Rockola 1426 cartridge question

Which would sound better on a
Rockola 1426?


The original astatic crystal cartridge? I do have this
And would have it rebuilt.

Or the pfienstiel 51-2 cartridge commonly used now
To replace the original?

I've read where the originals really sound great
In these machines. Would not mind having it rebuilt if
Sound would be superior.

Thanks!
George

I forgot to mention.. I'd like to play both original
And repro 78's.. Would a 2mil stylus in original
Cartridge be considered lightweight for the reproduction
78's?

Thanks again,

George

George,
I have used the new 51-2, two times on two different phonos--and both I, and my customers thought it sounded great--
I have read that others have not been happy with them ?
Ron Rich

Thanks Ron. Mainly just considering options.
The 51-2 was what I was going with until I ran across
A place that rebuilds the original astatic for $40.

Then recalled a couple articles where these original
Crystal cartridges really make the sound pop!

Also in my considerations are:

After rebuilding, could just plug back in, no modification
Necessary ( just my speed).

Unsure if the 51-2, would need modification to tonearm,
Such as holes drilled and such.

Availability of stylus for original astatic.

To put it simply, what would you do?

Appreciate the info
George

Hi George,
I am somewhat uncomfortable giving any advise in this area, as I have limited experience with 78 rpm phono's/records ( I'm not quite old enough--yet !). Hopefully someone with way more experience will chime in here !
As I understand it, records kept improving, as did the whole "reproduction" abilities. 78's made post WWW II, used a 3 mil grove, then a 2 mil grove, then a 1, and finally may, or may not, have a had a .7 mil grove. Also, as I understand it, the original maker of the "51" series carts/needles. followed the above, and added a (-) number to signify the needle size. As I wrote before, I have used the new LKG/Pfanstiehl "51" series, and been happy with it. I could not detect any audio difference between the two units--but then again, my hearing is no longer very good. If I re-call correctly (last one I did was some time ago), it was no problem to fit it into the tone arm. As for needle availability, LKG is still supplying both types, in all sizes, as far as I know---so the choice is yours-- .

Thanks Ron, that is helpful. I realized after re-reading
My post I was asking a very subjective question.

I'm just getting all my ducks in a row on this
1426 rebuild, and have been curious about this
Issue.

I may end up trying both cartridges and will let
You know which ( if either) turns out the winner!

Thanks again.

Merry Christmas to all!

George

George,
No problem--Please post your findings--
Merry Christmas to all !!