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Dynavector cartridge upgrade decision

I can't resist upgrading. I prefer the sound of my Dynavector 20XL over the Shelter 501MkII that I originally had, so I'm thinking to stay within the Dynavector line.

I know that an XX2 would be a good value upgrade, however I'm worried that I'd still have the upgrade bug after that so I'm considering the Te Kaitora Rua or (gulp!) the XV-1.

From reading historical posts and Dynavector's site, I'm getting the impression that the highs on the XV-1 may be more analytical versus the 'silk-like treble' of the Rua. I'm searching for both detail and lush-ness so I don't want something 'dark' sounding.

Can anyone describe the sonic differences between the two? Is it a matter of system synergy, or personal taste?

My equipment: VPI Scoutmaster w/sig JMW 9, SDS, Aesthetix Rhea Signature phono stage, ARC Ref 3 preamp, Theta Citadel 1.5 amps. Speakers are Aerial 9s but will be soon auditioning Vandersteen 5As.

Thanks in advance.
madfloyd
kurt_tank
1,189 posts
 
I too believe the XV-1S is one of the true reference cartridges that you'll probably never upgrade from. (I have no plans on upgrading from this cartridge, after having tried four other cartridges in as many years.)

Good Luck!
halcro's avatar
halcro
2,664 posts
 
I have the XV1s also, and you will not be disappointed if you buy it. However I also have the ZYX Universe .24 Copper, and it has an emotional response unlike any cartridge I've ever heard. Oh yes......it also has one of the sweetest most liquid treble performances you could imagine.
madfloyd OP
411 posts
 
Referring to Raul's post, how does the tonearm make that much difference? I thought the cartridge and phonostage were the things that shaped the sound. Should I be considering a different tonearm than the JMW 9 sig?

What does the Zyx Universe cost approximately? Is there any other brands I should be considering - that are lush and detailed?
thomasheisig
568 posts
 
The problem with the Tonearms is, you will always know it better later (unfortunately). I have a few and made all the comparisons and indeed, the differences with a cartridge can be small, but it can can be huge too.
It depends on the weight of the cartridge and how much energy the cartridge puts into the Arm.
From my experience the Zyx are not critical, they work very good with lots of Arms. I did always enjoy listening to their Karat 17 model or the Kaitora. I think, when the XV-1s stretches you limit, there is no need to go for it.
tfkaudio
591 posts
 
Referring to Raul's post... The tonearm is the single MOST important factor when choosing a cartridge. The weight and compliance of the cartridge have to match the effective mass of the tonearm. That's why you liked the Dynavector more than the Shelter. The Dyna isn't necessarily better than the Shelter, but it's a much better match to the JMW9 Signature arm.
You can opt for a different tonearm. There are a lot of great ones out there. But you can get a whole lot from the JMW9 arm with a better cartridge, as long as it is suited to the JMW9 arm. Benz Micro, Lyra, Dynavector are all generally well suited.
I use a Dynavector DV20 on one arm, and a Benz L2 Wood on the other wand. You might try the Benz line. I really like them.

Cheers.

Tom
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