Kiseki Purple Heart NS to Dynavector xv-1s ??

Testpilot...Why?

I've owned both but in different systems at different times, so no direct comparison. With that as a context, my impression of the Kiseki was that it is a very smooth, very seductive cartridge that excels with certain types of music and is very pleasant to listen to, but may be lacking in transparency and dynamics. In the end, I found it to be lovely, but just didn't find it convincing.

The Dynavector, on the other hand, was incredibly dynamic and a much stronger all-around performer on all types of music. I felt the build was also more robust.  There have been some concerns in the reliability of the Kiseki, though I personally experienced no such problems in the fairly short period of time that I owned one.

@jim94025, my first two samples of the Purple Heart NS were defective.  The first exchange was painless but my second return was a nightmare.  My Dealer ended up taking care of me but the distributor / manufacture was a PIA.  I’m not sure if they still have QC issues, but twice burned, I’m not taking another chance.

the Dyna is a very dynamic and fast cartridge with incredible bass.  It tracks very well, has excellent QC and reputation.  It doesn’t favour one music genres over another.  

The Dynavector it is then!

I had a lower end Kiseki in the 80s called a Miltek Aurora and it was very laid back and smooth. Not for me. Dealer said it was the house sound of Kiseki. 

@rauliruegas , Can you compare sonically the XV-1s to the XV-1t. They are very similar cartridges but the t is almost twice as expensive as the s. Both are highly regarded.