2. analog
  3. 119329-538

Should I consider a cartridge upgrade?

How "much" cartridge is too much?
Hi All,

I currently am very happy with my VPI Scoutmaster/JMW9/Soundsmith Paua/edensound Terracone footers/Edensound Terrastone platforms for TT and separate for motor/edensound brass damping weights for motor and plinth/Transparent Reference MM2 phono/Herron VTPH-2 analog setup.

I have another year or more before I need my Paua retipped.

I am wondering how much higher I can go with cartridge price/performance with this setup and still reap the benefits of the cartridge? I used a Zephyr Mk II before that, which I love; I did notice a significant improvement going to the Paua.

I know some will suggest just buying a different TT, but this was my late father's table, and I would like to stick with it.

By the way, the current setup sounds awesome, so I will be fine with retipping my Paua and sticking with it if that seems best.

Thanks for your thoughts!
Arsh

Main System:

VPI Scoutmaster, Soundsmith Paua, VPI SDS, Transparent Reference MM2 phono, Herron VTPH-2, Herron IC, Musical Fidelity NuVista CDP, Transparent Ultra MM and Transparent digital cable, Musical Fidelity NuVista 800, Transparent Reference MM2 SC, Wilson Audio Sasha, Transparent Powerbank 8 and Transparent power cords, Terracones and Terrastone platforms, Atacama Equinox rack.

arsh

Showing 3 responses by noromance

noromance's avatar
noromance
10,054 posts
 
NOS Telefunken tubes and V-Caps for your Herron preamp will yield huge results.
noromance's avatar
noromance
10,054 posts
 
Arsh, I don't have a Herron but I have been rolling tubes for many years and have rebuilt and updated a number of amps. As you gave not mentioned my aforementioned tweaks, I am recommending you give it a shot. Buy the best tubes NOS as you can and talk to Herron about a V-CAP or Jupiter Copper foils if you have a temp regulated room as the latter don't like heat. I believe these upgrades will be well worth it.
noromance's avatar
noromance
10,054 posts
 
You will notice an increase in resolution, timbre, transparency, focus, dimensionality and speed.
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