Changing from an XV1-S

I don't think it's that simple Stickman.

Given the other system components, most notably the phono preamp, are capable of resolving the "better" cartridge, I believe it's safe to say that any of the 3 would provide a noticeable level of improvement to my ears. OTOH I can think of other cartridges (all more expensive than the 20X) that wouldn't float MY boat.

Again and I don't want to beat this to death but cartridges, like speakers and cables, are very listener dependent.

One man's ceiling is another man's floor as the song goes.

I understand, it's not that simple. I was being a little facetious...

This does show I think, how challenging and frustrating it can be to move to a new cartridge. I guess that you have to rely to a great extent on your dealer's expertise and experience.

Of course, my dealer really likes the Dynavector Te Kaitora Rua...ARGGGGGGGGGGGGG

Oh yeah, my phono is the Hovland HP-100...

I think it is an adventure to buy a new cartridge , imagine all the different designthoughts implemented in the different "top" contenders , they all put a different shade on the music and can bring different views as to what is "right " reproduction of music .
I have not heard many heartbreaking anlogue set ups at dealers in holland ,i dont know how that is in the states , I would definetely trust your own ears not a dealer, a lot of them would sell the one with biggest margin on it i reckon.

I heard the hovland has a fine mc/mm stage in it

"... years in the hobby and business has taught me the latest is not always the greatest"
Well said Bill.

Usually I stay out of threads that venture of into personal preferences because it’s mostly a lost cause in that everyone is entitled to their own opinion no matter how I feel about their point of view. However, I do enjoy learning why individuals have specific preferences. It seems like there are a good many valid pints on this topic. However, if the guy doesn't like the sound of his current cart and wants to change (only the cartridge)...

I've heard and set up a few of these "top" cartridges in my system or extremely familiar systems of friends. At this level of performance (not cost) it ultimately boils down to listener preference in addition to the way the arm, table and downstream components integrate. (Un)fortunately there are very few systems that are alike in total presentation of sound, components, and environment. Each becomes unique from that context. However, even though different, systems can be tailored to deliver the music (your favorite kind) the way you, the owner, wants it.

Then there are those of us who want the natural face of an incredibly wide range of music genre and styles without the makeup for better or for worse. Thom, what was the definition of insanity again?

Dre