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Soundsmith Carmen vs. Dynavector 20x2H

Looking for a great Cartridge to match up with a VPI Traveler v.2 turntable.

I have narrowed it down to the Soundsmith Carmen and the Dynavector 20x2H but I am open to any other suggestions under $1000. Anyone compare those two to each other?

Other ones I was considering were the Benz Ace HO, Dynavector 10x5, Clearaudio Virtuoso, and Grado Sonata 1. I like an open and dynamic sound but also smooth and not too bright on vocals.

Any comparisons and opinions would be much appreciated. Thanks!
mezzanine

Showing 2 responses by bifwynne

bifwynne
2,206 posts
 
I have the DV20X2 H and the Sounsdsmith VPI Zephyr. The Zephyr, whi9ch lists for $1K,is a notch or two above the Carmen. I highly receommend the Zephyr. I've been through a number of carties and the Zephyr, at its price point, outclasses most. Btw, I also own the Classic 1 (with Classic 3 wand as an upgrade).
bifwynne
2,206 posts
 
As I said above, the Zephyr is my primary and the DV 20X2 H is my back-up. Obviously, I like the Zephyr better.

My impressions? On every level that one would compare carties, I think the Zephyr does a better job.

Here's something else to think about. I don't care how much you spend on a carty -- $500 or $5000 (e.g., Benz LPS). Stylii wear out and there's no getting around it - period.

But here's the good news. Peter Leddermann retips the Zephyr for $150 and then you're good for another 1500-2000 hours. I bet the DV requires a re-build, if it's even worth it.

Last point. The buzz is that Harry Weisfeld (sp?) of VPI and Peter Leddermann of Soundsmith collaborated on designing the Zephyr to be compatible with the VPI JMW uni-pivot wand. And it is. By contrast, the Traveler arm is fixed gimbel, which means it's more stable than the JMW uni-pivot. That makes set up and carty choice a lot easier.

Just my opinion.
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