Contents of the auction: ERA 444 turntable design: J. C. Verdier with new arm-wiring, signal cable and plugs (SME and Neutrik), new, unused Shelter 201 MM cartridge and clear, undamaged, original ERA dust cover. Comes with manual, the original packaging of the cartridge and all the photos and scans on CD-ROM. Where audiophile qualities and design do not always go hand in hand, this offered ERA 444 might be an exception. In combination with the new and unused Shelter 201 cartridge this turntable plays very beautiful. The French ERA has a major international reputation in the field of record players by making important technical progress. The model 444 is the paragon for this. Characteristic features are the world's slowest running synchronous turntable motor that guarantees an absolutely constant speed. The patented Flexiprene by ERA-belt drive. En Silent Bloc-montage. The most eye-catching is of course the wonderful arm that is different than usual to be balanced after the needle power is set. This takes some getting used to but then works very simple and precise. The running gear is mounted in an attractive base, with wooden sides. The overall effect is elegant and modest. In 2006 the Japanese Shelter has tried to market a cartridge that was to serve as entry to their much more expensive MC's. When it did not succeed in the manufacture of a cheap MC they chose aa MM design and processed the features of an MC in it. Successfully may I assure you. The synergy in the display that a Shelter 201 reaches makes the cartridge a first class recommendation.