Vinyl Asylum: REVIEW: Garrott Brothers Optim FGS Moving Magnet cartridge Phono Cartridge by RM

Model:	Optim FGS Moving Magnet cartridge
Category:	Phono Cartridge
Suggested Retail Price:	$AU1000
Description:	Output: 4.0 mV at 5 cm/sec; Loading: 47 K ohms; Track force 1.7 - 2.0 gms; Fritz Geiger Signature stylus
Manufacturer URL:	Garrott Brothers
Model Picture:	View

Review by RM ( A ) on October 07, 2004 at 03:38:06
IP Address: 220.253.64.4

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for the Optim FGS Moving Magnet cartridge

Paul Szabady's glowing review of this magnificent MM cartridge really says it all (StereoTimes 14 August 2002). See http://www.stereotimes.com/cart081402.shtm.
All I can add is that I totally agree with his findings, and that it is a match made in heaven with the REGA P9 turntable. I bought it after 5 minutes audition. It just sounded "right"!
The synergy is awesome. Each mutually reinforces their common qualities of vitality, emotional communication and sheer dynamic, joyful music making. Forget HiFi - this combo makes music.
I am content, and can now spend my hard earned on more vinyl.

Product Weakness: None for the money
Product Strengths: See review

Associated Equipment for this Review:
Amplifier:	Original Quad II monoblocs
Preamplifier (or None if Integrated):	Graham Slee projects Era Gold V phono stage + home brew dual mono volume control box using Noble pots
Sources (CDP/Turntable):	Rega P9, Expressimo Audio Heavyweight, Marigo Damping Dots + Garrott Bros Optim FGS MM cartridge
Speakers:	Tannoy Turnberry
Cables/Interconnects:	Nordost Red Dawn i/c + Blue Heaven bi-wire speaker with Eichmann bananas
Music Used (Genre/Selections):	All
Room Size (LxWxH):	3.9m x 3.6m x 2.8m
Room Comments/Treatments:	Herbies Audio Labs HAL-O tube dampers, tenderfeet, ball cups + ebony ball equipment support
Time Period/Length of Audition:	12 months
Other (Power Conditioner etc.):	DBA Electronics Line Balancer + RC300 Voltage Regulator, Stealth Audio HAC power cords, PS Audio JuiceBar
Type of Audition/Review:	Product Owner

Product Weakness:	None for the money
Product Strengths:	See review