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Changing from an XV1-S

Hi All

I'm considering (read hankering) for a new cartridge. I have been using a Dynavector XV1-S for a while now and although it really is good I feel that other manufacturers have overtaken this recently with units that cost a 'tad' less.

It's going on my VPI Classis/ 10.5 and the new Whest PS.30RDT Special Edition/ Conrad Johnson ART MK1/ Levinson 331 Poweramp/ JM Lab Scala Utopia. The general sound from the system is excellent to bloody brilliant BUT having just heard an Ortofon Cadenza Black in the system I am led to believe that the XV1-S technology is 'getting on'.

A friend has recommended the Ortofon A90 or Lyra Titan.
Is there anything else I should look at?

My musical tastes are wide BUT do not include Opera, Classical or choir. I like vocals but love instumentals.

Thanks for your help - if I get any :)

dcarol

Showing 11 responses by audiofeil

audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
I've heard of London.

It's near Liverpool.

South of Scotland.

Lots of fog.

They drive on the wrong side of the road.
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
Agree with Mackris.

The VPI arm will not allow either the Dynavector or Ortofon to perform optimally.

Makes no sense to pair an average tonearm with a world class cartridge.

IMO
Dealer disclaimer
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
>>08-02-10: Dcarol
The XV1-S is very good but is old technology now.<<

How so?
Thanks in advance.
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
>>08-02-10: Dcarol
The technology that goes into the A90 is pretty new and I don't actually know of any other company using it, that's why I say the XV1-S is getting on.<<

Please explain for us, in detail, the differences in technology and why you believe the A90 will offer a marked improvement used in an average table/tonearm like the VPI.

Thanks in advance
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
Good, better, or best is listener dependent.

I can think of a dozen cartridges that would be at the top of a "what's your favorite/best cartridge?" list.
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
Mike,
I know what you mean. I have 7 tables, 6 tonearms, 6 phono stages, and 21 cartridges.

I have no doubt the A90 is a wonderful cartridge but 50+ years in the hobby and business has taught me the latest is not always the greatest.

Thanks
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
I don't think it's that simple Stickman.

Given the other system components, most notably the phono preamp, are capable of resolving the "better" cartridge, I believe it's safe to say that any of the 3 would provide a noticeable level of improvement to my ears. OTOH I can think of other cartridges (all more expensive than the 20X) that wouldn't float MY boat.

Again and I don't want to beat this to death but cartridges, like speakers and cables, are very listener dependent.

One man's ceiling is another man's floor as the song goes.
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
>>08-03-10: Dcarol
I think I need that audiophile dictionary<<

So you can get one person's definition of etched, musical, organic, sumptuous, detailed, PRaT, detailed, warm, vivid, blah blah blah?

Just go listen for yourself.

Far too many people, including many posting in these threads, hear what they read not what they hear.

IMO
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
IME a different or new sound can often be misinterpreted as "better".

I believe many hours are required to determine if the new component is better and as Dan said, it's still a subjective call.
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
08-26-10: Downunder
The A90 is the better cartridge overall>>

Correction. To your ears it is a better cartridge.

Better is subjective.

One size does not fit all for any component.

After 9 years that should be apparent.
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
Thanks for the clarification Shane and that was my point.

I strongly prefer Zyx Universe to Benz Micro Ruby 3 and Shelter 9000 but none of them are "better".

No financial interest in these products.
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