Goldring has been in business since 1906, so it’s about time Paul Rigby reviewed one of its products then, eh? It has waited long enough! In this review, he tackles the new E3 cartridge
The company recently announced the launch of its E series of cartridges. All relatively low cost and all of interest to either budget users or those looking to upgrade their introductory cartridge with something rather more interesting.
The three units in the E series are based upon Magnetic Duplex Technology (you can add a ™ in there, if you wish). The idea behind the technology is to improve stereo rendition. Both the E1 and E2 models include spherical styli with a choice of cantilevers. The E3 model, which I look at here, has an aluminium cantilever – the same unit used on the E1 and E2 – but adds a “superior bonded”, super-elliptical stylus measuring 0.3 x 0.7mil. This is what attracted me to the E3, I was looking for a blend of value and high frequency groove detail retrieval as well as sibilance reduction. Especially as a basic elliptical stylus measure around 0.4 x 0.7mil. Compare those measurements too with the E1 and E2’s spherical tip at 0.6mil.
According to Goldring, “The E Series cartridges use a specially designed adjustment screw to locate the cantilever, rather than the standard xed pin, allowing micro-adjustments during production. This pre-set azimuth means crosstalk is already optimised and the cartridge can be safely installed in a typical turntable with no correction required.”
During the record mastering process the cutting lathe records stereo information as a ‘V’ shaped groove which has perpendicular side walls angled at 45°, “Conventional moving magnet cartridges,” added the company, “use a single large magnet that interacts with two vertically mounted coils to produce a stereo signal from the groove. This can introduce crosstalk and so only offers a modest amount of stereo separation.”
This is why the Goldring E Series cartridges feature a dual magnet arrangement, “Magnetic Duplex Technology uses two low mass magnets which interact only with their partnering pickup coil, angled at 45° to match the cutting head arrangement. This enables the cartridges to more accurately trace the record groove because they precisely emulate the geometry of the cutting head, making for better stereo separation and a more accurate, involving and musical soundstage.”
I was happy to see that the Goldring chassis features threaded screw holes inside the chassis itself. This is a £100 moving magnet cartridge and thus will feature in the hands of beginners or cautious vinyl users possibly unfamiliar with regular cartridge fittings. The last thing you want to do to a nervous hi-fi installer is tell them to juggle tiny screws that dangle outside of a chassis, adopting odd and scary angles depending on how you hold them, with tiny nuts that threaten to ping off into a dimension occupied solely by cartridge nuts, pens and odd socks and then try to tighten the entire thing with a tiny screwdriver while, at the same time, avoiding the cantilever! It’s bad enough asking an experienced hi-fi journalist to do such a thing, never mind an uneasy music fan. Goldring have got this part of the design right.
Fitting the Goldring to my tonearm (with 2g of downforce) was intriguing mainly because, once in there, it looks absolutely enormous! It reminded me of some of the cartridges used on hi-fi in the 60s or even the 50s. The Goldring chassis is obviously a nostalgic reflection on times when men were men and cartridges were the size of an articulated lorry. Yet, the very largeness of the thing also helped in terms of installation. It imbued more confidence during handling.
SOUND QUALITY
I began by playing the original pressing of Nancy Sinatra’s LP Country, My Way, produced by Lee Hazelwood and the track, It’s Such a Pretty World Today, a wholly romantic, even twee song.
The initial impression was an over-whelming sense of focus from the Goldring. This track had Sinatra’s voiced pushed down a classic echo chamber and so, even the slightest midrange smearing combined with excessive noise will puff out the voice in a cloud of nasty distortive attack. The Goldring took immediate control of any potentially wayward frequencies and reigned in the Sinatra voice to give her delivery a rather playful and wistful quality. The echo chamber obviously still remained as an effect but Sinatra’s voice presented welcome femininity instead of Goldzilla in a skirt.
This focus also leant itself to aiding the backing singers. Their harmonies tended to rise in the higher registers which only added to the smeared mids. The new level of precision, though, added welcome harmonic textures that gave the vocals a layered richness.
Another element that could have suffered from the loose upper mids was the notable twangy slide guitar. The Goldring provided a sense impressive detail from this instrument. Speaking of which, the Goldring’s lower noise performance meant that the piano popped out of the mix, giving a tonally realistic performance. The piano, on this track is an adjunct to the main song but its an important one that gives breadth to the soundstage.
Percussion and bass also now had a greater sense of recognition because the lack of bass bloom drew them both from a blacker background. Hence, the new level of clarity enabled the ear to pick up a new sense of impact and strength from this area.
Another notable aspect of the soundstage were the acoustic guitars, the attacking strumming on the right channel and the subtle strumming on the left. Both offered tremendous midrange insight and musicality that added a sense of speed to the performance.
I then turned to the post punk vibes from Die Werkpiloten via Germany’s Vinyl on Demand label from 2012.
This is a drum-heavy LP, fast paced percussion and high energy to boot and I was impressed by the organic nature of the drums. The Goldring gave the music impact and power and a real sense of pace but kept in touched with the humaneseque nature of the drums, rounding their edges just enough to prevent and sense of the clinical.
The low noise approach to the Goldring also enhanced the instrumental separation along the soundstage, giving each instrument a sense of space to perform at its best. The soundstage never felt crowded or stilted and the lead vocal thus provided an emotional yet flowing performance.
CONCLUSION
Sensibly designed for use by beginners or vinyl fans with minimal hardware experience, the considered design of the E3 provides a sense of clarity and midrange purity with a bass that delights in terms of information and character. In terms of the inherent sound quality from this cartridge, the E3 provides exceptional value for money. In fact, it is one of the best budget cartridges, at this price point, currently for sale on the market.
GOLDRING E3 CARTRIDGE
Price: £100
Web: www.goldring.co.uk
TO BUY CLICK BELOW:
USA – https://amzn.to/2TPSslC
EUROPE – https://amzn.to/2GkAYuE
GOOD: focus, precision, clarity, midrange control, bass impact, design, price
BAD: none
RATING: 9
REFERENCE
Rega RP3 turntable
Ortofon 2M Red
Trichord Dino phono amplifier
Rega Brio-R amplifier
Spendor S3/5R2 speakers
Tellurium Q cables
Harmonic Resolution Systems Noise Reduction Components
All vinyl was cleaned using Audio Desk’s Ultrasonic Pro Vinyl Cleaner
142 Comments
Dermot Bell
30th July 2017 at 7:15 pmThanks for the insightful review Paul. Looks like Goldring have a winner on their hands. They’re a lovely company to deal with too and I really wish them the very best of luck with their new range of cartridges.
Now for the 6 million dollar question : Reading your review and the various design elements at play leads me to believe that this is a really special design. However, as I currently use a 1006 series cartridge from the same company, would it be worth my while to ditch it for the new breed? In other words is this new range only for the beginner and, for want of a better ward, not for the experienced Connoisseur? I’ve had my 1006 cartridge some twenty years now having started with the 1042 and worked my way down actually preferring what I use now. I don’t like ultra transparency or unnecessary sibilance (a pet hate of mine) or even tight bass. My system is valve based using a hybrid design from Croft and Castle Howard’s going on 23 years old! I use two turntables – NA Spacedeck with original Space arm and a beautifully built first edition Analogue Works One turntable with a recently acquired Ace Space arm. I have a Goldring 1006 installed on both decks. Boring I know but I love that Goldring sound!
