Sometimes styli are so similar in sound and price that it’s difficult to filter out the differences. This review is about which of the two styli performs better in the listening test and for whom it is better suited. So, we’ll compare these two styli and highlight their respective characteristics.
National EPS 270 ED [JP]
The National EPS 270 ED [JP] stylus impresses with its clean reproduction and clarity. It comes with a turquoise transparent button and a shorter tube arm compared to the BLACK DIAMOND. In comparison, it also has a slightly firmer rubber and can start the test with a tracking force of 1.75g. This allows for good handling and precision in tracking.
The sound quality of the JP stylus is very balanced and clear. It can handle impurities and scratches well and offers a solid foundation in the bass. The highs may seem a bit restrained, but this is not necessarily a disadvantage. Overall, the National EPS 270 ED [JP] is a good choice for lovers of older records where precise tracking and clarity are important.
National EPS 270 ED [BLACK DIAMOND]
The Swiss have crafted a great piece of technology here in frog-green transparent design. With its naked diamond, it plays more prominently in the highs, which can sometimes lead to a slightly silvery sound depending on the mastering and pressing technique. By the way, this is an interesting phenomenon: the higher the quality of the tracking system, the more vinyl defects become audible. Don’t be fooled here.
The stylus is capable of extracting fine details and nuances in the music, thus creating a harmonious and detailed sound image. This property comes into its own, especially with modern and well-preserved records. Overall, the National EPS 270 ED [BLACK DIAMOND] offers excellent sound quality at a comparatively low price. It is particularly suitable for music lovers who value high detail accuracy and sound quality. However, in the borderline range of tracking and in case of disturbances on the record, the JP makes a better and more stable impression.
Resume
Both styli have their own advantages and disadvantages. The National EPS 270 ED [JP] is a good choice for older and imperfect records where precise tracking and clarity are still important. The National EPS 270 ED [BLACK DIAMOND], on the other hand, is ideal for well-preserved and clean modern recordings where details and sound quality are paramount. It may be worth considering purchasing both styli together to get the best of both worlds.
