Cartridge upgrade for VPI Scoutmaster

>I'd like to buy a Dynavector XV-1 and be done with it, but worry that my JMW-9 Signature won't do it justice.<

It won't.

However, very few $1000 tonearms will optimize the XV-1s; you are not alone.

Don't let money burn a hole in your pocket. Find a nice Benz, Clearaudio, Zyx, etc. that works well in your arm until you can afford to upgrade.

The journey is ongoing; very few find the rainbow's end.

Madfloyd...why are you letting opinions on the internet drive you nuts. Go listen on your own...if you are near Arizona, you are welcome to hear mine. You won't break anything if you buy your Dyna and put it in a VPI arm if you are resigned to the XV..you can always move on if you are displeased with the results. Call/write Dynavektor and get their opinion.

Audiofeil,
It seems there is more of a difference than just the Nordost Valhalla wire between the VPI JMW9 and the JMW9 Signature. As described by VPI "The JMW-9 Signature tonearm builds on all the advantages of standard JMW-9 unipivot tonearm. The JMW-9 Signature tonearm is completely wired with Nordost Valhalla internal wiring! It also uses an improved bearing assembly with viscous damping, has added mass for better resonance control, and adds fine adjustment of tracking force on the rear stem of the arm. It even has VPI's newest addition: mechanical anti-skate control!"

Yes I know.

My position remains unchanged. The XV-1s cannot be optimized in that tonearm. Nor can the Zyx Universe. Nor can the Transfiguration Orpheus. And on and on.

Thank you.

Agree with Stringreen. I enjoy the Benz LP on the 10.5i very much. Whether or not anyone else beleives it's optimal is superfluous. Realistically, no other true audiophile will ever hear my system so why should any other opinion matter? Recent comparisons confirm to me that the LP blows away the Shelter 90x and that a VPI arm is more than worthy of a top level cartridge whoever makes it.