Anyway I hope it’s not too difficult a question. My first impression when I first found out about Goldring’s new cartridge range here was to simply bypass them as I felt, rightly or wrongly, that I’d be better sticking what I have. Now your review has thrown the cat among the pigeons 🙂
Paul Rigby
30th July 2017 at 7:28 pmHmmm, this is a tough one. Partly because I don’t have your ears. My instinct is to tell you to stick with what you have for now because you’re talking about a cart at double the price. I would say that, in the £100 region, the Goldring E3 is about the best you’re going to get. In essence, it’s low noise output means that there is a great focus and precision with a lovely open and airy midrange. I tested it on my valve system and it sounded excellent. I must admit, I have not tested your cart on my system so cannot directly compare, I’m afraid. Things have moved on since your cart was released and, no doubt, sound quality has improved. Yet, I would hedge by bets in advising you…do you have a nearby dealer who might be persuaded to grant a home demo or even if you take your Goldring in to compare it with an E3? That’s a suggestion if you feel determined to check out the E3. Bottom line, though? Keep what you have for now. What you might want to do is wait for me to investigate more Goldrings. This is something that is now on my radar. I’m due to look at the 2000 series soon-ish. Not sure if you might want to check those out first before you finally decide?
Benny STEVENS
13th May 2020 at 1:07 pmIt’s nor ‘mil’ – its mm!
Dermot Bell
30th July 2017 at 9:27 pmThanks for taking the time to reply Paul. It is a difficult one isn’t it? Trying one out is not going to happen anytime soon and wouldn’t be worth the hassle for a budget cartridge. I’ve also been advised to stick with what I have so you’re not the first. Maybe, just maybe it might be an idea to get one for either of the turntables anyway. At least it would be bring a little extra colour into my music room 🙂
I remember the 2000 series being reviewed in HFW a while back. I concluded then that they weren’t for me due to their analytical nature among other things.
Actually the only other cartridge that was more forgiving than the Goldring 1006 cartridge was the Nagaoka MP110. I tried it out on a new arm I was demoing at the time – the Goldring was a complete mismatch – and it was a revelation. Unfortunately I experienced massive static problems while playing a record. Loud bangs were the order of the day. Long story short : I blamed the arm, sent it back and waited almost 4 months for the Ace Space. When I reinstalled the Nagaoka on the new arm the bangs started again within the first hour. I was aghast to say the
least! So I reinstalled my trusty Goldring and, luckily enough, it was a perfect match…..plus the static bangs disappeared into the ether. A very frustrating experience and a first in nearly 40 years of hi fi madness. So there it is……
Paul Rigby
30th July 2017 at 9:35 pmThanks for your note, Dermot. Do you remember which 2000 series was reviewed in HFW? I’ll try and grab something different, for variety’s sake. 🙂 Who did that? Was it Tony Bolton? Be interested to know how a 2000 series sounds on my reference… Glad your tribulations worked out in the end. Sometimes we have to go through these things to find the sound we like, though.
Dermot Bell
30th July 2017 at 10:33 pmNo Paul I can’t remember which one. I’m sure Noel reviewed it. Ah poor Tony! I loved reading his reviews. He’s sadly missed. I remember he was settling down to the best he ever heard his system sound with the Isotek mains conditioner he was using at the time. I also remember one of his last review assignmenst, a pair of Epiphany Acoustic interconnects. I actually bought a pair in his memory and I still have the review! Sad to hear too that the company ceased trading.
You’re right you do have to go through tribulations from time to time when upgrading. That’s why I detest demoing equipment even though it’s the only way to find out. What works for me, even though it’s not blindingly obvious at the time, is when you’re not aware of the system anymore and the music just flows glorious towards your ears. It’s only then you realise that it’s working and blithely doing whatever magic it’s conjuring up……and the same word keeps popping up : Balance; in terms of frequencies anyway. My music is so eclectic that my system has to deliver on all counts whether I’m listening to Wire, Lemon Kittens, Young Marble Giants, anything on the Editions Mego label, Beatles, Elvis, CCR, John Fahey, Anthony Phillips, Jimi Hendrix, Hedvig Molestsad Trio, Scorch Trio etc etc etc…….
Just to let you know you, yourself, are a great asset to the HFW team with your music, hi fi and views column. I always turn to the back page first to see what music rocks your boat. Best hi fi magazine on the racks by a mile 🙂
Paul Rigby
31st July 2017 at 5:02 pmThanks for your kind words, Dermot.
Rob Stevenson
31st July 2017 at 2:33 pmI presume this is based on an Audio Technica?
Paul Rigby
31st July 2017 at 9:11 pmI’ve asked Goldring the question, Rob. Waiting for them to get back.
Paul Rigby
2nd August 2017 at 1:34 pmHi Rob, Here’s Goldring’s reply, “The Goldring E Series are indeed manufactured in Japan (as it states on the carton btw) by Audio Technica. Costs in the UK are generally too high to be ideal for budget cartridge manufacture. Goldring choose to manufacture their more upscale models in the UK. AT were an idea partner and willing to include Goldring’s ideas – like the adjustment screw and the easy stylus replacement – into the models as well as of course working with us on choice of cantilever and diamond profile. Acceptance of the new models has been superb and Goldring are delighted to be working with a partner that cares as much as we do about quality and consistency.”
ROB STEVENSON
21st August 2017 at 11:52 amThanks for the reply Paul, interesting, sounds like a very good partnership. I hope they do well and look forward to hearing one.
Dermot Bell
2nd August 2017 at 7:12 pmI had the same suspicions but elected not to say anything. Sounds like a good partnership. I also like Goldring’s idea re: the adjustment screw. You’ll have to review an Audio Technica now Paul 🙂 How about the new VM530EN which has an elliptical stylus profile. Anyway I have a very funny feeling that these new E’s are going to really upset the apple cart…
Karl Walker
28th August 2017 at 9:53 amHi Paul – firstly, great review! I notice that your ‘reference’ setup is a Rega P3 with Ortofon 2M Red. I have an older P3 with RB300 arm and am looking to change the cart; before I ‘discovered’ the Goldring E3 and your review, I was going to plump for the 2M Red as the [almost] de-facto standard £100 cart for the P3. In your opinion is the Goldring a better choice than the Ortofon? I’ve read varying reports that the 2M requires 2-4mm of spacers under the RB300 tonearm for the correct VTA. The Goldring blurb almost seems to imply that it has been designed as a drop-in replacement for medium to high-mass arms. Obviously, my question is, “is the Goldring E3 sonically better than the Ortofon 2M Red?”.
I was never a fan of the original Rega Elys that I had fitted to the P3, as it always sounded a bit flat and lifeless to me, preferring the more dynamic sound of the AudioTechnica carts (I currently have an ageing AT450E-OCC fitted). Any advice appreciated!
