Dynavector XX Mk II

I use a SUT with this cartridge. My phono stage had 58 db of gain and the dynavector lacked dynamics. K & K has a SUT that can be set at 14 db and would put your total at 72. After inserting the step up I had all the dynamics and gain with a much blacker background.

Moonguy and Opus88, what differences do you notice in the XX mk II's performance between the 100 ohm loading and the 1000 ohm loading?

Currently I am loaded at 100 ohms, switching to 1000 ohms is no small task, as the resistors are well hidden and hard wired into my Cary SLP-98P F1 w/ MC phono stage. I just mounted my new XX mk II last night, and though it sounds very good in the bass and midrange, I feel like there is something missing in the high frequencies.

Jmcgrogam2, don't even think about playing around with loading untill the cart has between 50-100 hours of break-in. The recessed highs will open up once the cart breaks in.

John...Agreed with Brf, some break-in is needed. The highs will come in. In my system, at 100 ohms things were somewhat uninvolving. By contrast, between 500 and 1000 ohms, I experienced greater presence and a more natural, satisfying overall sound. Of course, I'm not sure what will work best for you in your system.

Thanks Jeff and Brf, I suppose I'll just have to be patient. I thought that break-in may be an issue, but I didn't know just how much of a difference it would make. I've had sound change over time with some components, but very rarely does it change drastically. I can remember one experience with an interconnect when the sound changed drastically over time though, so it is a possiblility.

I really like the bass and midrange performance of the XX mk II, but the high's are definitely too rolled off for me. I know that it is a new cartridge, and a new preamp too, so I will be patient. That is not easy for me. ;-)