Cartridges
The questions we are asked most, answered honestly.
Cartridges — Frequently asked questions
Which cartridge suits my Planar best?
Every turntable on the market consists of four important facets: the plinth itself, the arm, the platter and the motor. The fifth part is, in principle, the stylus, the cartridge. Which cartridge exactly suits your turntable depends on which quality of Planar you have at home. The quality of the cartridge has to match the quality of that turntable.
A very expensive cartridge on the cheapest Planar is therefore not a good idea. Simply stay within the same quality category. Have a look in our catalogue if you like, there you can see how the combinations belong together.
If you have a Planar 2 from 1995, it can still take an ND3. If you have a Planar 3 from 2000, you can happily fit an ND5 from 2026 to it.
Written by Bram Verellen, Wim Verellen
Can I mount any cartridge on any arm, including another brand?
No, you cannot simply fit any cartridge on just any arm. Most brands are compatible with each other, but that calls for some research beforehand.
It is true that you can use different brands of cartridges on different brands of arms. It is best to look into that carefully in advance, and discuss it with your dealer.
There are also brands, such as Rega, that make both the arms and the cartridges. Those are, of course, perfectly matched to each other.
Written by Bram Verellen
Do I need spacers when I fit a cartridge from another brand?
No, you don't always need a spacer when you fit a cartridge from another brand. It does, however, call for the necessary research beforehand.
There are plenty of spacers available, so a proper solution can always be found.
Written by Bram Verellen
How long does a cartridge last?
Many years. What ultimately limits it is the suspension: it is often made of a rubber or plastic material, and that ages.
Our advice: count on eight to ten years.
Written by Wim Verellen
How do I know whether my stylus is worn?
If your stylus is worn, the high frequencies sound dull or less clear and the music lacks detail.
Distortion can also creep in.
Written by Bram Verellen
Can I replace only the stylus, or must the whole cartridge go?
That differs from cartridge to cartridge. With some you can replace only the stylus, with others the whole cartridge has to go.
Cartridges of better quality usually have to be replaced entirely. Then it makes sense to look at an upgrade straight away.
Various brands also run a trade-in scheme, where you get a loyalty discount if you stay with the same cartridge or the same brand.
Written by Bram Verellen
My cartridge is damaged. Buy new, or is there an exchange programme?
Most brands operate an exchange programme under which you receive a loyalty discount from the brand.
Written by Bram Verellen