2. analog
  3. 1214659530

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
sdrenslow OP
65 posts
 
I received the cartridge (Lyra Skala) yesterday and was up until 2:00AM installing it. I know, probably not advisable, but I didn't manage to break anything! After 2 hours of listening, initial impressions: a lighter, airier sound. There seems to be better delineation in the high frequency range (such as cymbals), more air around instruments, a more three dimensional image to individual instruments, and a better sense of depth. The cartridge (at least the way I have it set up right now and without break-in) seems to be somewhat leaner than the dynavector. This seems to be just what I am looking for... initial impressions very favorable!
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
I would say that your listening impressions resemble my own listening to a Lyra vs. a Dynavector. I am a bit curious though how this is just what you are looking for.

In your original post you said " 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."

From that original description, I would not have guessed that the faster, leaner sound of the Lyra was what you were looking for. I hope you enjoy it though.

Cheers,
John
sdrenslow OP
65 posts
 
John,

Please see my post on 7-3-08. I found my system overly smooth, distant and warm once I had a chance to listen to it after having made all of the changes to my front end (turntable, phonostage, interconnects). My goals for my system as a whole are "dynamic, full range, extended, well-controlled bass, wide sound stage, and likely err on the side of a touch of warmth..." The faster, leaner sound of the Lyra seems to have balanced out the overly smooth, warm character I noted earlier. I now have a more detailed sound, but no sense of excessive sibilance or piercing/overly bright/fatiguing highs. I am hoping the bass fills in a little as the cartridge breaks in. I had a chance to purchase the Skala new at the price of the other cartridges I was considering and decided to take the plunge...so far, so good...
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
Ahhhh....now that seems to make more sense.

Happy Listening,
John
jfrech's avatar
jfrech
1,816 posts
 
Hi Scott, glad to hear that on your new Lyra ! I think it will open up a little more and everything should have a better ease and flow with a little time on it. It just get's better...
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