2. analog
  3. 119329-538

Should I consider a cartridge upgrade?

How "much" cartridge is too much?
Hi All,

I currently am very happy with my VPI Scoutmaster/JMW9/Soundsmith Paua/edensound Terracone footers/Edensound Terrastone platforms for TT and separate for motor/edensound brass damping weights for motor and plinth/Transparent Reference MM2 phono/Herron VTPH-2 analog setup.

I have another year or more before I need my Paua retipped.

I am wondering how much higher I can go with cartridge price/performance with this setup and still reap the benefits of the cartridge? I used a Zephyr Mk II before that, which I love; I did notice a significant improvement going to the Paua.

I know some will suggest just buying a different TT, but this was my late father's table, and I would like to stick with it.

By the way, the current setup sounds awesome, so I will be fine with retipping my Paua and sticking with it if that seems best.

Thanks for your thoughts!
Arsh

Main System:

VPI Scoutmaster, Soundsmith Paua, VPI SDS, Transparent Reference MM2 phono, Herron VTPH-2, Herron IC, Musical Fidelity NuVista CDP, Transparent Ultra MM and Transparent digital cable, Musical Fidelity NuVista 800, Transparent Reference MM2 SC, Wilson Audio Sasha, Transparent Powerbank 8 and Transparent power cords, Terracones and Terrastone platforms, Atacama Equinox rack.

arsh
onhwy61's avatar
onhwy61
5,347 posts
 
To expand on my earlier comments.  I think you have a very nice analog setup that should perform very well.  Any significant upgrade will cost you significant dollars.  I actually think your cartridge is probably your strongest element followed by the phono preamp, tonearm and lastly the table.

My recommendation is to stay with what you have.  That said, Music Direct offers a VPI Classic Signature SE for $5,000.  Alternatively you could also purchase a record cleaning machine.

http://www.musicdirect.com/p-370603-vpi-classic-signature-se-turntable.aspx
arsh OP
367 posts
 
Thanks for your further comments onhwy61. Your points are well taken. I forgot to note my record cleaning machine: Clearaudio Smart Matrix Professional.  I am indeed quite satisfied with what I have. I would almost certainly have just bought another table, but since this one was my dad's before he died, I would like to keep using it. Hence my desire to "max out" its performance. Perhaps that is folly.  I take it from your comments that in your opinion changing the cartridge or Tonearm will not yield a significant improvement? Thanks again.
arsh OP
367 posts
 
If anyone has performed the procedure to replace a JMW9 arm with the 10.5 inch 3D arm, please let me know. I'd like to learn more about it, and it's very difficult  to get info from VPI, as I've called there numerous times. I have not found any instructions, videos, or descriptions online. Thanks.
bobvinyl
4 posts
 
I think it would be less expensive to see a psychologist for your cartridge issues.   No you don't need more cartridge you could have less cartridge and be fine.  Its the OCD taking control of you fight it!
arsh OP
367 posts
 
Ha! Thanks bobvinyl. As luck would have it, my wife is a psychologist, and she already tells me I'm crazy on a regular basis. I have come to accept  my diagnosis. :)  in all seriousness, though, I know I don't have a problem with the set up. Just wondering how much better it can be, as so many of us with this affliction do.
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