Dynavector XV-1s vs. Transfiguration Temper w

Jmcgrogan2
Hi. I was actually hoping to avoid giving the impression that I was referring to the noise floor -- we all know what that means. No, what my friends and I noticed was that the Temper W just seems not to render those surface artifacts that usually come from DIRT, as opposed to actual physical damage (worn grooves, scratches, etc.) It's almost as if the TTW has some way to filter out just those kinds of noise -- something that nowadays I understand, can be easily done with special software algorithms. The problem with that solution of course being it's only possible to do in the digital domain, and not something I'd want to insert into the analog chain.

So although I'll stick with my TTW, that isn't to say there aren't a few cartridges I'd love to hear in MY system, before I shuffle off this mortal coil. Including the UNIverse, along with a Colibri, a Koetsu Urushi, Air Tight PC-1, Allaerts, and some others I can't recall at the moment. I've already heard all those (except the ZYX) at shows or in other systems, which can't provide me information sufficient to make a purchase decision. As they say, "all cats are gray in the dark!" ;--)
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I have a Temper W I use with a VPI Aries II and Aesthetix Rhea. I absolutely LOVE this combo. In fact, I have given thought to buying a second Temper W just to have as a back-up when and if this present one should go on me. The Temper W is very sensitive to VTF and VTA settings. I find this an advantage, as it allows me to dial in VTA for each record. I've more or less settled on a setting for standard weight records and another for heavy weight vinyl. But you would be shocked at the difference a slight adjustment can make if a particular record sounds bass shy or has too much top end energy. If you have a lead on a good condition Temper W and decide against it, let me know. I would be interested. Sound is rich and full bodied with plenty of low frequency extension. Vocals are spot on. Cartridge delivers plenty of air and sparkle.

Stew, I hadn't thought to mention the TTW's performance leap when the SRA (stylus rake angle) is just right. But it's true. Of course, it has to do (mostly) with the incredibly crafted Ogura diamond stylus.

When I unpacked my TTW, the first thing I did (as I always do with cartridges, especially new ones), was to stick it under the scope to see how the stylus is attached to the cantilever; you can tell a lot about a cartridge maker's concern for quality construction by looking at that one detail. (Van den Hul styli for example are GLUED on with an amorphous blob of epoxy!)

What I saw on my TTW literally took my breath away! The diamond stylus is a square crystal ROD, that pierces the end of the cantilever like a dagger! It is precisely shaped like that for its entire length, not just near the tip; while the line contact edges are long, clean, and sharp! No wonder it really "locks" into the groove when set just right ;--)
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