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Cartridge upgrade for VPI Scoutmaster

Hello All!
I have a VPI Scoutmaster with a Dynavector 20XH. My phonostage, pre amp, and amps are all Pass Labs. IC cables are Harmonic Technology Magic, and speaker cables are Harmonic Technology Magic Tweeter and Pro-9+ in a bi-wired configuration. VSA speakers. My stereo goal- realism.
I have two questions I was hoping to get help with.
1. What would be a great low to medium output cart for my set-up? 2K or less. And why.
2.How risky is it to buy a used cart. Is it worth the $ saved?
Thanks for your input!
Steve
srwooten

Showing 4 responses by islandmandan

islandmandan
1,260 posts
 
Hi Srwooten, I have been using a Dynavector XX2MKII, first with JMW9 arm. I have since upgraded my arm to the JMW9 Signiture, and I am now getting much better performance than with the stock JMW. I would go to the Signiture, then try a better cartridge. I don't think you can go wrong, $500 with trade-in from VPI, if you can stand the wait time. Getting great synergy with the Dynavector P-75 MKII phono stage. Works for me.

Best of luck, enjoy,

Dan
islandmandan
1,260 posts
 
Back in the mid-late 70's, I used a Shure V-15 MKIV, with a little integrated Kenwood amp driving Tannoy 12" Monitor Golds. When I think back on it, that was a very good sounding little system. I never had a table and phono pre that measures up to what I have now, but it would be fun to try. I might have to do that some time. I don't think I would be too surprised at how good it sounds, though.

Regards to all, enjoy,

Dan
islandmandan
1,260 posts
 
PS to my last post-my Dyna XX2MKII cart I am using now, I bought used here on the 'Gon, seller claimed 10 hours on it, which has to be true, since it took time to break in. It has been a superb performer, and at just under $1000, as opposed to $1800, worked out very well. You pays your money and takes your chances, I guess.

Dan
islandmandan
1,260 posts
 
I'll wager if you haven't properly set up your arm/cart with the MintLP, you're only realizing 50-60% of what it can really do, given you get azimuth, and anti-skate set.
I keep saying this, but Mapleshade NanoMount System is an amazing and inexpensive tweak that really helps.

Enjoy,
Dan
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