New Mono records - Cart?

[ConfuciusSay]

Simple answer to OP question:
Dedicated mono cart sounds better, a better stylus profile sounds better, that’s why the more expensive mono carts have them.
I like AT33 mono but there are more or less expensive options.
Would I buy one for a single mono record? No.

 

[tubeactive]

Good answer...With great condition discs and later mono discs, ConfuciusSay is right-on.

It is the early mono discs, pre-late '60s, which can be more of a crap shoot when employing line contact styli. Sometimes, the magic of an exotic stylus helps early mono discs. Sometimes a "wide elliptical" can be beneficial. Usually however, the spherical 1 mil = 25 micron will be the quietest in early mono grooves, the genuine "microgrooves."

 

[Old Guy8]

If you plan on getting many mono discs, a mono cart can reduce noise.
I play old mono jazz and new. I had a Grado Gold 2 stereo cart. So I bought a Grado ME+ mono cart. The carts are identical shape and tracking force. Mounted on identical headshells. I can switch out in a minute or so. The ME+ is definitely quieter on older monos.
I'm sure it's not the BEST cart for monos, at only $150. Sky is the limit with turntable setups, as with all audio.

 

[tubeactive]

Grado ME+ should be good...As I understand it, Grado originally came out with an elliptical tip, 25 microns=1 mil wide for earlier mono discs. During production runs, they apparently decided to reduce the width to the stereo size, 18 microns=.7 mil wide.

Thus, if you have a later version, reduction in noise with early monos in "average condition" might be minimal or even negligible, as the thinner stylus rides deeper in the early microgroove dirt(LOL). Cleaner, older mono discs in VG+ or better should enjoy this cartridge though...