I have a VPI Classic with a K&K phono stage and the Soundsmith Zephyr cart, along with a Synergistic Research Tricon Analog phono cable. This is an amazing combination! I don't have a pre-amp, but use a volume control on my phono stage direct to my amp. The K&K has XLR out, which is what I am using. The standard Maxxed-Out, which is what I have, should be a very substantial upgrade over your GCPH.
Which Upgrade First - Cartridge Or Phono Stage
Ok - I have about a $1500 budget to either upgrade my existing cartridge or upgrade my existing phono stage.
I'm currently running a Dynavector 10x5 on a VPI Classic 1 through a PS Audio GCPH.
I have read a lot of good things about the Soundsmith Zephyr and am seriously contemplating it but don't want to over-invest in the cartridge if I'm not going to hear the investment out of my PS Audio GCPH.
The same holds true in reverse.
If I go down the path of phono stage then one of my requirements is that it have XLR out since I just got done investing in new Nordost Heimdall cabling into and out of the phono stage.
So I'm really looking forward to the community's opinions.
Current system consists of the following:
Classe SSP-800
Classe CA-5100
Classe CDT-300
Thiel MCS1 (LCR)
REL Strata III (2)
I'm currently running a Dynavector 10x5 on a VPI Classic 1 through a PS Audio GCPH.
I have read a lot of good things about the Soundsmith Zephyr and am seriously contemplating it but don't want to over-invest in the cartridge if I'm not going to hear the investment out of my PS Audio GCPH.
The same holds true in reverse.
If I go down the path of phono stage then one of my requirements is that it have XLR out since I just got done investing in new Nordost Heimdall cabling into and out of the phono stage.
So I'm really looking forward to the community's opinions.
Current system consists of the following:
Classe SSP-800
Classe CA-5100
Classe CDT-300
Thiel MCS1 (LCR)
REL Strata III (2)