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Ortofon Jubilee vs. Dynavector XX-2 Mk. 2

I plan to upgrade from my current Lyra Dorian, which is nice but I find it a bit sterile sounding. I am considering the Jubilee and the XX-2 Mk. 2. These cartridges seem very similar in output level, weight, compliance, internal impedance, and even appearance! Does anyone here have experience with both and could point out the basic differences in sound quality? BTW - I am running a Scoutmaster with JMW9 Sig. arm. I could trade the Dorian in for a Helikon and the price would be comparable to buying either the Ortofon or Dyna, but perhaps the Lyra analytical sound is not what I am after. Hence, my interest in other brands. Thanks!
rockinrobin

Showing 2 responses by thom_at_galibier_design

thom_at_galibier_design's avatar
thom_at_galibier_design
729 posts
 
In the Ortofon camp, you would do well to talk to Bill about the SPU Royal N instead of the Jubilee ... this said by a guy who sells (and likes) Dynavectors ... me.

The SPU Royal-N has extremely vivid tone colors (very reminsiscent of the Dynavector line).

Don't think of it as a vintage cartridge. Heck! It has silver coils, and a very radical stylus profile. It is a cartidge to be reckoned with, and frankly, I don't know why Ortofon didn't re-badge the Royal N instead of coming out with the Jubilee.

Now, if you have a tonearm that's on the light side of things, the Jubilee might be a better match, but if you're in the 10-12 gram effective mass range, the Royal N will work just fine ... all the way up to an 18 gram "monster".

For ligher arms, some weight at the headshell will help you out.

I'd love to hear the background on this decision.

Cheers,
Thom @ Galibier
thom_at_galibier_design's avatar
thom_at_galibier_design
729 posts
 
Sorry for the confusing comment context:
I'd love to hear the background on this decision.
This referred to Ortofon's decision to come out with the Jubilee instead of re-badging a stunningly good cartridge in the Royal N.

Cheers,
Thom
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