Sound Advice: Lower-cost phono cartridge easy to upgrade

Q: I saw your recommendation of the Goldring E3 cartridge for the Audio-Technica AT-LP120-USB turntable, which is the turntable I own. I also saw your recommendation of the Vessel A3SE cartridge for this turntable. Which one would you recommend for digitally recording my records?

A: The sonic character of the cartridge will come through whether recording or listening directly, so just pick the cartridge you think is best.

I prefer the $169 Goldring E3 over the $99 Vessel A3SE, as one might expect given that the Goldring costs about 70% more. Both cartridges lead at their respective price points and either should make you very happy. An important consideration is upgrade path, and here the Vessel A3SE has the edge. The Goldring E3 cannot be upgraded by changing the stylus. The Vessel cartridges all share the same cartridge body, so you can take your entry-level A3SE and upgrade it with a new stylus, and adapt it for 78 RPM records, as well.

If you can stretch your budget a bit, I heartily recommend the $275 Nagaoka JT-80LB. This moving-magnet cartridge is a real revelation, with extreme definition, clarity and musicality while sounding more neutral and accurate than the warmish Nagaoka cartridges of the past.

Two popular products from past columns are running attractive promotions, and there is a newcomer that looks to make waves, too.

Let's start with the Hanasco Sonic Electric Toothbrush with eight brush heads for $32.99. Earlier this year I wrote about this, and it received a very enthusiastic response from readers. This toothbrush uses sonic vibrations to clean your teeth and gums as you brush, leaving your teeth and gums feeling like they were just cleaned at the dentist.

This package is especially enticing because it includes eight brush heads. The $32.99 price for everything is significantly less than you would pay for just eight brush heads from other brands, and it includes a high-quality rechargeable sonic toothbrush. Offers like this tend to go fast (I received a lot of e-mails from readers who missed out last time), so if you are interested in this, act quickly. Sold on amazon.com.

And let me introduce you to the ChargeCard phone charger. This power bank phone charger is the size and shape of a credit card (though slightly thicker) and fits in your wallet. Charge it up and bring it with you, and it is unlikely you will ever run out of power again. ChargeCard sells for $69.95 at theaquavault.com.