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Cartridge Upgrade From Dynavector XX2 mkii

I got back into vinyl about 2 years ago and since that time have bought quite a number of fine LPs and wish to upgrade my cartridge. In my analog front end (Basis 2500 Sig, Vector 4, Herron VTPH-2) I think there is room for a better transducer. My current Dynavector unit I have liked for its bass response but what I seek more than any other factor is greater transparency without losing bass response. Like all of us, I want better sound.

I am looking at three well reviewed cartridges, all used from reputable sellers, with about 200 hours: Dynavector XV-1S, Ortofon Windfeld and Shelter Harmony.

Interested in your guidance since auditions not possible. I have heard each of these sound fine in different systems than mine. Rest of my gear: Esoteric amp and pre, Magico V3, Transparent MM2 cabling.

I remember reading years ago how people who went back to vinyl simply did not use their high end CD or SACD players anymore. I thought that seemed like an overstatement at the time-- but for me it has become reality. I recently for a friend compared my copy of Dire Straits Love Over Gold SHM-SACD ($60) to a $2.99 used LP copy I picked up at Princeton record exchange. The LP was just so much better it was startling.
teeshot
ejlif's avatar
ejlif
1,366 posts
 
I actually downgraded from the Shelter 90x to the Dynavector XX2 mk II. Big mistake. I have a nice sounding vinyl rig but the magic was lost went I downsized on the cart. I think you are going to be thrilled with any of those 3. If it were me I'd get the Harmony since I know how great the 90X sounded. I went kind of crazy and started freaking out about surface noise and though the 90X was more prone to picking it up and remembered back to some of the lower Dynavector carts and was thinking I wasn't bothered so I jumped ship.

Bottom line is there is a reason those carts cost so much. Because they are worth it.
fjn04
1,561 posts
 
Teeshot- You may want to consider the Emt Tsd-15. I own the Tsd, and have heard the DV 20X2/L on several occasions.

Ejif- I heard the 90X, and thought it was excellent. I haven't heard, or heard much about, the Shelter 7000/9000 series. In fairness to the Dynavecter line,
the Tai Kaitora would be a more fair comparison to the 90X. I suppose in the here and now, it would be the 9000. The TKR seems to get lost in the DV shuffle, but I have heard it's a nice jump in performance from the XX-2.
hessec's avatar
hessec
59 posts
 
I have a slightly used (under 200hrs) Te Kaitora Rua I'm about to sell. I liked it better than my Lyra Skala if that's any consolation. Sold the vinyl setup. I'll be posting it soon but you may send me an email.
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islandmandan
1,260 posts
 
I've had a Dynavector XX2MKII now for many years, so many in fact, I had to have it retipped by Soundsmith, which made it a much better sounding cartridge. You might consider keeping it, and having it retipped some day.

My real secret weapon though, is a Zu Denon 103R that I sent to ESCCO in London for a cantilever/stylus upgrade. This makes this venerable cartridge a world-class, or nearly so, cartridge, at a decidedly great price.

Highly recommended.

Regards,
Dan
zd542
5,339 posts
 
I use DV myself and like their products very much. Unfortunately with phono carts, its difficult to get something to demo. You may want to give The Cable Company to see if they have something to lend you. A few years back, they said they would do it for me, but I'm not sure if they will do it for everyone. I've been doing business with them for many years so it may be an exception.

If I was looking to upgrade and couldn't get a demo, I would probably try a Shelter.
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