2. analog
  3. 191904-10046

What's the best bang for my bucks on RP6 upgrade?

My Dynavector 20X2L lost its stylus due to a rogue cleaning person, and I’m crying because this is the second time it’s happened. I have upgraded my phono pre from Heed Quasar to PS Audio Stellar since I purchased this cartridge, so now have a more resolving set-up that might reward an upgrade. The RP6 is 9 years old and in great shape.

Relevant system details: Line Magnetic 518IA, Merlin Monitors, Auditorium 23 cables

Now need to decide how to spend my money:

1. Get a used ____________ cartridge (suggestions please) for under $1250 to cut my losses and in case my cleaning people destroy this one too.

2. Just get a replacement 20X2L. I know I like it. I think I’d get a bit of a discount since I already have the cartridge-- dyna may offer an upgrade/retip option? $1000-$1250

2. Upgrade Cartridge. Dealer suggests Hana Umami Blue and I’m pretty committed to buying from them. Would this cartridge be overkill on an RP6?

$2500

3. Get a new P8 with Ania Pro for $4150, sell the RP6 for $1129 (current agon ad), net cost $3020.

4. Get a used _________ with _____________ cart (suggestions please) for $____________, sell the RP6 for $1129, net cost $_____________.

Thanks in advance.

D

dkidknow
dogberry
647 posts
 

I'd consider a cartridge with a stylus guard, and preferably one that does not risk causing damage when fitted and removed. Only one of my four cartridges that are in regular use has a stylus guard, and it (a SoundSmith) is difficult to use, and so I don't use it. But I have neither small children, cats or a cleaner any more, so it's pretty safe.

I can say that an MP-500 punches well above it's weight, costs less than $1250, and has an easily-applied stylus guard.

theflattire
172 posts
 

If I were you, I would try the Umami Blue.

If you go P8, I would suggest you move up from the Stellar. As your system goes now, it’s pretty good. Bottleneck is probably the cart.

Ag insider logo xs@2x
rauliruegas
13,052 posts
 

Dear @dkidknow:  " Would this cartridge be overkill on an RP6? ""

 

Why should be that way with the Blue? , the RB330 tonearmis just decent item, of course that Rega or other manufacturers have better tonearms.

 

I think that in any way you can be " safe " with the RB330/Umami Blue. You and no one but you can know it when you experienced down there in your system.

 

Regards and enjoy the MUSIC NOT DISTORTIONS,

R.

Ag insider logo xs@2x
superhonestben
199 posts
 

I am a source 1st kind of guy I do have a Rega rp6 with exact and I have the Rega p8 with get this their cheapie carbon cart. I prefer the P8 combo, sure I can make it better with a better cart, but have to tell you that combo kicks some you know what. 

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