Paul Rigby
29th August 2017 at 9:39 amHi Karl
In short? Yes, the Goldring is superior. I still recommend the 2M Red, it’s an excellent cart. The Goldring pips it, though.
Grant Smerf
11th February 2021 at 10:48 pmHi Paul I was wondering about the trackability spec on this E3 and can”t find the spec anywhere? Also it looks very high and wondered if there is issues on Dual turntables…thinking a 701.
Paul Rigby
17th February 2021 at 10:07 amHi Grant – the E3 is about 15mm high (excluding cantilever and stylus tip – add another 3mm to that but 3mm in its natural state, it will be slightly compressed during play). Maybe you can use that info for your Dual. Not sure what you mean by trackability. As a design, it does track very well. I had no issues there and the tracking force itself is 2g. Hope that helps.
Grant Smerf
17th February 2021 at 3:35 pmThanks for the reply Paul and the educational forum here its great! As far as the Goldring height its very close to my Ortofon OM 20 so shouldn’t be an issue. The trackability is a spec that I have been coming across lately on specifications for cartridges. The “Tracking Ability” is the capacity of the cartridge to read more information with less distortion. This spec describes how well the stylus can track a modulated record groove. Trackability is measured by recording the maximum amplitude that a stylus can trace before the signal is distorted. Trackability is influenced by many factors – including stylus shape, cartridge alignment, and tonearm compatibility. The spec is often listed in micrometers (μm) – the higher the trackability spec, the better. For example the Ortofon 2M blue: Tracking ability at 315Hz at recommended tracking force – 80 µm. ….Thanks again
Paul Rigby
17th February 2021 at 5:32 pmThanks for the kind words, Grant. Ahh, ok. Well, using the Mk.1 Ears, I can report that tracking is fine for the E3 🙂 As a contrast, here’s a cartridge review where tracking *was* an issue: https://theaudiophileman.com/van-den-hul/
Cyrille
10th November 2017 at 8:27 amIt looks like it is a really good cart for the price.
I own a Luxman PX-101 and i was wondering if that E3 could feet right on it…
Paul Rigby
10th November 2017 at 11:06 amHi Cyrille – yep, the Goldring would work well with the Luxman I reckon.
Cyrille
10th November 2017 at 11:32 pmThanks for your answer. I will test it.
John
9th December 2017 at 10:33 amWould any of the Goldring E series suit a low mass arm such as the ADC alt-1 which I have on an old Ariston RD80 deck? If not how about the Rega Bias 2 or carbon? I currently have an ageing Rega RB100 fitted.
Paul Rigby
9th December 2017 at 10:56 amIf you like the Ariston and wish to persist with it, then a Golding would be a decent choice. Try to go for the E3. If and when you change/sell the RD80, take the Goldring with you for your next deck. : https://theaudiophileman.com/goldring-e3/
Alberto
23rd December 2017 at 10:20 amHi Paul , thanks for the interesting review.
I own a Rega P2 equipped with the standard Rega carbon catridge that I’d like to replace for something superior but without spending a fortune.
i thought about the goldring 2100 but this new E3 model intrigues me.how would you compare them?
I wonder if It fits on the Rega tonearms without spacers under the tonearm itself , as It is known Rega cartridges like Bias or Elys are 3/4 mm less high than the other brands.
Many thanks and kind regards
Paul Rigby
24th December 2017 at 8:22 pmHi Alberto – I used spacers because the E3 spans around 18mm in height to the stylus tip (as does the Ortofon 2M Red which I also used) whereas the Rega is about 13mm. If you’re able, I’d be interested to hear what you think of the E3 without spacers on the Rega. I have heard, more recently, that the Rega with a taller cart works fine and all of this spacer malarky is not what it’s cracked up to be. Haven’t tested the theory myself, though…
I haven’t tested the E3 with the 2100, I’m afraid. Both are excellent on their own, I know that. I would go for the best deal.
Peter Bower
4th January 2018 at 11:13 amHi Paul, I have an AT-LP5 deck with a AT95E fitted as standard, great sound and clarity from the AT95E but I was wondering if the Goldtring E3 would be a good up grade or would it just be a side ways move, or one of the new AT VM series around the same price or even an Nagaoke MP-110?
Paul Rigby
4th January 2018 at 3:47 pmTo be honest? The better upgrade would be the turntable itself. Are the LP5’s features very important to you or is sound quality the main thing? If it’s sound, then I would head for a Rega Planar 3 or a decent Pro-Ject at a low price than the Rega. Pro-Ject can also offer the same toys as the AT but done so in a far more elegant and socially superior fashion.
Alan Kirschbaum
9th February 2018 at 2:18 amHi Paul
How would this work with a Thorens TD 160 and a SME3009 arm? I was thinking a 2m blue, but the local shop is recommending the 3E.
Paul Rigby
9th February 2018 at 8:40 amHmmm, I would venture to say that the E3 has a more insightful midrange than the Red/Blue engine. It’s close but you’d be saving cash going for the E3 and you won’t be disappointed. To be honest, though, I wonder if your under-selling the deck. Unless cash is the issue, I’d go for something better than both. A 2M Black, for example.
Alan Kirschbaum
9th February 2018 at 5:30 pmHi Paul
Thanks for getting back to me so quickly. Sadly it is a cash issue. The shop, Planet of Sound in Toronto, is very honest. They were suggesting the Goldring 1006. I was thinking the Nogoaka MP 150 (a tad cheaper than the 1006). The rest of the system is an original Rega Brio and Totem Mites. Great soundstage, imaging and detail. Are we talking a noticeable difference between E3 and the more expensive cartridges?
Paul Rigby
9th February 2018 at 5:59 pmHi Alan – If cash is the thing then the E3 is the best budget cart out there for the price. It also worries higher priced models so, yep, go for that. Here’s a review link, in case you need it: https://theaudiophileman.com/goldring-e3/
Alan Kirschbaum
9th February 2018 at 6:58 pmHi Paul
Thanks for thinking about my budget. Last email. If there was an appreciable difference between the Goldring E3 and the Goldring 1006 or the MP 150 I would go for the better cartridge. I don’t have your experience in this area. My TD 160 currently has an ortofon VMS with a third party stylus on it. Any of the above would be an improvement.
Paul Rigby
10th February 2018 at 12:41 pmAll good quality carts – go for the MP150 if you can afford it, Alan.
Brian
20th April 2018 at 5:13 pmhello Paul,
Nice review. I was looking at replacing the cartridge on my Pro-ject Debut Carbon Esprit SB DC turntable and had been looking at putting a 2M Blue on to replace the stock 2M Red. But then I started reading about the Goldring 3E and it sounds like it produces a nicer sound for roughly the same cost.
I’m not sure if you’ve used the table I have or not, but would you recommend the 2M Blue or the Goldring 3E or would that table benefit more from a slightly pricier cartridge like the 2M Bronze or the Dynavector DV-10X5 or Denon DL-110? I am just not sure at what point the cartridge just won’t make that big of a difference and a new table is the way to go.
