Best $500 cartridge? Dynavector DV-20XH?

I have a Dyna 20XH, which I love, but rather than offer a blanket endorsement I would recommend that you consider what I believe to be the key issue in cartridge selection--how well it will work with your arm and turntable. Viewed as a record playing system your cartridge should possess the right values in terms of compliance, weight, etc. Your turntable and arm manufacturer should be able to give you some great choices at that price point, one of which may or may not be the 20XH. I bought my Dyna after talking with the technical folks at VPI who made it quite clear that the 20XH was their favorite at the $500 mark. Can't really argue with the guys who designed and built the table and tonearm and who have tried any number of different cartridges in the system. Best of luck.

Thanks for your response...i'll definitely get ahold of them. Any issues with surface noise being an issue with the 20XH? the only time i've heard it the vinyl being played was really poor and all i could hear was fuzz.

I sold my dx20XH- is was rather boring and sterile and polite. Ended up with an old grado and also an old shure v15. So on your set-up - not sure you'll have to try it out. So so subjective. But my advice is pass on the 20xh

There are many. The Grado Sonata, assuming proper matching to the arm, is a player in the $500 range. I have owned one for over five years and used it on a VPI 10.5 and Rega RB-300 to great effect.

IMHO you won't find a better cart. than Dyna until you get over about $1k, other opinions may vary.