Not a granular sprayed 3D print.
The Best Audio cart sled is injection molded. Examine the photos closely to see the incredibly sharp detail, and smooth texture - carefully designed to complement your table. Notice the reflection of the audio pins against the high gloss plastic.
Standard on all of our parts are permanently sealed gold plated spring pins for a pure audio signal, silver plated stranded copper wires with color matching insulation "to the tips", and solid copper split-barrel clips.
To attenuate any sound killing audio interference and/or hum, like the Dual original, our cartridge sled has a solid copper EMI shield extending up the sides of the cart sled. We can't help but notice another seller literally cut corners with respect to this original feature and he left the interior sides exposed.
We matched the material weight and physical dimension to the original Dual engineering design. Our shield further acts as a ground, via connection to the middle (ground) pin on the sled.
Why copper?
Although more expensive to source than the stamped brass seen on another seller's piece, our etched copper acts as an RFI shield. Why shield against radio waves? Because homes are surrounded by the radio waves we call Wi-Fi, not to mention your cellphone is actually a sophisticated radio - every incoming text or email is a radio wave transmission. Most homes are bombarded with both electromagnetic and radio waves, and we've neutralized both. In this regard, the Dual engineers were ahead of their time with respect to shielding, and we recreated their design.
What about 3D printed parts?
To borrow a phrase, "Just say no". 3D prints make for good prototypes, but are not suited for finished products. 3D prints cannot match the fine details found in injection molded parts, and are prone to deforming as the 3D part absorbs moisture. We found what we feel is design flaw in a competing product from another seller. In examining an open sphere meant to allow a press fit, we discovered the audio signal pins were far too loose for our standards. We dislodged one audio signal pin out of its placeholder with the flick of a fingernail (see graphic), and in our opinion, the sled is prone to failure.
You will love our injection molded TK12 cart sled, you're getting the best value for a quality piece or audio artwork.
Our cartridge holder should also fit: 1009-F, 1009-SK, 1010, 1010-F, 1015, and 1015F. Please note this cartridge holder will not fit the original 1009.
You are buying one cartridge holder, the Dual OEM version is shown for reference only. You have a choice, choose the best. Best Audio.
