My system is:
VPI Avenger
Zesto Andros 1.2 Phono Stage
Primaluna HP Integrated Amp
Sonus Faber Olympica 3 Speakers
Wywires Platinum Cables
The other issue with putting a more expensive cartridge on the table is what led me to the Avenger in the first place: the ease of adding 2 arms. By the time I add a second arm with tower and another excellent mono cartridge, it becomes difficult to put all the money into one cartridge. I need to spread it out. Really, the only other option in the VPI line from the Prime is the HRX or Avenger. There will soon be a Prime Signature out, but it will be a while probably. I'm also trying to keep some sense on this for me personally. Some may have no issues with spending that much on a catridge, and we all have to draw the budget line somewhere on certain things. Music is very important to me in life, but it is not the only thing. An extra $3000 is a lot. The main reason I sprung for the Avenger is a got a pretty good price on it. I can live without getting every ounce out of my gear. I won't let that diminish my enjoyment of the Avenger. But if others want to go with the a premium price point on cartridge, more power to you! To each his own. But price is no indication of performance - one thing I've learned in this hobby. Cartridges are some of the most subjective things in systems. I personally don't like lyra cartridges at all - just no my cup of tea. So I'd rather have a cheaper Ortofon more suited to my musical tastes/preferences than a Lyra that costs 5x the amount. Just an example.
VPI Avenger
Zesto Andros 1.2 Phono Stage
Primaluna HP Integrated Amp
Sonus Faber Olympica 3 Speakers
Wywires Platinum Cables
The other issue with putting a more expensive cartridge on the table is what led me to the Avenger in the first place: the ease of adding 2 arms. By the time I add a second arm with tower and another excellent mono cartridge, it becomes difficult to put all the money into one cartridge. I need to spread it out. Really, the only other option in the VPI line from the Prime is the HRX or Avenger. There will soon be a Prime Signature out, but it will be a while probably. I'm also trying to keep some sense on this for me personally. Some may have no issues with spending that much on a catridge, and we all have to draw the budget line somewhere on certain things. Music is very important to me in life, but it is not the only thing. An extra $3000 is a lot. The main reason I sprung for the Avenger is a got a pretty good price on it. I can live without getting every ounce out of my gear. I won't let that diminish my enjoyment of the Avenger. But if others want to go with the a premium price point on cartridge, more power to you! To each his own. But price is no indication of performance - one thing I've learned in this hobby. Cartridges are some of the most subjective things in systems. I personally don't like lyra cartridges at all - just no my cup of tea. So I'd rather have a cheaper Ortofon more suited to my musical tastes/preferences than a Lyra that costs 5x the amount. Just an example.