How long for cartridge break-in?


I have Dynavector 10x on a Rega P25 table with acrylic platter and upgraded bearings and have meticulously aligned the cartridge, adjusted VTA, using a Herbies TT mat and TT Weights center weight, etc.

However, my BCD1 CDP still sounds significantly better in terms of imaging, focus and bass impact.
I was expecting more from the TT. I have only 25 hours on the cartridge and I'm hoping more hours will refine the sound. Both the TT and CDP are being run through a McIntosh C2200 preamp.
Any recommendations, observations, reassurances?
Thanks.
Ag insider logo xs@2xjgiacalo
I would also experiment with the mat. I found the Herbies mat to work incredbly well on one table, but not sound as good as a stock felt mat on another. Also, I would give yourself some time to adjust to what analog does better than digital. You are used to listening to a very good CD player and it does a lot of things well.

Finally, I have found listening to be less enjoyable when I mix analog and digital. Try just sitting down quietly and listening to a record, rather than going back and forth to compare. That is really tiresome stuff.
Your problem is the Rega's lack of proper speed stability and its large amout of stylus drag. As for break-in, I suggest a very powerful 45RPM dance single with heavy bass modulation. Turn the volume down and play it over and over a few times each day. This will accelerate break-in tremendously.
Remember to re-adjust VTA with break in. Also when you adjust your VTA it changes your tracking force so that need to be checked and adjusted with each change.
Good luck!