VPI Classic 3 anyone try a Denon 103R

The Dyna 20x2 and XX-2 mate REALLY well with the Classic arm.

Brf,

The xx-2 is twice the $$.. Can you tell me the differences?

How about that with the Dyana 75 phono..
Or Rouge Ares? Or ??

Recommendations?

Bobc

I have a Classic with both weights. I use the Denon 100th anniversary model, another variation on the 103. I noticed that Soundsmith made a VPI specific cartridge and that is is a lot heavier than most other cartridges. I got a gram weight to add to the tone arm, it is flat and sits between the cartridge body and arm. I added blu tack between arm and weight, and between weight and cartridge. It sounds amazing, I am completely happy. I use Kimber silver cables into and out of a Parasound JC-3. It is dead quiet and compares to my Ayre CD player. It may be an old design, but the performance leaves nothing wanting.

It sounded so good that I demoed the ZU version of the DL-103R on the JMW 10-inch arm at audio shows (ZU DL-103R on the Classic 4). It also worked well on the JMW 12-inch arm. There is also one shown on a recent post on the Asylum by Seadog. I did not try the standard 103R.

The Dyna 20x2 and the XX-2 definitely have a familiar sound. I would say that the 20x2 gets you 90% of the XX-2, but that last 10% can be expensive. I found the XX-2 better at retrieving subtle difference and micro dynamics