For example, assuming I win the lottery, would a Koetsu Blue Lace Onyx Platinum cartridge (a $22,000 cartridge) be completely pointless in the Pro-ject Debut Carbon Esprit SB DC (a $600 table)? I imagine so, so I also expect there to be some upper limit with the table and likely tonearm. But I’m still relatively new to all this stuff and just want things to sound nicer.
Paul Rigby
20th April 2018 at 5:33 pmThanks for your kind comments Brian and you’re spot on in terms of limits. Hence, for your turntable, I’d avoid MC carts. I don’t think the Esprit’s bearings can cope. I prefer the E3 to the Red but the Blue *should* really be better still (although I have yet to compare the two). Try to seek a demo, if you can.
Felipe
17th May 2018 at 7:51 pmHi Paul,
Thank you for your thorough and great review of the E3.
I’m having a bit of “dilemma”. I currently run a AT440mla which I love for its tracking but also which I don’t love so much for its thin sound.
Been reading about the Goldring 1042 and the 2500 because I’m looking for a microline stylus on a cartridge that produces a “fatter” sound than the AT. I like the AT a lot, but it can be too bright sometimes.
But reading your review about the E-3 and listening to some videos of it on YouTube (of course I know it’s not ideal) I was amazed with the sound quality and the punchiness of the cart.
I know that I would be downgrading from a stylus tip point of view, since the microline is much more refined than the ellyptical.
So my question is: how does the E3 track? Do you think that, being used to the at440mla, I would suffer too much with sibilance?
Thanks for any advice!
Have a great day.
Paul Rigby
18th May 2018 at 3:49 pmHi Felipe – I had no issues in tracking or sound quality or brightness with the E3. I would heartily recommend it. That said, you’re At is, what £200? What is your budget for the new cart?
Felipe
30th May 2018 at 11:34 pmHi Paul, thank you very much for your answer! My original budget is around 300 pounds, but if someone actually guaranteed me that either the 1042 or the 2500 track as well as the 440mla with a fuller sound, I’d definitely be willing to spend a little more.
Good to know you had no tracking issues with the E3, as it seems to me a very good option if I don’t want to spend as much. “problem” is that I have a lot of old records which sound lovely with the microline stylus of the 440. And I’m afraid I’ll have that dreadful IGD back with an ellyptical… What do you think? did you have the chance to play any old record with the E3? How did it go?
Thank you so much!
Paul Rigby
31st May 2018 at 9:26 amMost of my collection are old records, Felipe 🙂 There’s more to tracking than just the stylus tip shape. The entire design plays a part so please don’t make a judgement based purely on the ‘tip’. For example, here’s a very expensive cart which showed tracking issues but the overall design of the cart was the issue: https://theaudiophileman.com/van-den-hul/
For £300 – this example with a nude fine line stylus might be one to consider: https://www.henleyaudio.co.uk/products/2M-Bronze?DepartmentIds=1&BrandIds=1
Felipe
10th July 2018 at 10:56 pmThank you very much for your enlightening answer, Paul! Yes, maybe I’ve been worrying too much about the tip and not so over the whole cart. I considered the Bronze in the past, but I’ve already had three ortofons and didn’t like them very much, the 2M red on my table was a disaster… OF COURSE the bronze is another league, I’m sure, it must track as well as the AT. But after viewing lots of reviews and forums – and I know I’m changing my original opinion here, but… what do you think of the Goldring 100 series? I’ve just watched a video of the 1006 and even though it’s the “budget” elliptical only (my mistake again!) of the line, it sounded very cool and apparently tracking well. So what do you think> The 1042 seems to be a beast, but also very expensive. Should I try something like the 1006 or 1012? Have you had any experience with those carts? Thanks again!!
Paul Rigby
11th July 2018 at 10:44 amI would get the most expensive cart on that list that you can afford, Felipe. They are all good and have increasing abilities governed by cost so you need to discuss the issue with your wallet 🙂
Joel
6th June 2018 at 8:51 amThanks for the review. I’m also interested in knowing about the spacer question. Don’t want to mess with them if not necessary.
In the US, the E3 is $175, which is just shy of an Ortofon 2M Blue. The Blue uses a nude elliptical vs. a bonded elliptical on the E3. So at least on this side of the Atlantic, it’s probably not price-competitive. But sounds like a good deal for you guys.
Paul Rigby
6th June 2018 at 11:06 amHi Joel
I tried the E3 on a Rega and used spacers during my review because the E3 spans around 18mm in height to the stylus tip (as does the Ortofon 2M Red which I also used) whereas the Rega cart is about 13mm. If you’re able, I’d be interested to hear what you think of the E3 without spacers on the Rega. I have heard, more recently, that the Rega with a taller cart works fine without spacers and, for a turntable at that price, all of this spacer malarky is not what it’s cracked up to be. Haven’t tested the theory myself, though…
In addition to the above, Rega does say this, “Arm height or V.T.A adjustment can be a controversial subject. Rega believes that the integrity of the arm fixing onto the arm mounting board is much more important than the questionable facility of arm adjustment. The arm should be reasonably parallel to the record surface or slightly lower at the mounting. The only time a spacer is necessary to raise the arm height is if the rear of a cartridge is hitting the record whilst playing.”
Hence, Rega is saying that spacers don’t really matter. Or that spacers are not as important in their arms as many users think they are.
I’m 99% sure that the E3 does *not* hit the record so, if you follow Rega’s advice, buy an E3 and forget all about the spacers. If the spacer is important to you, check out this link: http://www.rega.co.uk/arm-height-adjustment-spacer.html.
Erkan
10th July 2018 at 12:36 pmHi Paul thanks for the review, excellent insight of this cartridge, totally sold and will be buying one. I will be replacing it with my 4 year old AT100E which is good but wanted something new for the price, but also it will go on my 1978/79 Pioneer PL-514X which i will not be upgrading now as its still a lovely entry vintage turntable. I also want to buy a new separate phono stage that will replace my Cambridge Audio Topaz SR20 with built in phono stage which also is good but need to turn up the knob fully to get a decent sound. My question is (if you can help me) which phono stage would you recommend for the Goldring E3: Cambridge Audio CP1 or Edwards Audio Apprentice MM?
Paul Rigby
10th July 2018 at 3:17 pmMany thanks Erkan – what’s your budget for the phono?
Erkan
11th July 2018 at 10:37 amHey paul thanks for the reply. My budget is £100 hence why I have been looking at the cambridge audio cp1 and edward’s audio apprentice mm.
Paul Rigby
11th July 2018 at 10:50 amHi Erkan – both are nice but also factor in the Rega Fono: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rega-Fono-Mini-A2D-Pre-Amplifier-black/dp/B0072RZ95U
Erkan
11th July 2018 at 11:18 amThanks!!! The Rega looks nice and has an input capacitance of 100pF bit less than Edwards Audio..Hmmm which one to choose ? LOL
Paul Rigby
11th July 2018 at 11:40 amBoth are good – I’d lean towards the Rega a bit, though.
