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Newbie needs some cart advice for a SME V/Dyn P75

I have just recently taken the leap into vinyl. I scoured the forums for a good solid intro phono pre to get my feet wet, and I chose the Dynavector P-75 as my starter phono. I purchased a Gyrodec with the Orbe platter upgrade, a SME V arm and it did come with a Koetsu Black which I believe is in need of retip/rebuild.

I am looking at the possibility of using the Koetsu as a trade-in and I was thinking about Shelter 501 MK II, or a Dynavector Karat 17D2. What would be some other solid performers in the under 1k category?

I like my music with PRaT, tight snappy bass, warm side of neutral. I will take a hit in uber detail for the above characteristics. I detest sizzling highs. Otherwise, I'm willing to experiment!

I listen mainly to jazz and electronica (trance, house, ambient, drone).

Thanks in advance!
zanth

Showing 2 responses by flyingred

flyingred
139 posts
 
Zanth - the SME arm is quite dry and analytical and often benefits from a warmer cartridge like the Koetsu.

The Koetsu Black is a classic - I've owned one for the last 20 years and I would recommend that you get it checked out and re-tipped if necessary and then live with it.

Some say the Koetsu is slightly bass light, however allied to a SME I would expect it to sound great.

Some refer to the Shelter 501 as a poor man's Koetsu so I wouldn't view that as an upgrade. The Koetsu gives warm side of neutral. You'll struggle to get tight snappy bass with a SME whatever cart you use - it's been described as "plummy"

I think the Dyna carts are a good fit with the SME arm - the 17D2 has stunning responsiveness and in the SME will sound quite tight in the bass.

Cutting to the chase, try the Koetsu Black re-tipped (if you don't like it it's worth far more re-tipped than in need of re-tipping), if that doesn't float your boat try the 17D2 (they're available really cheap off-shore).

I can give you a great contact in Switzerland who re-tips Koetsus at affordable rates - contact me off list if you want the contact.

Disclaimer - no connection other than as satisfied customer.
flyingred
139 posts
 
Raul, I respect your point of view and experience of many, many arms and cartridges, however the current SME arms are neutral with a slight tendency to emphasise bass (in many combinations). Because the Koetsu is bass light (agreed!) it works better with an SME than many other arms (Naim Aro, etc.).

My intention was to encourage Zanth (who says he is new to vinyl) to try the Black out before letting it go cheaply.

My affection for the Koetsu Black is probably nostalgic - when I first heard one 20 years ago it blew me away - one of those "I've got to have one" moments. I've nurtured my KB ever since, swapping it out with a more workaday cart on my FR64s for special listening sessions.

I also like detail and absence of coloration - I'm expecting a Dynavector XX-2 to arrive early next week, which should be quite a contrast.

Zanth I'm pleased you've got your table running well and have the opportunity to appreciate the Koetsu.
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