2. analog
  3. 1267375718

How long for cartridge break-in?

I have Dynavector 10x on a Rega P25 table with acrylic platter and upgraded bearings and have meticulously aligned the cartridge, adjusted VTA, using a Herbies TT mat and TT Weights center weight, etc.

However, my BCD1 CDP still sounds significantly better in terms of imaging, focus and bass impact.
I was expecting more from the TT. I have only 25 hours on the cartridge and I'm hoping more hours will refine the sound. Both the TT and CDP are being run through a McIntosh C2200 preamp.
Any recommendations, observations, reassurances?
Thanks.
Ag insider logo xs@2xjgiacalo
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
I would experiment with different VTA/SRA settings.

VTF should be set close to manufacturer's max and loading at 47K.

You did not mention what type, if any, isolation employed. Bass response and isolation can be closely related.

Most suspensions are broken in after 50 hours. There are exceptions; the 10X5 is not one of them.
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jgiacalo OP
446 posts
 
Audiofeil,
Thanks for your response.
For suspension I have some aluminum disk levellers - basically a disk insert for the stock footer that balances onto a point that restsd onto another disk with a Herbies black dot underneath; all sitting on a 2" maple board.
I'll experiment with the VTA and loading if I can figure that out. I'm using the phono board on the C2200.
cerrot's avatar
cerrot
1,700 posts
 
I would say a few hundred hours, which can be an eternity in the vinyl world. I have read that some cartridges take half their lives to break in. I have a cardas test LP with a continuous groove which helped me break in my cartridge. 2 hours on, 2 hours off, etc. I would say the most difficult component (along with phonostage and phono IC's,tonearm cable) to break in. Patience is a virtue.
Ag insider logo xs@2x
jgiacalo OP
446 posts
 
Incereasing the VTA helps significantly. Not to wait for more burnin before I decide if I like the cart. If not, any recommended cartridges?
More to discover