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Cartridge & phono stage for VPI Scoutmaster setup?

Here’s yet another “what do I do” from someone who’s taking the next step into vinyl.

Coming this week for me is a VPI Scoutmaster w/the standard JWM9 arm which is replacing my beloved Dual CS5000 I’ve had for 21 years.

I’ve been running the Dual straight into my Conrad Johnson PV11a (phono input), into a modified Threshold S/500. From there, through a set of 2m bi-wire Audioquest Clears feeding a pair of Martin Logan Ascents. Interconnects are Nordost.

I typically listen to 70s and 80s rock as well as some modern blues. As a musician myself, I prefer a clear, defined presentation of the music.

With the old Dual, I had no problem volume matching my other sources when using an Ortofon X3MC (2.5 mV) or recently, an AT 440ML (4.0mV) but I assume those are very high outputs compared to the cartridges I should be using w/the SM to get the most out of it.

So…, with the arrival of the VPI this week, I first need to select a cartridge and second, (or maybe this is the first step) select a phono stage.

Budget wise, I’d be looking for a new, sub $700 cartridge (Benz Micro ? or Dynavector DV20X? works well from what I’ve researched). I’d also like to keep the phono stage (used is fine) around or under that same price.

After purchasing the TT and allowing the purchase of a new cartridge, I’ve pretty much reached the end of my budget, but realize I will likely need a phono stage w/my current pre, can upgrade the phono stage sometime in the future once recreational funds are replenished.

I could also temporarily install either the AT or Ortofon on the JMW9 but I’m not sure if that would actually be taking a step forward or backward.

Any thoughts, suggestions and recommendations are much appreocated…
b2sc

Showing 1 response by artemus_5

artemus_5's avatar
artemus_5
1,992 posts
 
I've heard others say that the Sumiko Blackbird ($679) works very well with the ScoutMaster. You may be able to use it with your present CJ phono stage since it is a Hi Output MC cart. This may do if you are really strapped for $$$.
However I am very much a believer in getting the best phono preamp you can afford. It is an important and often overlooked part of the vinyl chain. I have the SM TT and am running the Dyna 20XL with a Wright phono preamp and K&K tranny. I recommend the Wright very highly. It is $845 new. You can find one used from time to time but you have to jump quickly since the move very fast. I was never quick enough and had to buy new. Its the best $845 I've ever spent. However in order to run a Low Output MC cart, you will need a step up tranny which will put you over budget. Of course you could use the Blackbird with the Wright. One poster over at AA liked the Blackbird better than the 20 XL.
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