[clockman1954]

I'm running out of options to either restore or replace the magnetic cartridge in my Philco 48-1270, M-4 record player.  West Tech does not rebuild them and his other lead had none.  Does anyone have an idea of a replacment / retro-fit for this tone arm.  Has anyone ever done it?  Help appreciated ASAP.

[codefox1]

Shure M2 or replica might do, I reccolect it had to track less than 3 grams else become a plow.

[clockman1954]

I couldn't find any info on the Shure cartridge.  Is there an earlier or later cartridge used in Philco's that are easy to find that will transplant?

[ODPILOT]

Contact Gary Stork at V/M Music Enthusiasts: info@thevoiceofmusic.com www.thevoiceofmusic.com
he found a great replacement for me for my crystal cartridge for my 1954 B1750 phonograph. He is knowlegeable and helpful. The new, more modern cartridge sounds great and probably better than the original ever did. Good luck

[codefox1]

To clarify, there are many ceramic/crystal subs that can be used on vintage changers, but some of the later magnetic cartridges required much less tracking force, had different stylus dimensions, and would not always be otherwise suitable, as in needing preamps. Mid 50's stuff was just turning the corner in phono technology solidly into "microgroove" stuff. Tons of reeading on internet if you are interested. Stereo was next! Quad was stillborn.

Agree, contact specialists as stated above or make inquiries in classified inquiries to get something what will make the best of your equipment and records. You may want to make two "piles" of your records, those to play on vintage equipment, and those preserved for updated equipment.

[clockman1954]

So far everyone I've contacted has been a dead end for the M-4.  Why is this unit so "rare" compared to other tone arms?  I still need one if anyone has a spare!