Erkan
11th July 2018 at 11:44 amThanks Paul, much appreciated. Nice chatting to you and Keep up the excellent reviews, one of the best i have seen. All the best.
Erkan
Paul Rigby
11th July 2018 at 12:25 pmMany thanks Erkan.
Erkan
11th July 2018 at 12:04 pmHey Paul one last thing. If i was to push the price range up a bit, what do you think about the Schiit Mani?
Paul Rigby
11th July 2018 at 12:26 pmHere’s my thoughts Erkan: https://theaudiophileman.com/schitt-mani/
Erkan
11th July 2018 at 1:54 pmAgain thanks for the review Paul i might just pay a bit more and buy the Schiit Mani as I’m sure it is a bit more robust and powerful phono stage compared to Rega Fono.
Paul Rigby
11th July 2018 at 2:20 pmIt is top quality, I agree.
Erkan
25th July 2018 at 6:21 pmHey paul just one more question and I won’t bother you too much again lol. Ok so I have a 1979 Pioneer pl-514x which I bought 5 years ago refurbished and still sounding great with a Audio Technica AT100E cartridge I fitted. After reading your review on this Goldring cartridge I want to upgrade to it as I find the AT100E bit too bright. Is it worth it upgrading to the Goldring E3 and fitting it on my vintage pioneer or buying a brand new turntable altogether?
Paul Rigby
26th July 2018 at 1:05 pmHi Erkan – I’m unfamiliar with the sound of the Pioneer but I do know that it’s not the best deck in the world. A Planar 3 is superior, for example. That said, if you like your Pioneer, then stick with it, by all means. Your enjoyment is the main thing here.
Are you sure the cart is the cause of the brightness, incidentally? Your comment surprises me.
Botton line? I would stick with what you have and save any serious cash for a turntable/cart upgrade further down the line. If you want to enhance the performance of the Pioneer, I would look at mods including isolation feet, platter mat, stabiliser, etc.
Nuno Baptista
13th July 2018 at 10:16 pmHello Paul,
I´m looking after a new cartridge for my Rega Planar 2. So far I´m looking after the Nagaoka MP 110, the Shure M97XE and the Goldring E3. Which one is the best?My dealer says that the Shure is better than the Nagaoka, but doesn´t know the Goldring.
Paul Rigby
14th July 2018 at 12:09 pmThanks for your question Nuno. The E3, the latest cart in your list, is the best available cartridge for £100 and under. I’d go for that one.
Eduardo Ferreira Lelis
14th July 2018 at 9:16 pmHello Paul, I’m from Brazil and here things are not so accessible. I have a Gemini XT1800 Q II, and I’m thinking of upgrading to a Nagaoka MP110 or ebay buy a Goldring E3, what I recommend to do, change the Turntable and which of the cartridges you recommend. connected on a Yamaha A-S501.
Tks
Paul Rigby
15th July 2018 at 11:07 amThanks for the question, Eduardo. I would not upgrade the cartridge for the Gemini, though. I’d strongly recommend upgrading the turntable first.
Tomas
4th August 2018 at 9:23 pmHello Paul, and thanks for the review and all the info. Great job.
I have the Onkyo CP1050 turntable with the Goldring E3 and the sound is really amazing, i’m discovering new details on my old vinyls. I’m using a Yamaha AS-1100 amp with Monitor Audio Silver2 loudspeakers.
I’m just curious about the next step on sound quality, which cartridge-stylus? Have i reached top sound quality with this turntable? What do you think?
Thanks in advance
Paul Rigby
5th August 2018 at 11:28 amThanks for your kind words Tomas and yes, you’re right, the next stage is a turntable upgrade I reckon. Save your cash for something up around £700-£1,000. When you get there, let me know and we’ll chat.
Tomas
5th August 2018 at 4:29 pmThanks for your reply, Paul.
I bought the Onkyo turntable 2 months ago, and i’d like to extract all of its juice for some years, I’m really happy with it, i think it is a great product for the price.
So i was thinking of giving a try to one of these stylus when the E3 get worn out:
– Ortofon 2M Bronze or Goldring G-1042 as MM.
– Audio-Technica ATF7 or Denon DL-103R as MC.
So do you think any of this options isn’t worth a try? Is my best option keep replacing the E3 with the same?
Thanks again.
Paul Rigby
5th August 2018 at 6:03 pmAhhh, well, that’s different then 🙂 I would go for the 1042 and stop there. I’d save your MC upgrade for a better deck. Saying that, the 1042 is a top quality MM cart and fights its corner well against low priced MC carts.
Make sure you have an external phono amp.
Look at where you’ve sited the deck. Make sure it’s on quality shelving.
Upgrade the cables, QED provide good value – the best you can afford.
Detach and remove the lid during play (removes lid vibrations) and then freely place it on the plinth to keep the dust out when not in play.
Consider a stabiliser (removes bearing noise) to fit over the spindle. HRS is excellent but not cheap. There’s a few more on my site in the accessories section.
Upgrade the headshell (do this before you buy the Goldring – Timestep offer a classy option, enhances rigidity): https://theaudiophileman.com/t-01hs-ebony-headshell-timestep-review/
Add isolation feet under the plinth. Again, removes veiling noise.
You can do all of this over time, when funds allow but that should keep you occupied for a year or two 🙂
I’m off on my holidays for a week now. If you ask further questions, I’m afraid they won’t be answered for a week or more. Good luck with the upgrades!
Tomas
5th August 2018 at 6:39 pmMany many thanks, no more questions, i’ll follow your advices, they sound as excellent choice.
Thanks again and enjoy holidays!!!
Mark Robinson
12th August 2018 at 2:45 amI have a Vintage Pioneer PL-600 in excellent knick and would like to know if you would recommend the E3 for it.
Regards Mark
Paul Rigby
12th August 2018 at 1:58 pmHi Mark
Is this the earlier direct drive model or the later belt drive model?
Amal Kr De
17th August 2018 at 8:26 amHi, Paul. Thanks for your excellent review of E3 and just in time when I am thinking to upgrade my old AT311EP MM stylus. I am from India and using very old Indian turntable (30 years old). The turntable is still in very good condition and enjoying vinyl sound from it. Only down side of this table is that it has no height adjustment provision and tall cart may pose problem due to rear of the tall cart may hit record while playing. My present AT311EP cart has only 1mm gap from record surface to rear of the cart. I am using recommended VTF of 1.25gm. As the E3 is tall cart and its height is 18mm to the stylus tip I am little bit worry of upgrading to excellent E3 cart. Currently I am not in the mood of upgrading my turntable. Kindly advice.Thanks.
Paul Rigby
17th August 2018 at 9:58 amThanks for the query Amal – I find it odd that most cartridge manufacturers don’t readily supply dimensions to their carts, very odd. Hence, because I don’t have a AT311EP to hand, I cannot measure it for you. Looking at it, though, I would say that the E3 is larger. How it would sit on your turntable is, I’m afraid, a bit of a mystery. You may be ok but you’d have to borrow a sample to find out. If you are at all nervous about it, though, then you might want to look at an Ortofon 2M Blue or AT VM520EB.
