Grado F3+ stylus replacement? Upgrades worthwhile?

[trickert]

I have an old Grado F3+ I inherited from my Dad. I also inherited some Shures and Empires, and I've upgraded those cartridges with NOS stylii (2000Z, 600LAC, V15 III). I've been digging the Empires (more than the Shure). I also have some Denons, and like those, too. But in any event: I'd like to resuscitate the Grado, as the stylus is broken.*

So, what are my options? I'd like it to be competitive with the other cartridges I have. I've done some reading around, and there's conflicting opinions. Some say the 8MZ stylus is a great upgrade, and not too expensive. But others suggest going higher up the quality chain, to something like the TLZ. But here's the thing: will that old F3+ body really make the most of these higher up stylii? If so, I'm interested; if not, then not. What are the thoughts of those who have tried these things out and know? Thanks in advance for any insight, guidance, and especially descriptions of sound benefits... or not, if the benefits are largely wasted on this old Grado body.

Thanks!
* TMI for those who care: I recall listening to this Grado during my high school years (late '70s into early '80s) when my brother and I took over my dad's stereo. He bought the Grado to save his Empires from our abuse (he liked jazz, Sinatra, etc.). I played a *ton* of Zeppelin and Yes on that old Grado... even if the cantilever hadn't broken over the years, it'd be worn out anyway... But I still remember the bass power his old stereo (triple Advents, Dynaco 416 amp) put out...

 

[captouch]

I had a F3+ and used a 8MZ on it. I only had maybe 20hrs on it before (for some reason I don't remember any more) I tried to remove the stylus and bent the cantilever and ruined it. Big bummer.

But I'm not sure I'd start any higher than the 8MZ. It sounds like you have many cart options and unless you know the Grado will be your primary, it might be best to try it with the 8MZ and see how you like the Grado vs your other options. If you really like it best, then you can enjoy the 8MZ for 1000hrs and then when it's time to replace, you can consider going higher.

 

[trickert]

The cantilever is bent and broken on the old F3+ stylus, so it would have to get a new cantilever along with the retipping.

So far, the discussion seems a bit down on the current stylii replacements, at least at the mid-range (Black, Gold, etc.).

What about NOS? Or is that rare, difficult to find?

 

[Redd House]

I would personally have it retipped by Joseph with a nude diamond. The cantilever is part of the retip and that cartridge will perform better than when it was new.
And far superior to the current Grado styli.
PM me for more details.

 

[mkane]

I have a TLZ and like it. I've also have the 8MZ. Never done a side by side but $300 isn't bad in the scheme of things.