Once properly set up, my WTL Amadeus has been no more finicky than any other turntable I've owned. The only exception might be the delicacy of the uber thin drive belts. I use 2 or 3 a year, but they're extremely inexpensive to fabricate. I believe 3 are included with a WTL turntable purchase. As far as MC cartridges, I've used both stock and Zu bodied Denon 103's with no issue. For heavier cartridges, use both included counterweights or an aftermarket XTC.