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Changing from an XV1-S

Hi All

I'm considering (read hankering) for a new cartridge. I have been using a Dynavector XV1-S for a while now and although it really is good I feel that other manufacturers have overtaken this recently with units that cost a 'tad' less.

It's going on my VPI Classis/ 10.5 and the new Whest PS.30RDT Special Edition/ Conrad Johnson ART MK1/ Levinson 331 Poweramp/ JM Lab Scala Utopia. The general sound from the system is excellent to bloody brilliant BUT having just heard an Ortofon Cadenza Black in the system I am led to believe that the XV1-S technology is 'getting on'.

A friend has recommended the Ortofon A90 or Lyra Titan.
Is there anything else I should look at?

My musical tastes are wide BUT do not include Opera, Classical or choir. I like vocals but love instumentals.

Thanks for your help - if I get any :)

dcarol
dcarol OP
62 posts
 
Thanks Mike.

I think I'll go the A90 route as someone else just told me it's the ONLY way to go. I'm just looking for more realism. The Cadenza Black sounded more 'real' than the XV1-S which maybe down to the newer technology. The XV1-S was better in some areas but not all.

I'll see how long it'll take my dealer to get hold of one.
stringreen's avatar
stringreen
6,399 posts
 
Did you ever think of a Sussuro by Soundsmith? When I heard it, I thought it was wonderful...maybe perfect. Tracking, quickness, musicality...really great.
cajunpepe
255 posts
 
I am in the same boat...just started a thread for help deciding among Lyra Titan, A90, and XV-1s to go on a VPI 10.5i.

Pepe
elescher's avatar
elescher
112 posts
 
Hi, I have had the A90 on a Classic table for several months now and love it. I prefer it to my previous Sota Cosmo IV table/SME iv.iv tonearm and XV1s setup. I have the Dartzeel preamp with built in phono pre. I am also using a TTweights copper peripheral ring which sounds great, and I would recommend getting.
macdadtexas
1,794 posts
 
Dcarol,

do you get any hum with the Dynavector? I am using a Grado Statement The Reference 1 with my Classic, and I get some annoying hum when the arm is over the platter.

VPI told me that just happens with that combination since the Grado is completely unshielded. I love the sound, but the hum really bothers me. I know with other VPI's there is no hum with the seperation of the motor and platter, but this bothers me.

I was thinking a new cartridge as well and the Dyna XV-1s was on my list. I was wondering if it was well shielded?

But now that you are doing the research, maybe I should try one of the cartridges that you are suggesting?/

thx.
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