Cartridge upgrade for SME 20/2A???


Okay, it's almost time for a cartridge upgrade for my SME 20/2A (with SME 4.5 arm). Currently I am using a Dynavector 17d mkII and though it sounds pretty good, I'm also pretty sure that the cartridge - along with the phono interconnect - is a limiting factor. Any thoughts that you guys/girls might have would be most appreciated, including information as to the compatability of the SME arm with certain types of cartridges. I'm not even sure of budget yet, though I realize I will have to spend at least double the amount of the 17d mkII to get a real improvement.
esoxhntr
Esoxhntr,

I noticed that you have all Blue Circle electronics. If you like the sound of a particular line of electronics, it does make sense to stick with that line all the way through a system. That would argue in favor or staying with the BC phono.

However, the most likely area for an exception is with choice of phono stage because it is much harder to get a compatible match between a phono stage and cartridge than between phono stage and linestage.

I am not familiar with the BC phono stage so I can't comment on whether to replace it or not. But, the advice given by some to at least consider alternatives is reasonable. You may very well be looking at having to replace both your cartridge and your phonostage to get a meaningful improvement.

Your Dynavector is sort of in the sweetspot, price wise, for cartridges, so you might have to spend considerably more than double its price to get a big improvement in performance (declining marginal return is a bitch). That "better" cartridge may or may not work well with your BC phonostage and/or it may make evident weaknesses that you will want to ameliorate.

The cartridges that I am familiar with that I think would be substantially better are quite pricey -- Lyra Titan and Transfiguration Orpheus. Both sound great in my Vector Arm/Basis Debut (vacuum)/Viva Fono rig. The Orpheus I have also heard sounding very good on an SME arm/Roksan table combination.
Most of the above was on Merlin VSM-Se's, which were just upgraded to MX'e' versions end of 06.

To be honest, the Xono didn't work out for me either. I preferred the Blue Circle's presentation for sure, although once I heard some detail I was missing in the 27pi, I had to move on..... to find both. Still the 27pi is killer good for the $$$, and in your case system synergy too.

I know Gilbert likes a challenge, maybe a Hybrid or full tube phono would be sweet with a GZPZ power supply.....

The Tg Audio and BC gear REALLY go well together. AC, IC, and Speaker. The High Purity is something else. If you do go that route, I'd love to get your feedback.

Unless you can afford the very best I beleive very much in complimetary colorations. The lush midrange of the Koetsu is ideal for your M/L CLS.
It does present some real problems. Price. To get the frequency extremes you'll need one of the more expensive models. At least a Rosewood Platinum Signature or higher.
At the risk of asking a stupid question...is the SME 5 pin din connector different than other din connectors, or will any 5 pin din connector fit the iv.v arm?
Dear Esoxhntr: It is similar to any other tonearm DIN pin 5 connector ( well the SME one is angled instead straight like other ones ) but different to other DIN pin5 connectors that are used in electronic devices ( preamp, amps, medical machines, etc, etc. )

regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.