Cartridge for VPI Classic 3?

I will second the voting for the VPI Zephyr cartridge. Great seperation and top to bottom balance, very musical, and matches extremely well with the VPI unipivot arms, all for under $1000. Interesting that it also seems to be a lot less sensitive to surface imperfections ( less pops and ticks) than a lot of other carts that I have used. Good Luck!

I had the 20x2 low output on the classic 3. The XX2 Mk II was really worth the extra money when I upgraded. Based on my experience and in my opinion, I suggest if you are considering Dynavector go directly to the xx2 MkII on the Classic 3, it is really that much better. For me, getting the SRA at 91.5 degrees also really paid off in improving the sound.

Captain what was your setup for the xx2 with your classic arm to get the sra you got? I have my arm base running well below level, tipped down in the back and then run a fairly high vtf of about 2.17 on my classic 1. Alignment ans setup done with a mint lp protractor. I agree it's a great combo especially now that I am running it all into my Pass XP15 phono stage. I load at 100 ohms and run the highest gain of 76 db. Into the lowest gain setting on my pre. Deep tuneful bass, smooth holographic mids and wonderful highs. I think this cart needs a fair amount of gain to get the dynamics it can deliver. It works well with a wide range of material esp rock.

I have a Benz Wood SL on my classic one and I am very happy with it.

Chuck

I'm using a Benz LPS in my 10.5i and am loving it. No inner grove distortion, great dynamic range, delicate when required, and bold when the record demands it...great depth, air....I haven't heard better.