I've had the vdH MC ONE Special for 13+ years (replaced it with identical at the beginning of the pandemic because refurbing wasn't practical) and think it is a great value and sounds very musical - dynamic, detailed, but not at all harsh. Stylus lasts extremely long due to its shape which is a big plus. VPI is the distributor and also sells them direct.
Can listen for hours without any fatigue. Not familiar with the DDII special, but I assume it is an older entry level cartridge.