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Lyra Kleos or Kleos SL?

I'm considering said cartridge upgrade but would like to hear opinions on the two versions offered.

My TT is an SME 20/2 with a SME IV mk iv tonearm.
Phono preamp is a Parasound JC-3+.

Wondering if the SL version (which is lower output than the regular version) would play well with the JC-3+, or if I might need to add a SUT to the chain.  

Also, my musical tastes lean toward classic rock, blues, folk, alt-country, with some jazz thrown in for good measure.  Not sure if this is a major factor in the decision or not, but thought I'd let you know.

Please let me know your thoughts if you've had experience with these two carts.

Thanks,

Peter
128x128snackeyp
goldman
26 posts
 
I own the Kleos SL and the Etna.   The Kleos SL is really great and I’d go for the SL over the higher output version.  Check out this video:
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=b91ydKjb7HQ
The song is played with the Kleos SL.  In fact, you should read what Fremer wrote about this setup...he called it best of show!  
https://www.analogplanet.com/content/artisan-fidelity-turntables-drew-me-sound-made-me-stay
That being said, this was an all-tube setup with an $18,500 idler drive table with a Kuzma 4-point.  Great system, but they wouldn’t have paired a $100k system with a $4k cartridge unless it was ideal....and apparently it was.  Good luck.
daveyf's avatar
daveyf
2,871 posts
 
I own  the higher output model. IMO, IF you are unsure about the ability of the phono stage to drive the lower output model, the higher output is definitely the way to go. To that, I believe anyone with a tube phono stage should only consider the regular Kleos. Lastly, I am always a little concerned that dynamics will suffer as the output of the cartridge drops...this is something one really has to hear for themselves on their own setup and gear.
correo's avatar
correo
5 posts
 
Did anybody compare the Kleos SL with the normal Etna (not SL)? I own the latter and also a normal Kleos. Eventually, I'll upgrade from Kleos to SL and I wonder how much the distance still is to the normal Etna. Upgrade to Etna SL would also be an option, though I prefer the Kleos as "everyday" cartridge...

Thanks for commenting!
vusi_khumalo
72 posts
 
It's good that the OP has come to a decision so quickly! For most of us audiophilia is a journey, and he can change his mind in the future...
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