Fun Generation Concorde S

First of all, I want you to know that I'm evaluating both the cartridge and the "S" replacement needle here, as it's impossible for me to guess what part (cartridge or needle) is responsible for most of the sound.

I bought the Fun Generation Concorde S cartridge for my SL1200-Mk2 and a couple of these replacement needles, considering the price of the cartridge but mostly the price of the needles. I don't have many hours with this cartridge and the S stylus yet, but here are my thoughts:
When just playing, the frequency response for all frequencies, especially highs and mids, is inferior to a Stanton DS4 (it's the only comparison I can give), when working at 3.0g tracking force, BUT it improves very much by rising it up to 3.7...4g. Therefore, I tend to believe it depends more on the needle than the cartridge. If you're using a mixer you can also adjust the lack of highs and mids from the EQ and it will sound almost like a Stanton DS4.

Considering the price is around at half of a Stanton DS4 or a cheaper Ortofon Concorde cartridge/needle set price, I think this a VERY GOOD DEAL for stocking up your needle reserve for regular playback.

PS: what I'm curious to try in the future: to buy an Ortofon-branded needle and use it with this cartridge, I'm really really curious if it makes a difference in sound.

This cart is decent for the price. I think it's a Concorde Pro S which is rebranded. The only thing I would say is that the finger lifts are not detachable like the MK2 Concordes.

This being said, if I were to buy another pair of Concordes for the road, I would go with the Concorde Mix MK2 as they are a similar price here on Thomann, plus they come with a case to keep them protected.