Amal Kr De
17th August 2018 at 12:26 pmThanks Paul for your quick reply. My cart AT 311EP measurs 20 mm from top of headshell (headshell 1.5mm thk) to stylus tip. Regarding 2M blue, all 2M series carts have same vertical dims i. e 18mm from top of headshell to stylus tip. Don’t know about other you mentioned. Disappointed for E3. Anyway thanks for suggestion. Amal
Paul Rigby
17th August 2018 at 1:00 pmOf course! I should have asked you to measure it for me. Forgive my dozy reply. Well, you’re in luck because the E3 measures 18mm to the stylus tip. So you should be fine! (Or 19.5mm inc headshell).
Amal Kr De
17th August 2018 at 2:22 pmThanks again for quick reply. Glad to know that I can still use E3. However my advice from you, how the Goldring Elektra cart! It has great reputation among budget audiophiles. Thanks. Amal
Paul Rigby
17th August 2018 at 3:28 pmI would prefer the E3.
John Garnet
23rd August 2018 at 8:25 amHi Paul,
I’ve been a hi-fi ‘nut’ for over 56 years; thanks for your accurate review of the E3 – I can report your conclusions concur with mine. I installed my E3 tracking at 2g on a much modified Rega P1 (2016) including a replacement Rega RB202 tonearm and a 3mm cork mat. I can confirm that no spacers were required to result in a completely level tonearm. I currently use a Denon AVR-X6200’s built-in phono stage into Q Acoustic 3020s via QED silver cabling, and the result is exquisite. Thank you for your continued and valuable contributions to hi-fi journalism.
Fraser Campbell
3rd September 2018 at 8:55 pmGoldring E3 Cartridge.
Hi Paul,
Thanks for an informative and excellent review. I am seriously thinking of investing in the Goldring after watching the latest HiVinyl review on Youtube (Grado Presstige Black 2 vs Goldring E3). I love the Grado sound and have Gold Prestige 1. I would have thought the Grado would have a deeper, cleaner, more extended / controlled bass, but it seems the Goldring was the champ. Also, it seems there maybe a ‘quality control’ issue with the Grado’s with either skewed cantilevers or one channel completely dead. What’s your opinion on the Grado Black / Green vs Goldring E3? I love a rich, warm sound with an expressive midrange, smooth detailed extended treble, and strong deep articulate bass.
Regards,
Fraser Campbell.
Paul Rigby
4th September 2018 at 12:48 pmI wish I could provide comprehensive information on this one and apologise that I cannot. I have yet to do a thorough review of the Grados (they obviously need to be on my review list). I’ve heard them and they sound nice but I haven’t done a proper test. I do know that the E3 is excellent but I am personally not sure how it measures against the Grados. Again, my apologies.
Fraser Campbell
5th September 2018 at 12:02 amHi Paul,
Many thanks for your response. I look forward to your reviews of the Grado cartridges.
Regards
Fraser Campbell
John Garnet
7th September 2018 at 1:12 amHi again Paul,
Is there any chance of pairing your E3 with a Tisbury Audio Domino Phono Pre-amp for a combined review? From all accounts they should be a synergistic match made in heaven…
Paul Rigby
7th September 2018 at 9:45 amHi John – Indeed. I thought a review sample was on the way but everything went a bit quiet and I know not why. Thanks for the nudge.
John Garnet
7th September 2018 at 12:27 pm…another item I meant to suggest for appraisal was LP Gear’s Carbon replacement stylus CFN3600LE for the ubiquitous Rega Carbon – the carbon cantilever, fitted with a fine-line elliptical stylus in lieu of the conical, transforms this cart into something really special! Assuming you have access to a Carbon body, I can let you borrow a new one I was saving – as long as you promise to return it post review of course…
Paul Rigby
7th September 2018 at 1:28 pmThanks John – the loan shouldn’t be necessary though. Many thanks for the offer, though 🙂
John Garnet
2nd September 2020 at 11:10 amHi once more Paul,
Carrying on from our Sept. 2018 chat, after a while upon a foolish impulse I sold my E3 to fund a G1042 – and eventually wished I hadn’t. I am currently in the process of purchasing another E3, and wonder if you can remember from your original review which alignment details including nulls you used to achieve the sound you so eloquently describe… copying being the sincerest form of flattery…
Paul Rigby
2nd September 2020 at 12:01 pmHi John – I *think* I was checking out a paper-based gauge from Polaris at the time. So may have used that. A quick Google should locate it.
John Garnet
6th September 2020 at 10:41 amThanks Paul, I’m unfamiliar with Polaris, but will Google as suggested.
John Garnet
3rd February 2022 at 10:31 amHi Paul.
Belated reply/update herewith; Polaris traced and resultant sound found wanting. Following several months trying nearly every protractor in the known hifi world I have eventually discovered my ideal – and I so wish I had discovered it prior to selling on my G1042…
My current table is a modified P3 using an aluminium sub-platter, upgraded belt, P6 counterweight, and replacement acrylic table, using a Rega NEO MK3 PSU. A P6 in all but table base material.
I modified a Vinyl Engine downloadable standard Rega single point 58.6mm arc protractor, reducing the arc to 58mm dead. The result was all four of my carts (and my ears) have benefitted from the very best reproduction I have ever achieved in 60 years continuous hifi tinkering, and when you get time I urge you to consider trying this alignment for yourself for a couple of hours – you’ll never really know if you’re getting the very best out of your test equipment unless you do…
Keep up the good work Paul.
Paul Rigby
3rd February 2022 at 10:40 amThanks John – I’ll certainly check it out.
Nuno
16th September 2018 at 12:36 pmHello Paul,
I have the chance to buy an Áudio Técnica VM530EN for 100€.What you think?Or should I spend 120€ instead and buy the Goldring e3?What is my best choice?
Paul Rigby
16th September 2018 at 7:27 pmAt that price – go for the 530.
Pjotr
5th October 2018 at 2:14 pmHello Paul,
Recently I bought vintage Siemens turntable, which was made by Micro seiki back in the eighties. It uses quality S-shaped tonearm, I think the exact one you can find on Micro seiki DD1 model. It is strong and solid made direct-drive deck. Now I have an idea to put a Goldring cartridge on it but I don`t know if E series would be any better than my current Shure M44-7. I am also interested in Goldring 2100. What can you recommend?
Paul Rigby
5th October 2018 at 2:41 pmHi Pjotr – what’s the model number of the turntable, may I ask?
Josh
6th November 2018 at 7:04 pmHi Paul, this is great. Your original review is excellent and I really value the questions from other readers and your generous responses. I purchased my E3 in part on the recommendation of your original review and have been extremely impressed. It was an upgrade from the Ortofon 2M Red that came installed on my Rega P1. I’m now looking at purchasing a Thorens TD160 with a TP16 (rewired but no cartridge) and trying to determine whether to move the Goldring over to that rig or try something else (I will sell my Rega either with the Goldring or will install a budget cart). I have a friend with an unopened 2M Black that he is offering to me for a very good price but not sure if it’s the right pairing for the Thorens. Any advice? Thanks.
