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Linn Basik LVX to ?? for XX2 MkII

I just acquired a Dynavector XX2 to replace a 20XL. What an incredible upgrade! I loved the 20XL and don't know why I decided to upgrade, but I did and won't look back! The XX2 was like going from CD on an old Philips to SACD on an OPPO 95. Wow!

My current front-end consists of a Systemdek IIX with a 20mm acrylic platter, Linn Basik LVX tonearm and a Dynavector P-75 jumpered in "special" mode.

I'm only wondering if I would experience any substantial improvement by upgrading the arm. I'm playing with picking up a second hand Linn Ittok, which is basically a drop in replacement for the Basik, which would let me keep my armboard intact. I am also intrigued by the VPI JMW-9t, which would require a new armboard, or other arms (which would also require a new armboard).

I don't have the funds to upgrade the whole deck, or I'd probably go with a Scout 2 or something similar. I've got about $750 to get a used arm on the current deck.

Would it be a substantial upgrade to something, or should I just wait a few years until I have the funds to get a new table/arm?
marktrav
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islandmandan
1,260 posts
 
Hi, having had for several years, an XX2MKII, first on a Scout Signature, and now on a restored Garrard 401 and Dynavector 501 tonearm, and also having had a Dynavector P-75, I suspect you'll get more bang for your buck by upgrading your phono stage. I sold my Simaudio Moon LP 5.3 with outboard power supply to a fellow that has a Scout and a P-75 phono stage. He was blown away with the difference in what he hears now, as opposed to with the P-75.

That may be more than you can afford, but there are many good phono pres that can be had for $750, or thereabouts.
polk432
1,142 posts
 
If you're using a MC you'll need to get the Ittok LV II since its tube is big around enough to handle MC. I used a Dynavector 10x5 (piece of crap cantilever as far as I'm concerned) and it sounded good. I have a Linn 6.5Mv Adikt MM hooked up to a Cary SLP 98P like the DV was, and like it even better. I had the LVX and the K-9 K18II and Nagaoaka M11 all sounded good with it. There is more difference between the LVX and Ittok LVII than between the Ittok LVII and a Linn Ekos, so the best bang for the buck would be to get the Ittok. Best of luck.
marktrav OP
24 posts
 
All good advice. I think after I sell the Basik, the 20XL and the P-75, I'll have enough to add to my budget and do both the Ittok and a phono pre. I actually bought a PS Audio GCPH today. I'll probably eventually have it modded by Underwood. Still looking for a good deal on an Ittok.

Thanks for the advice!
polk432
1,142 posts
 
Marktrav, let me know if you need a good Ittok LVII mstangt1965@verizon.net
roscoeiii's avatar
roscoeiii
1,155 posts
 
And please let us know how the P75 stacks up against your new GCPH.

I have heard that the P75 in PE mode with a low impedance cart like the 20X2L or XX-2 punches well above its weight class.
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