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Dynavector XV-1s vs. Soundsmith The Voice?

I've been looking for a high end cartridge for my Well Tempered Reference turntable and these are the two carts which have been repeatedly recommended based on my sonic priorities and desire for a more exciting, clean, engaging listen (previously used a Koetsu Rosewood Signature).

I already purchased The Voice and expect to have one in my possession shortly. I heard an ultra high compliance one very briefly and it was an interesting and very 'different' sound than I was used to.

Can any offer any sort of comparison between these two cartridges? I mostly buy used, so the large MSRP discrepancy is mitigated.
gopher
gopher OP
499 posts
 
It went back to the seller for a couple of reasons. Acrylic body was cracked and my tone arm didn't handle the ultra high compliance special order.

The seller listed it as ultra high compliance. But listed regular high compliance specs.
doctorcilantro
59 posts
 
I see. So you thought you were getting the 22cu model but got the 28. I have a wood body version on the way.
gopher OP
499 posts
 
Honestly, the specs meant little to me as I suck at the tech part of the hobby. I wanted a Voice based on my reading of it, linked the audiogon ad to a buddy who told me it would be fine for my arm (based on the specs in ad).

Shame for the crack/compliance as the seller was a nice guy and the price was very right.

BTW--the seller did tell me after the fact that if I remain interested in the voice in the future and ever change tone arms to consider the ultra high compliance and that it was significantly better.
tom_hankins
928 posts
 
I've heard the XV-1t, XV-1s, TKR, and 17D3 several times on the new Well Tempered table and the match is great. Not sure how that works out with your table, but if I had the newer table i would use it with the Dynavector.
gopher OP
499 posts
 
Tom,

Thanks, but this thread actually came back from the dead. I've got a Zu 103 I'm using on the WTR these days and a Denon 103D sitting as a standby. Aside from liking the sound of both of them, I just don't feel that comfortable with multi-kilobuck carts.

I AM however still at a toss up as to checking out the newer WT offerings (Amadeus or Simplex) or perhaps something vintage. I had a really hard time reaching a synergy with my WTR and started fantasizing about other decks as I struggled to get things sounding nice. Now as they finally do, my mind still wanders on occasion...
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