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2K-3K Cartridge for SME10/BAT VK-P10SE superpak

I am on the last step of upgrading my analog front end. I am using SME 10 with M10 tonearm (part of performance package, similar to SME 309) with a BAT VK-P10 SE with superpak phonostage. I am currently using a Dynavector 20XL (output 0.25mV) using the step-up transformer in the BAT. Rest of the system is cardas golden reference tonearm cable (currently being reterminated with XLR connectors by Cardas), Golden reference balanced ICs, BAT VK-300x SE integrated amp, cardas neutral reference speaker cable in internal biwire configuration, and Aerial 7bs. I listen to rock and small combo Jazz (Blue Notes, Coltrane, Bill Evans, Miles Davis). My listening priorities are a very dynamic, full range sound with extended, well-controlled bass, wide soundstage, and likely err on the side of a touch of warmth. I want to avoid forward sounding highs and am very sensitive to excessive sibilance. I have no complaints with the Dynavector, but can't help but wonder what a more expensive cartridge would bring. Cartridges I am considering based on reviews and forums are

Sumiko Celebration II (based on several SME users recommendations)
Dynavector XX2 Mk II (I love my Dynavector)
Lyra Helikon or Helikon SL
Lyra Skala (this would be a stretch of my budget)
Ortofon Jubilee

Thanks for your suggestions.
sdrenslow
hamburg
69 posts
 
I also have the vkp10se superpak but use it with the VPI TNT6 table. I have tried the shelter cartridges and thought they were great. The best for me is the Air Tight. Works well with the sensitivity of the BAT. I also have not had problems with purchasing cartridges from Audiogon. Many fellow Audiogoners swap cartridges to see if it sounds better in their system. As a result, very few hours one added to the cartridge. I for one have two cartridges sitting in storage. I have yet to list them for sale. I bet there are others that have cartridges sitting for months in limbo. At the right price take a chance.
Good Luck Richard
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Scott, you are wise to hesitate buying a used cartridge. I've bought many used items on AudiogoN and Ebay, including phono cartridges, until I learned the hard way. Once you're out a couple grand, and find out that the seller was not truthful, well let's just say it makes for an unpleasant experience. It's harder to judge a cartridge's true condition over the internet than it is to judge a phono preamp, or similar larger object.

As for cartridges, if you are happy with your Dynavector 20XL, it would seem the safest move would be up the Dynavector line to the XX-2. Dynavector does make great cartridges, they are my second favorite line behind the ZYX line. In your price range, you may also want to consider the ZYX Airy 3.

BTW, very nice phono stage!

Cheers,
John
thomasheisig
568 posts
 
When I check the 2. hand cartridge section here at Audiogon, I would say, there are some terrific offers, no matter what taste one has. Lots of analog lovers have more than 1 Cartridge and are always open to try something new. I bet, there are many in real excellent condition here.
I think too, the Skala is one safe choice, never heard a Dynavector I didn't like but these Airy 3 offers are great cartridges for the money ... or this Magic Diamond for 2.5k ....
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
Zyx Airy 3 and for a bit more money/performance van den Hul Frog.

Both offer incredible speed and detail; the Frog is a bit more refined than the Airy 3.
sdrenslow OP
65 posts
 
Thanks for the responses. If I were to buy a cartridge second hand, I would want to ensure I was purchasing from the original owner. I might lean towards purchasing a Lyra second hand due to the the generous trade-in offer (e.g. $1000 towards a Skala).
As for the Zyz Airy 3- I would not have the opportunity to audition in my system before purchasing. I read the review by Art Dudley in Stereophile- he concludes that he prefers the Ortofon Jubilee or Helikon SL (both on my short list) for a bit less money!
Any comments regarding the Ortofon Jubilee or Sumiko Celebration?

Thanks again,

Scott
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