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Cartridge for VPI Classic?

I just sold my VPI Scout to replace it with a VPI Classic.
My system is as follows :
Whest PS.30R Phono Amp
Musical Fidelity A5CR Pre Amp
2xMusical Fidelity A3CR Power Amps biamping
Proac D15
Nordost Red Dawn/SPM Interconnects/Speaker Cable (I may look to change these)

I like my system but I'm a bit disappointed with the slight harshness in the top end, especially in reproduction of sibilance which I would like a cartridge to handle well.

I'm considering the following:
Benz Glider SL
Benz Wood SL
Dynavector 17D3
Dynavector XX2 MKII
Soundsmith VPI Zephyr

Any others that I should consider?
Any advice/experiences?
ecosse_011172
salmonsc
66 posts
 
@Jazzgene - Is this the regular Grado Statement or one of the 1.5mv versions VPI had made for them? I wish a Grado for my Scoutmaster but am a little conflicted as to whether I should get one of their regular low output models or one of those custom made for VPI (which are somewhere in between their high & low output cartridges).
jazzgene
145 posts
 
It's the 0.5mv Statement1. Works fine with 60db gain.
salmonsc
66 posts
 
But you do dial in gain, I guess the "VPI Grado's" are designed for less adjustable phonostages.
audiohound
6 posts
 
I purchased a Dynavector XX2 MKII for my VPI Classic several months ago, upgrading from a BenzMicro Glider .8 Mv cartridge. I haven't heard the Lyra Delos, but I would never say the Dynavector is veiled. It is VERY detailed and dynamic in my system, with voices and instruments sounding real and in the room. It's a very good match for the VPI 10.5 arm.
ecosse_011172 OP
18 posts
 
In the end I ordered a Benz Wood SL, hope to hear it in around one week's time!

Thanks for all your help.
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