2. analog
  3. 1252088090

Vinyl Front End Upgrade

I've been sitting on the sidelines without vinyl playback for far too long and am looking to get back in the game. I've got a VPI Scout/JMW 9/Dynavector 20XM (1mv version). I've got no phonostage since I sold my ARC SP16 and bought an LS26. The rest of the system is an ARC SD135 driving Daedalus Audio DA-1.1's through Empirical Design cables. I've spent the last few months listening to digital source material through my Esoteric X-03SE, saving my pennies toward a vinyl upgrade. My plan is to keep the Scout and work on a cartridge and phonostage pairing that will give me vinyl playback as good or better than what I'm getting on the digital side. I've got $3K to spend on new or used components. I'd appreciate some suggestions.
128x128dodgealum
mmakshak
589 posts
 
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.
dodgealum's avatar
dodgealum OP
1,406 posts
 
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.
dodgealum's avatar
dodgealum OP
1,406 posts
 
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!).
cmalak
681 posts
 
So how is the Whest phono mating with your Dyna20XM cart? Have you been able to match/better your Esoteric digital front end?
dodgealum's avatar
dodgealum OP
1,406 posts
 
Cmalak: So far I'm very impressed. I'm still playing with gain and loading options and will check back in after I've had some time with the unit.
More to discover