan, Goldring have been making high quality carts in Bishop's Stortford uk for decades, the best still being made here in England. Study the spec's carefully and you will see this is a re-bodied Audio-technica vm95 series, not that this is a bad thing because the AT-95 is a very good budget cart series , but the goldring versions are more expensive, that's why i won't be buying this goldring cart , I'll stay with Audio-technica.

[@thevinylattack]

They absolutely aren't.

[@pointsbeingmade7996]

I understand that the goal is not bright sounding carts here. E3 is not as coloured as 2m blue wich can be Nice its accurate if one likes that. When I buy a cartridge thats not shibata nor microline I feel like I am kidding myself after I started to appreciate mc carts brightness and low end combined like Goldring Elite or atoc9. And for the money of the shibata from audiotechnica thats Brown in colour you can get a atoc7 instead thats mc. If buying cheaper than 200 you are better Of getting a used cd player for 50-100. It will sound clearer. Sure it wont have the smothness of vinyl. Not even counting the cost of the riia that is wich will also likely make it sound worse than a cd player. The cartridges at this pricepoint is just making you spend more in the end. Tried the Elan from goldring very over-rated.

[@RnRanimal]

boring

[@dirkbusche3410]

Blablabla.... too much words, no informations., no music. A Nogo.

[@thevinylattack]

Since we're not able to play music on KZbin due to their copyright laws, one has to use words to describe the product at hand. Sorry if you didn't understand any of them.

[@dirkbusche3410]

Sorry for that. Thought, it would be possible, to make it like other Hifi-Video-producers.