2. analog
  3. 190718-193610

amazing transformation...how?

A couple of years ago I purchased a used but in excellent condition, VPI Scout turntable. The previous owner included a Dynavector 20x2 high output cartridge which I was very excited about.

I got it all set up, grounded, stabilized and isolated etc and couldn't wait to put on some vinyl, sit back and enjoy! I don't remember what album I put on but the result was, I HATED the sound. It was excruciating! I tried tweaks, cleaning, changing music...it didn't matter I HATED the sound! Way too bright, harsh, grating on my ears. I gave up! and have spent the last year and a half only listening to CD's.

About a week ago, I for some reason decided to give the TT and cartridge another try. I put on a record, fired it up and something amazing happened! it sounded incredible! Smooth, detailed, open, balanced...NONE of the characteristics that I heard and hated months ago!

My question is, WHAT happened??? HOW?

Nothing else changed in my system. I have tried multiple albums, various types of music. They all now sound amazing. I can't wait to spend time relistening to my vinyl collection and adding more! I had pretty much given up on vinyl but that has all changed! ....Welcoming thoughts.

cubsipod
pindac's avatar
pindac
2,864 posts
 

Once in a while a Static is present in my listening environment, that really does not lend itself to creating a pleasant experience when replaying Vinyl. 

I have successfully treated it for a short duration, maybe Two Albums, but it speedily shows once more. 

I use CD and return to Vinyl at a later date. 

The Styli lasts a little longer and the CD sings so a Win Win. 

Is there a possibility Static could be the cause of your own dissatisfaction?, creating the situation where CD as a Source was much more attractive in use. 

 

cubsipod OP
2 posts
 

Thanks for your thoughts

It's possible that static could have been a factor. But if it was, I did nothing to change/treat static. And I could imagine static negatively affecting sound quality in certain ways but I can't see how the absence would result in such a positive transformation. 

The musical experience went from unbearable to enthralling.

kennyc
1,472 posts
 

@cubsipod it seems all things being equal/same that you hated the sound before but loved it afterwards - hard to define with limited objective info leading to your subjective experience.  Enjoy your system

neonknight
392 posts
 

Perhaps it was a poor recording. Without knowing what was listened to there is no way to revisit it and confirm what you heard. If you can find any of those original albums give them a spin and see how things sorted out. 

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