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Matching Cartridge to Hovland Phono

Question: I have the Hovland HP-100 with the MC 63db step-up transformer. Looking at their specs (below) is a Dynavector 20xl a good 'match' to this phono? I have some difficulty understanding what to look for in getting an ideal match.

Specs for the DV 20xl:

SPECIFICATIONS
Type High/Low output moving coil cartridge with flux damper and softened magnetism
Output Voltage 2.8mV / 0.3mV (at 1KHz, 5cm/sec.)
Channel Separation 25 dB (at 1KHz)
Channel balance 1.0 dB (at 1KHz)
Frequency response 20 - 20,000Hz (± 2dB)
Compliance 12 x 10-6 cm/dyn
Tracking force 1.8 - 2.2grams
DC resistance 150 ohms / 5 ohms
Recommended load
resistance > 1Kohms / > 30 ohms
Cantilever 6mm length, hard aluminium pipe
Stylus Micro-Ridge
Weight 8.6 grams


Hovland HP-100:
Phono Stage (46 dB gain)
Minimum input voltage: approx. 0.7 millivolt @ 1000 Hz
Input impedance: 1 meg ohm
Frequency response: ±0.15 dB, 25 Hz - 25 kHz
S/N ratio: 60 dB below 2 mv input wideband
75 dB below 2 mv input w/ 400 Hz high-pass filter

MC Phono Stage with MC-7 Transformer (63 dB gain)
Maximum input voltage: approx. 1.0 millivolt @ 1000 Hz
Input impedance: approx. 530 Ω (provision for reduced loading)
stickman451
fosse
47 posts
 
0,3 mV output should do, but you could very well go with a bit higher output (I have talk to Alex about this befor ordering my phonostage).

I am using the Hovland MM myself with an outboard step-up (26dB) for my XV-1s (0,3mV). In my opinion your combination (arm and phonostage) deserves a better cartridge than the one your planning to use. Hope you don't mind me saying so.

I'm using Telefunken tubes in both phono- and linestage. Not as bold sounding as some tubes, but the soundstage depth and dynamics are incredible.
stickman451 OP
553 posts
 
Thanks for the feedback...I only used the 20XL since I previously had it on my Scout...I would agree, I should move to a better cartridge (as soon as funds permit)... I spoke to Hovland and they said that there should be no issues using the 20XL in conjunction with the HP-100... They did suggest that I get a 'better' cartridge at some point, but that for now I may want to look at other cables for the arm... I have heard good reports on the Hovland cable before, so I may try it soon...
fosse
47 posts
 
I have tested quite a few cartridges on the DV507MKII through the last two years (Koetsu Urushi, DV Te Kaitora Rua, Shelter 90X, Denon DL103, DV XV-1s). Matching step-ups is of great importance with cartridges (far more important than with active units). In my opinion, and in my setup, the XV-1s is the better choice for this arm.

Personally I prefer the combination with a lighter headshell than the original Dynavector (gets to heavy in the bass).
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