Ortofon 2M Black vs, Clearaudio Maestro

Almandog; I've also heard from others that if you're considering the Ortofon 2M Black the Dynavector 20XH is a much better sounding cartridge in that same price range. My friend in Tampa tells me though that the Maestro is a big step up from the Virtuoso so hard to say how the Maestro might compare to the 20XH. Thanks for your comments.

So Bob, if I understand you correctly you're saying that in order of quality its the Maestro, Virtuoso, 20XH and then 2M?

I currently have a 20XL, and am considering a 2M Black, sounds like it may be a lateral or downward move?

I have my 2m black on a vpi scout. Before the black I had a virtuoso. Although both are fine carts, I like the black better with this particular turntable. I have a cj pv-15 tube preamp if that's helpful. The virtuoso I found to be a bit on the dry side. Great dynamics, more detail in the highs and mids, more air and extension The black sounds both warmer and with a bigger soundstage and more extended bass. Since I listen to a lot of jazz and rock those are important qualities.

Sabocat59
I have my 2m black on a vpi scout. Before the black I had a virtuoso. Although both are fine carts, I like the black better with this particular turntable. I have a cj pv-15 tube preamp if that's helpful. The virtuoso I found to be a bit on the dry side. Great dynamics, more detail in the highs and mids, more air and extension The black sounds both warmer and with a bigger soundstage and more extended bass. Since I listen to a lot of jazz and rock those are important qualities.

I wonder if this can be attributed to the 2M Black's removable stylus assembly? I own the Virtuoso, and one of the things I like about it is it doesn't seem to add anything extra of its own to the sound. I don't find it either recessed or forward, it just portrays what's on the record. This can be perceived as you say by "a bit dry". The Virtuoso has a fixed stylus assembly like an MC.

The 2M has a plastic cup that snaps into place which can perhaps be like a "resonator" and add a bit of warmth and create a bigger soundstage. Please note, I am not saying that is wrong. The 2M Black along with the Clearaudio Maestro and Virtuoso are most likely the best MMs available and I will probably buy a 2M Black as well when one comes along at a good price.

Well I don't know why the ortofon throws a bigger soundstage or has bigger bass. I should add the delineation of separate instruments is superb and the highs are quit silky. That said I still have my virtuoso, and I'll either upgrade to a maestro or over to a benz micro ace on the stylus replacement switch. (Don't ask how it happened) I'll get another jmw wand to go with the new cart so that way I can have my cake an eat it too.