Alexander
19th December 2018 at 4:13 pmHi Paul! Your review is helpful and very comprehensive! Thanks! Maybe I’ve missed something: can’t find the information about the height of “E” series, particularly of E3. Would you be so kind to help me get this data. Yours faithfuly…
Paul Rigby
19th December 2018 at 5:32 pmHi Alexander, thanks for your question. 18mm to the stylus tip – give or take 🙂
Alexander
20th December 2018 at 8:25 amThank you very much, Paul!
Stephen
22nd January 2019 at 11:35 amHi Paul
Great review. I was looking for a new cartridge under £100 as I no longer wanted to pay £250 for a cartridge I previously owned VM540ML, a superb cartridge and I am under no illusions that the E3 could better it, just want a solid performer. So I came across your review as I have been interested in the Goldring new E series. I bought the cartridge on the strength of your review and all I can say is many thanks for the push.
I was concerned about the talk of the E3 been just a dressed up AT95e as I really don’t like that cartridge at all. But I had no need to worry because it sounds nothing like the AT95e at all.
It sounds wonderful and I am so pleased with it and I managed to get it for £77 free postage from Juno music.
Thanks again.
Paul Rigby
22nd January 2019 at 11:44 amGreat stuff, Stephen – glad I could be of help 🙂
Larry Hoffman
11th February 2019 at 5:43 amHi Paul,
I would appreciate your opinion regarding an upgrade. I have a new generation Rega P2 with the Bias II cartridge installed. I’ve heard many say it’s not nearly as good as many others in it’s price range and am interested in upgrading it. I was interested in Either the Nagaoka MP-110 or MP-150. Been told the 150 would be a good one for it, but the price, especially in Canada, is too high for my budget. The Goldring E3 looks very interesting and I would like to know if it would be a better bet than the Nagaoka MP-110, which gets rave reviews.Would either be a substantial upgrade for the Bias II in your estimation? Any problems with the RB220 arm?
Thanks for your advice,
Larry
Paul Rigby
11th February 2019 at 1:33 pmThanks for your question Larry. The Bias II is good, I’d say that the E3 is better and I like the 110 but they all live in the same world. Changing to a 110 or E3 would be, essentially, a sideways step. Instead, I would look seriously at a Goldring 1042 which should provide a step up in terms of sonic detail. Then, the next step would be a turntable upgrade. Depends what you pick but the Goldring may be a good bet for that upgrade too – at least initially.
Larry Hoffman
12th February 2019 at 6:45 pmThanks Paul,
Only problem with the 1042 is the cost. It’s well over $400.00 Canadian, in Nagaoka Mp-150 territory. I was hoping to stay in the $300.00 to $350.00 range. I may have to watch for sales for one of those two. What is your opinion of the Nag MP-150 vs the Goldring 1042? I may hold off untill I have the $$ for one of those, or can find it on sale. Also, what are your thoughts on upgrading the subplatter first.
Thank you for your advice!!!
Larry
Paul Rigby
13th February 2019 at 11:41 amI would look at an Ortofon 2M Blue, which is the upgrade from a 2M Red. That should hopefully fall within your budget, Larry. Try that first before the platter.
Larry Hoffman
15th February 2019 at 4:00 pmThank you Paul!!!!
Paul Rigby
17th February 2019 at 11:27 amNot a problem Larry.
Kingshuk Niyogy
22nd November 2019 at 9:24 amHi, I have a question… I already have a Goldring E2 installed in my turntable. Can I swap the E2 stylus with an E3?
Paul Rigby
22nd November 2019 at 9:31 amI would guess not Kingshuk but let me ask Goldring to confirm – be back ASAP.
Kingshuk Niyogy
13th March 2020 at 11:43 amAny updates Paul? Thanks!
Paul Rigby
13th March 2020 at 11:52 amSorry, somehow missed this question – let me go ask Goldring. Be back ASAP.
Paul Rigby
13th March 2020 at 12:35 pmAnd the answer is “yes!”, yes you can upgrade.
Kingshuk Niyogy
13th March 2020 at 12:41 pmThat’s awesome! Thank you so much for finding that out.
Dennis
17th December 2019 at 1:56 pmHi Paul
I do appreciate your knowledge on cartridges. I recently bought a vintage Marantz 6100 turntable in perfect condition. It came with a Shure 70EJ. The guy told me probably the stylus might need replacement soon. So I thought why not change the whole cartridge instead and the Goldring E3 seems to be a very good one. Do you think it is a good match? Do you think that Shure 70EJ can be superior to the E3?
Paul Rigby
17th December 2019 at 2:19 pmAbsolutely, Dennis. Go for the E3.
Marian
27th December 2019 at 10:18 pmGood day. Is the E3 suitable for light arms? (Static compliance20 mm / N). How many hours can the needle play?
Marian from Poland
Paul Rigby
28th December 2019 at 6:02 pmHi Marian – what turntable are you looking at? Stylus life…depends. Depends on how often you use it, how well you take care of your records because dirty grooves will add to wear, how well you keep your stylus clean (ditto), etc. If you take care of your kit, then many hundred of hours.
Marian
28th December 2019 at 9:09 pmGood day. I have a telefunken cs 20. The ORTOFON LMA 12 was originally (very light). I am currently using AT13EAV (6.6 g) with a counterweight of over 90 g and it’s fine, but the stylus is running low and I’m thinking of the Goldring E3. I think it should match.
Paul Rigby
29th December 2019 at 2:03 pmHow fascinating! A two-motor direct drive isn’t it? Before I get to your question, tell me more about it please. How did you come across it and can you tell me more about its sound performance? I haven’t laid my hands on a cs 20 so cannot offer firm advice but, from the info I can find, you *should* be ok. Might be an idea to check the returns policy of your chosen retailer and explain your situation, in case you need to request a swop for a different cartridge model.
Marian
1st January 2020 at 8:29 amThank you Paul for any advice. My set is telefunken cs 20, Rotel RX 300, RFT k13 profile and RFT Rema speakers. As you can see the whole set from the olden days, but the game is delicious. I will do as you say. I’ll get along for a replacement if it doesn’t match. I greet you, Paul, and wish you all the best in the New Year.
Paul Rigby
1st January 2020 at 10:23 amThanks Marian – I hope you have a lovely New Year too.
Frank Friis Jensen
20th February 2020 at 7:26 amHi Paul,
Just bought a Thorens TD 126 MK II and want to replace/renew the cartridge (Grado Prestige Black).
It’s not only a matter of money, but also what does this TT deserve?
It is at this moment for service/adjustment and the dealer recommends a Ortofon 2M Black – I’m aware of it’s capabilities, but with a price of € 600 I’m in doubt if it will be the right thing to do taken into consideration, that I do not all the times listen intensively when I play my records. Sometimes, I just put a record on and play it as background. Your opinion is appreciated.
Taking the above into consideration, questions are what would you recommend:
Renew the Grado ?
Go for a E3 ?
Go for 2 M Black ?
Other ?
