2. analog
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Analog Front End Next Upgrade

My analog front end currently consists of:

VPI Prime Turntable
MC Scheu SL Cartridge
Lehmann Audio Black Cube SE II

I'm using Cardas Iridium cables, and everything feeds into an Auralic Taurus MkII headphone amp.  If you had a $2000 budget, what is the weakest link, and what would you upgrade first?

I was thinking about upgrading the cartridge with either a Lyra Delos or Dyna XX-2, but was not sure if the black cube SE II is resolving enough.  The other option I was considering is going with a Lehmann Audio Decade phono stage.
cbl117

Showing 4 responses by inna

inna
7,923 posts
 
Yeah, I would've done either the same or got Sutherland 20/20.
However I am a Purist Audio cables fan and don't use Cardas, though I am unfamiliar with his newer cables.
inna
7,923 posts
 
Yes, I'd say tube phono stage of equal performance level with the advantages of tube sound would cost at least two times more. That's the reason why I still keep my Acoustech phono. I seriously doubt that those Allnic and Blue Circle could match it in terms of dynamics and bass. I would have to go higher, to the level of $5k tube phono stages to have everything better.
inna
7,923 posts
 
I would upgrade the phono first not the cartridge, and this new phono should be able to handle Lyra Delos and Dyna XX that you might get later. What to upgrate to? I think, you could consider starting separate thread while listing all your equipment and preferred sound and taste in music. Some will say go up the Lehmann line, some will recommend Pass or Sutherland, yet other will say to go tubes.
inna
7,923 posts
 
Pangea cords appear to be the weakest link. But what exactly is not good enough, what would you like to improve?
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