2. analog
  3. 1186504368

New Cart? Best all around performer...MM or HO

Thinking about a new cart, while putting the system through some changes. I'm looking for a good all round performer. I listen to a variety of music. Mainly Alt-Co, Rock, Acoustic, and Jazz.

Running an MMF-5 with Slee Era Gold. I would like a good warmth, but with detail (I'd imagine that about any cart would be steps above the 1012gx in there now).

I'm wanting to spend up to about 700 or so. I've seen some CA Maestro's at that range on here before. Also, thinking about some Dyna's, Virtuoso Wood, Beta Aurum S. Or, how is the goldring S stylus...it's a perfect fit, just a stylus replacement, and said to be better.

I've read the beta aurum s is good for rock and jazz. Any other input, I'd appreciate it greatly.
pablo16
scm
313 posts
 
I had a Sumiko BPS EVO and I replaced it with the new Micro ridge version Dyna 20XH.
I liked the EVO, especially for the $$ spent.
But the Dyna simply has it all over the EVO in every way. I honestly can`t come up with a single area where the EVO might be a bit better.

A few things stand out with the Dyna that I really notice with no effort:
1) The surfaces are quieter...by far.

2) Instruments are more tuneful. Wood blocks and the like come across with more realism. I`m no wordsmith but to give an example,on Dire Straits "Down to the waterline".. I noticed the wood blocks where struck on different spots and with different force giving slight tonal differences with each strike.
Same goes for instruments across the board...IMHO

3)I can pick up more sound on lead in and I can hear and follow further back as well as the track fades off..uncanny!

This cartridge is the best I`ve ever had. I`ve been content over the years with my modest entry level equipment.
Micro Acoustics 2002e for awhile, then the Shure V15-Type V`s seemingly forever then to the aforementioned.

But, I have to say, I can see me moving on up the chain if the improvements are as noticable as this new Dyna is to me!!!

I vote for the new version Dyna 20XH
dsockel
46 posts
 
I am running a Rega P5 with a Dyna 20XH and the Graham Slee Era Gold and am happy with it.

The only comment I would have is that my CD player seems to play a little louder than the analog rig. Not necessarily sure why and doesn't make a difference. I just turn it up a hair louder for vinyl listening.
pablo16 OP
45 posts
 
Thanks Dsockel...seems like we about have a similar setup...I'm going more towards the Dyna, just hope it's warm enough...it sounds like it's detailed from all the reviews/posts, but worry that it might override warmth/musicality
pablo16 OP
45 posts
 
I think it's between these two now: Dyna 20xh and Benz Micro H2 wood body.

I can get them both for the same price. The Benz will be used, but broken in. My thinking is: a) I don't have enough time to break one in anyway, so instant changes will be nice without wondering what's to come and b) it will show me what I'm missing, or if I'm looking for something else quickly.

The benz seems like a real nice cart, as does the Dyna. I'm wondering if the benz will take me further down the road later with upgrading table, arm, etc.
More to discover