Paul Rigby
20th February 2020 at 9:51 amHi Frank – if you’re willing to spend a bit on this one then the Goldring 2500 would be ideal as its high compliance for that arm of yours.
Frank Friis Jensen
20th February 2020 at 5:01 pmHi Paul. Thanks a lot for your prompt reply – I’ll look into it. Probably this is a good choice
Frank Friis Jensen
22nd February 2020 at 10:28 amHi Paul. A friend suggested Benz Micro MC Silver as an option (using the mm riaa in my amplifier (Micromega AI 180) – do you beleive it would go well with that amp. and the arm on the TD 126 MK II?
Paul Rigby
23rd February 2020 at 11:43 amYour choice, of course Frank but I have heard that the compliance is only moderate on this one (can’t find all the specs on this one myself) so I’d probably say no.
Frank Friis Jensen
23rd February 2020 at 5:10 pmHi Paul. Thanks a lot for your swift reply. I’ll skip the Benz. Have a nice day
Simon
12th March 2020 at 4:17 pmHi Paul, great site.
Would the E3 cartridge be overkill for an ‘all stock’ Rega P1? It seems an affordable potential option but a sanity check never hurts. Also, as you mentioned the size of the cartridge, (its also heavier than the stock cartridge by about 1g), would it even be feasible with a static tonearm with little to no adjustment available? Thanks.
Paul Rigby
13th March 2020 at 11:37 amThanks Simon and an E3 would be a good idea. Installation should fine.
Panos
28th April 2020 at 5:30 pmHello and thank you for the interesting information.I am using the e1 cartridge and i am generally pleased.You think upgrading to e3 will make a great difference? Thanks in advance!
Paul Rigby
28th April 2020 at 5:47 pmIndeed Panos – the E3 features an elliptical tip instead of the E1’s spherical. The elliptical tip will deliver more information for you.
Nuno Baptista
23rd November 2020 at 11:33 pmHello Paul,
I have a Planar 2 and the Rega dealer here sells Goldring,- Do you know the Goldring 1006?Is it much better than the E3? A friend of mine prefer the E serie to the most epensive serie 1000.
Paul Rigby
24th November 2020 at 10:54 amHi Nuno – I hear what you’re saying about your friend but I wouldnt really like to compare the two because the 1006 is what, double the price of the E3? I haven’t compared the two but I know the 1042 sound and the 1006 is in and around that same family presentation. I love the E3 but I’d always go for a 1006. Actually…no, I wouldn’t. I would skip the 1006, save a bit more and go for the 1042.
Stephen Lovell-Davis
21st January 2021 at 8:49 amHi Paul,
Thanks for the comprehensive review. I am thinking of putting this cartridge on my SME 3009, which sits on a Thorens TD125, to replace an elderly Audio Technica AT95E (unless you reply saying ‘for God’s sake, no!’) and wondered if I should replace the standard SME headshell which seems a little flimsy. Needless to say, I am on a budget, so I would appreciate your thoughts on how much difference it would make. What is the headshell shown in the photographs? The rest of the system, in case it is relevant, is an A & R A60 driving Heybrook HB2s.
Thanks in advance,
Steve
Paul Rigby
21st January 2021 at 9:53 amYes, good idea Stephen. On both counts. Headshells vary in price and quality so it would depend on your budget.
Eduard
1st March 2021 at 7:19 pmHi Paul!
Thank you for the great review, would like to buy a Teac TN 4D and replace the cartridge it comes with(Sumiko Oyster) with the E3 , would it be a good combo for the money?
Thanks
Eduard
Paul Rigby
2nd March 2021 at 10:35 amI’ve never reviewed this design – I did ask for a Teac turntable to be reviewed once and was turned down, the company wasn’t releasing any review samples…to anyone. I found the odd. But I digress. Yes, the E3 should be fine.
Eduard
2nd March 2021 at 7:17 pmThank you for your quick answer, i found the Teac to be a good value(at least on paper), wanted to go for the Reloop Turn 5 which is very interesting option but more expensive.
George Anastasopoulos
29th November 2021 at 11:16 pmI bought a new Goldring E2 Phono Cartridge; and very recently a Goldring E3 Stylus. I may mount the Goldring on my harman kardon T25 belt drive turntable. Or I was thinking maybe mounting the Goldring E3 on my used Rega Planar 3, silicone drive belt, and Linn Basik Plus tonearm. However, for now it’s got a new AT95E MM cartridge that I exactly mounted.
Rega Planar 3 was changed from the previous owner; and fortunately I found the Linn tonearm that has the mounting distance of 211mm – from centre’s spindle to tonearm pivot’s centre to fit. Previous owner drilled the hole for the tonearm’s post to that measurement of 211mm, instead of Rega’s 222mm; which I thought, and believed that it was that measurement! Therefore, I went to a lot of work to make this turntable function!
At present is an Audio Technica AT70 cartridge on the hk T25 turntable. Going to replace with a new ATN70 from a new ATN71 I previously installed. I’m doing experiments with the sound of music to a HK TD212 Cassette Deck, too (I have a HK TD302 Deck, but it broke down).
In your expert opinion what is the best turntable of preference, and especially tonearm for the Goldring E3 cartridge in my case, Paul? Is it the Harman Kardon T25, or the Rega Planar 3 with the used Linn Basik Plus tonearm that’s in good condition? Thank you for any sound advice.
Paul Rigby
30th November 2021 at 9:39 amHi George – I’d go for the Rega.
Chris Altree
1st February 2022 at 11:46 pmHi Paul,
I bought a Technics SL 1200 kitted out for a DJ (Ortofon Concorde cartridge/Night Club stylus) which I want to convert to a more audiophile-friendly system. I’ve heard good things about both the Goldring E3 and the Ortofon 2M Blue – which cartridge would you recommend? My records are in good condition, mainly 60s/70s recordings.
Thanks,
Chris
Paul Rigby
2nd February 2022 at 10:20 amThe Blue is the better model of the two – but it should be at around twice the price. The E3 is the best cart around the £100 area.
Chris Altree
2nd February 2022 at 3:01 pmThanks!
Chris Altree
14th February 2022 at 10:19 pmThought I’d let you know I went with the Blue and it sounds great! Thanks for the recommendation. I had to mount it on a new headshell so I picked up a $10 one on Amazon that looked OK, however it does not sit 100% horizontally on my SL 1200 tone arm. I can’t adjust the headshell as it screws into the tone arm and lines up with the pins, so I tried inserting a thin piece of plastic between the headshell and cartridge to even things out a bit, but the result wasn’t great. Wondering what you would do in this situation. Are there pre-made ‘spacers’ available that might work? Should I just get another headshell? Any advice welcome!
Thanks,
Chris
Paul Rigby
17th February 2022 at 10:59 amBuy a better headshell, Chris. Why fix it with a temporary Elastoplast solution when you really need to address the root of the issue? If your headshell is not performing properly then I would sort that first.
Chris Altree
19th February 2022 at 11:21 pmGot myself a decent Audio Technica, and with a bit of twisting everything is now set up perfectly. Thanks for the advice, Paul!