No deep bass or highs: VTF or VTA issue?


Background:

I've been using JM Lab Micro Utopia monitors and recently added a sub (via Bryston outboard crossover). Used my music server to dial in the sub (for convenience) and after dialing it in I noticed that my analog rig is not sounding anywhere as good as my digital.

I tried comparing a few LPs to their digital counterparts and in comparison the LPs sounded dark and sluggish.

Relevant equipment:

Analog:
- Dynavector XV-1s
- Scoutmaster / JMW 9 Signature / SDS / Super platter etc
- Aesthetix Rhea Signature with NOS tubes

Digital:
Music server -> Benchmark DAC

I used a Mint tractor to align the cartridge, and the VTF on the XV-1s is around 2.0g. I had never done anything about VTA, so I tried raising it. It got somewhat brighter, but now in comparison it lacks deep bass AND the highs of the digital version. Switching back and forth it's like the vinyl is just midrange (that's an exaggeration to illustrate my point).

I also have a Manley Steelhead phono stage; I should probably swap that with the Rhea to make sure the phono stage isn't the culprit but my gut tells me that it's the setup.

Any advice on what adjustments to try would be much appreciated.

Thanks.
madfloyd
a good digital source/recording almost always will be better ( quality/quantity )on bass than an analog one

Not my experience at all, but we certainly use different system components and hear differently.
Thanks, Raul. With the Bryston I can easily mute the subs (which I have done at times while making adustments) and of course all sources are going through the same preamp.

I thought of switching back to my Dynavector 20XL but it takes me several hours to set overhang (using Mint tractor) and the thought of that is somewhat discouraging. However, it's a good idea since I did buy the XV-1s used. The seller seemed quite respected here on A'gon and claimed low hours so hopefully it's not the cartridge, but you never know.
Quick question: when you adjust VTA, can it affect overhang? My brain keeps telling me that raising VTA would pull back the stylus...?
Dear Madfloyd: How " things " goes before you add the sub? the analog quality performance was better than the digital one?
Btw, check that the tonarm wires are connected to the XV-1 pins in the right way.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.