cartridge selection for vpi10.5/refsupscoutmasters

Just to add to the confusion I can report great results with Shelter on the 10.5i. I have a 90x I've used with the 9 sig and now the 10.5i and have enjoyed both. The Harmony you mention should be even better. I get a wonderful midrange and balanced extension on the top and bottom ends as well.

The Dynas are a very good match with the JMW.

I woukd definatly give the koetsu a serious tryout. I'm using a koetsu jade on a jmw 10 on a tnt. After reading all the negative stuff about vpi tonearms and koetsu my expectations were low but they work very well together in reality. Also remember the 10.5 will do even better as the bigger aszimith ring and side weights make it a better match with lower compliance cartridges like the koetsu.

I would try a few things though. You might benifit from using the 3 gram headshell weight to increase the effective mass of the arm (not needed with the heavier stone body jade).

Try using no damping or very little (recomended by Mike at VPI)

The standard loading recomendation for your solid state xono would 100 ohms but try higher ones as well, going up to 1000 ohms. You might favor the more open sound of the higher loading. If the koetsu doesn't do it for you, the xv1-s is a great choice. Good luck.

Clearaudio Goldfinger HANDS DOWN !!!!

Harry W recommends the Dynaxv1 or the Benz LP. I am using the Benz LP with the Superscout, rim drive, heavy platter, 10.5i. I also suggest the Ebony H..the difference between that and the LP may not be that cost effective. The LP is a bit better, but the H is very, very good. VTA should be a tad low in the back and use a bit of damping.

I used to run Magnepan's and they are very good with the mids and highs! I have SSM with the 9 signature arm. I run a Lyra Skala with excellent results. The SSM will be excellent with base. Actually it's one of it's strongest points. I also have a friend who runs the XV1s with stellar results. I suggest you get a good phono cable like the Nordost Tyr to compliment the Valhalla cable in the arm. I also believe that your Koetsu will sound fine but there are several that better it, being ten years old. IMHO