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VPI Cartridge People: What next?

OK, vinyl troopers, so it's getting to be time for a new cartridge, at least pretty soon.  My Dynavector XX-2 MkII has served me faithfully and is likely headed for replacement in the months ahead, so where do I go now?  I've previously moved up from Dynavector Karat to the XX-2 MkII, and that brought nice improvement, but what next?  System page is listed, but in short I'm a 99% analog only guy with VPI 10.5 arm > VPI Aries turntable > McIntosh C2300 tube MC phono.  This rig sits on a Gingko Cloud stand and heavyweight Bright Star rack. 

Trouble is, good cartridges are obviously very expensive and tough to demo.  My goal: I'm looking for the ultimate VPI-arm compatible cartridge for use with this rig. Move up in the Dynavector line? Stay put with XX-2 MkII?  Lyra cartridges have good reviews and sound tempting.  Soundsmith?  Koetsu?  Can I do make a meaningful improvement over the Dyna XX-2 MkII for less than $3K?  Listen mainly to all kinds of music and value soundstaging and image depth. Leaning slightly more Romantic than Analytical/HiFi in my audio tastes.

Have I reached the end of the line using VPI Aries with VPI 10.5 Classic 3 arm as a platform? Bring me the truth based on solid experience, folks!

Your wisdom and experiences are much appreciated in advance.  Thanks!
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jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
For the most part, a cartridge with a weight >7 grams and a compliance >10 are best suited for VPI arms.

That said, Dynavectors and Lyras seem to be very popular choices for VPI tables/arms. Sure, you are not limited to that, but I have heard it is best to stay within the guidelines in my first sentence. So Koetsu is not such a good choice due to low compliance.

I was running a Dynavector XX-2 mkII previously, and changed to a Ortofon Cadenza Bronze several months ago. I wouldn't say it is better, but different. The Dynavector was a bit faster and revealing, whereas the Bronze is a bit sweeter and more musical. Which is "better" probably varies from recording to recording.

From my understanding, the Cadenza Black may be quicker, like the Dynavector line.

Happy Hunting,
John
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,486 posts
 
I'm using an Ortofon Winfield which you can get new in your price range. Load it at 1000 ohms and smile.  My advice is to try your turntable without the Gingko.  It absolutely ruined the sound of my VPI, but every system is different.
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islandmandan
1,260 posts
 
You didn't mention why you think a new cartridge is needed. Is it due to a worn stylus? I sent my XX2MKII to Soundsmith, and had their top-of-the-line ruby cantilever/stylus replacement done, and it came back a much better sounding cartridge than when it was new, and at that time, it was under $400.

I was using a Scout Signature back then. For an upgrade, restored a Garrard 401, built a plinth, am using a Dynavector 501 arm. A large leap in performance over the Scout, and much more elegant to look at as well.

You might give consideration to re-tipping your Dynavector, and upgrading your turntable/tonearm, or just do the re-tip, and reevaluate after hearing the cart on your current 'table/arm.

Regards,
Dan


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