Goldring Ethos MC Cartridge

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Goldring Ethos stereo moving coil cartridge. Goldring appreciates your trust in their musical enjoyment. The Ethos cartridge is the primary component in the audio reproduction chain, directly contacting your vinyl collection. Each Ethos cartridge is hand-crafted and adjusted to faithfully reproduce the complete musical performance, from the largest dynamic transient to the smallest subtle nuance.

The hand-built GOL-1 generator, originally developed for a smooth and extended frequency response, has been re-engineered and improved to enhance its world-class reputation. This generator makes the Goldring Ethos a prime example of a true hi-fi cartridge: detailed, uncoloured, and enjoyable.

Design Features

• Line-contact stylus: Enables accurate retrieval of high-frequency detail.
• Alloy cantilever: Tuned for optimal trackability and ride height.
• Cross-shaped armature: Reduces moving mass and improves channel separation for a strong stereo image.
• Optimised suspension: New improved damper pad sets correct cartridge compliance to minimise mis-tracking and improve compatibility.
• Neodymium magnet: Light and powerful, providing a strong, uniform field for a more linear frequency response.
• Aluminium body shell: Rigidly couples the motor system to the tonearm for maximum information retrieval.

Cartridge Mounting

The Ethos cartridge is compatible with tonearms of effective mass 4-18 g, featuring standard 12.7 mm (0.5 in) headshell fixing centres. Remove the old cartridge before beginning. With the stylus guard in place, connect the colour-coded tonearm leads to the corresponding pins on the rear of the new cartridge:

• A = Cold Left (Blue)
• B = Hot Left (White)
• C = Cold Right (Green)
• D = Hot Right (Red)

Warning: Never solder headshell leads directly to the cartridge contact pins, as heat can cause irreversible damage to internal components.

Use only the provided socket head mounting screws. Select the shortest screws that ensure a secure fit. Insert screws from the top and loosely attach the cartridge to the headshell to allow for adjustment. The Ethos cartridge body has threaded mounting holes, so nuts are not required.

Diagram Illustration: Figure 1 shows the connection pins (A, B, C, D) on the cartridge rear and how the cartridge attaches to the headshell with screws. Figure 2 illustrates the screw attachment to the threaded mounting holes.

Cartridge Alignment

Refer to your tonearm manufacturer's instructions for precise cartridge positioning within the headshell. Correct alignment is crucial for optimal performance. A stylus protractor is recommended for setting the optimum overhang distance.

Ensure the cartridge's zenith angle and overhang distance are correctly set before tightening the mounting screws with the provided allen key. Avoid over-tightening to prevent damage.

Finally, set the cartridge's azimuth angle and vertical tracking angle (VTA) according to your tonearm manufacturer's instructions.

Diagram Illustrations:

• Figure 3 demonstrates zenith angle and overhang adjustment. The correct alignment is indicated with a checkmark (✔️), while incorrect angles are shown with crosses (❌). The diagram shows adjustments for side-to-side and vertical tilt.
• Figure 4 illustrates azimuth angle adjustment. The correct angle is marked with a checkmark (✔️), and incorrect angles with crosses (❌).
• Figure 5 illustrates vertical tracking angle (VTA) adjustment. The correct angle is marked with a checkmark (✔️), and incorrect angles with crosses (❌).

Playing Weight

The recommended playing weight for the Ethos cartridge is 1.75 g. Consult your tonearm manufacturer's instructions for the specific setup procedure. Remember to remove the stylus guard before setting the playing weight and refit it when not in use to prevent damage. Do not exceed the maximum specified playing weight.

Preamplifier Connections

The Ethos cartridge uses moving coil technology and must be connected to the MC input of your phono preamplifier. The load resistance can initially be set to 100 Ω and adjusted to fine-tune the cartridge's tone to your preference. Refer to your phono preamplifier manufacturer's instructions for guidance on load resistance adjustment.

Stylus Care

The stylus assembly is a delicate mechanism requiring utmost care to prevent damage. Steel objects, such as screwdrivers, are attracted by the cartridge's powerful magnet. Exercise extreme caution to prevent these objects from being drawn towards the stylus.

Stylus Replacement

Goldring styli are manufactured to the highest standards. It is vital to regularly check the stylus condition. A line-contact diamond stylus, with proper care, can last up to 1000 hours before wear affects performance. A damaged or worn stylus can cause irreparable damage to vinyl records and should be replaced immediately.

The Ethos cartridge features an integral stylus that cannot be replaced by the user. If your stylus is worn or damaged, consult your hi-fi dealer or contact Goldring directly via their website to arrange for factory replacement.

Technical Specification

Guarantee

This cartridge is guaranteed against electrical and mechanical faults for one year from the date of purchase. This guarantee does not cover worn styli and is invalidated if instructions are not followed or if any unauthorised modifications, repairs, or alterations are attempted.