Jorsan, I'm using a Dynavector 20XL cartridge.
Again, keep in mind that even with perfect setup, great equipment, some vinyl just sounds like crap. An example:
One of my first LP purchases 4 months ago was Steve Miller Fly Like an Eagle. It was $9.99 and heavy vinyl and I was excited to put it on and hear no surface noise (which was my biggest fear getting back into vinyl). It sounded crappy and when I compared to my CD (which sounded good) I was convinced something was wrong with my setup. Then over time I read more than once that particular LP was a crap resissue. I bought a MFSL reissue on eBay. Got a great copy - no noise or scratches and it sounded better. Today for kicks I pulled out my version from the 70s which earlier I wouldn't even have contemplated playing (I didn't take care of my LPs back then) since it looked in bad shape. Yes, I hear surface noise but otherwise the sound is spot on correct. With the two other versions the bass is raised, vocals recessed and sounds lifeless. This version sounds great.
I made the mistake of thinking that a 'good' pressing was simply a quiet one. I also thought MFSL were the bees knees. I was so wrong. Count me now in the category of preferring a proper/analog sounding mastering with surface noise than a quiet dull or bassy one.
If only I knew this before spending so much money on reissues and expensive MFSL on ebay.
Hope this helps.
Again, keep in mind that even with perfect setup, great equipment, some vinyl just sounds like crap. An example:
One of my first LP purchases 4 months ago was Steve Miller Fly Like an Eagle. It was $9.99 and heavy vinyl and I was excited to put it on and hear no surface noise (which was my biggest fear getting back into vinyl). It sounded crappy and when I compared to my CD (which sounded good) I was convinced something was wrong with my setup. Then over time I read more than once that particular LP was a crap resissue. I bought a MFSL reissue on eBay. Got a great copy - no noise or scratches and it sounded better. Today for kicks I pulled out my version from the 70s which earlier I wouldn't even have contemplated playing (I didn't take care of my LPs back then) since it looked in bad shape. Yes, I hear surface noise but otherwise the sound is spot on correct. With the two other versions the bass is raised, vocals recessed and sounds lifeless. This version sounds great.
I made the mistake of thinking that a 'good' pressing was simply a quiet one. I also thought MFSL were the bees knees. I was so wrong. Count me now in the category of preferring a proper/analog sounding mastering with surface noise than a quiet dull or bassy one.
If only I knew this before spending so much money on reissues and expensive MFSL on ebay.
Hope this helps.