Vinyl Front End Upgrade

Elinor: I agree that $3K is not a lot of money when we're talking cartridge and phonostage combined--even used. But I'm hesitant to spend much more given the fact that all would be preceded by a Scout/JMW9, which is stock except for the 300rpm motor. I had one dealer tell me that in a set up like mine the cartridge would be the determining factor and that I could "comfortably" spend up to $4K on a cartridge alone. While I'm not thoroughly swayed by the notion of a "Linn Hierarchy" it doesn't appear to make much sense to throw $4K at a cartridge for an $1800 turntable/arm combination. My goal here is to simply bring my analogue rig up to the sonic standard set by my digital front end. In fact, purchasing the Esoteric X-03SE is what started this "whole thing" since it so handily smoked my turntable run through the phonostage on my ARC SP16 I couldn't stand listening to records anymore. Thus the sale of the SP16, which was replaced by an LS26 leaving me "phonoless" for the past 6 months. Having said that, I think I can get some pretty good results from the Scout if I get the "right" cartridge/phonostage combination. I've got the table mounted on a Target PS-1 shelf which is bolted to 5/8 birch ply that itself is bolted to the wall studs. Then our whole entertainment center slides over the entire assembly leaving the table suspended in a safe and (largely) vibration free environment. (Check out my system photos) I've replaced the MDF shelf on the Target stand with a Simposium Svelt Shelf and am running VPI's own IC (2 meters worth) down to where the phonostage will be. I did the table and cartridge set up using VPI's jig but would be open to suggestions as to how I might get the set up tolerances even tighter. No SDS or record cleaning machine (my Nitty Gritty blew up a number of years ago but my vinyl is very, very clean). Anyway, that's the deal. One last thing--if I were to say what my primary sonic goals are for my vinyl front end it would be: dynamics, PRAT, low noise (leaning toward solid state) and speed/articulation across the frequency spectrum. Hopefully some of you can offer some suggestions. You've never let me down before! Oh, one last thing. Under one scenario I keep the Dyna 20XM and throw the whole $3K at a phonostage, upgrading the cartridge later. Two under consideration: the new Pass XP15 and the new Whest PS30.RDT. Thoughts?

Dodgealum,

I am actually advocating spending much less than $3K on your current analog particularly considering your goals many or all of which can be better realized simply through better cartridge alignment. Alignment by two null points is effective and quick but it will not give you everything of which your cartridge is capable. A Feickert or Mint Protractor which enables you to make alignment along a full arc from the leading edge of an LP to the inside grooves plus the null points will be an enlightening experience to you. The VPI Motor Controller will also be a big step forward. Your shelf is fine. A record cleaning machine and effective cleaning fluid and brush are equally important. I don't know much about your VPI RCA cables but there are endless numbers out there made by companies specializing in that field. I suggest you use The Cable Company as your source to try these at very little or no cost to you. Only after you have optimized your current system would I advocate spending more on a cartridge or a new phono section.

I get the feeling that you should slow down, but then I'm not without analog. I was able to solve my problem for under a grand, but I knew what I wanted. Is there no site for VPI users? You, obviously, need something better than the ARC SP16's phono stage. I can't see giving up a brand-new Dynavector, and would concentrate on a phono stage.

All: Thanks for the suggestions. I've emailed for further information on the Best Tractor. I've always felt uneasy about the VPI jig's reliance on the cartridge body as a visual reference and the Best Tractor appears to correct this by allowing alignment by the cantilever along multiple points on the arc. This should help me get the best out of my current setup without a lot of money invested. Any thoughts on the Whest PS30/PS30RDT or the new Pass? BTW, the VPI cable is specially made for them by one of the leading cable manufacturers (cannot remember which) and came highly recommended by several VPI owners.

I ended up buying a Whest PS30R so we will see what that does. I'll check back in once I get it inserted into my system and then again after I check the cartridge using the Best Tractor. Thanks everyone (again!).