After getting advice from some of you about analog upgrades, instead of Jumping to a new phono I want to upgradel cartridge. Rest of system. Rega p5 Luxman 550 A II Harbeth compact 7 ES3 PS audio phono AZ cables Nordost IC.
Dynavector Karat 17D3 would be a good pick. I have used it with a Rega 25, Harbeth Compact 7, Quad amp/preamp and thought it sounded great. You have to be sure your phono preamp has about 60db of gain.
17D3 or a 20XL would both be good ideas if you like the Dyna sound. They also have different strengths and weaknesses, so I'd go with what best matches your preference. I use a Soundsmith rebuilt XX-2 Mk II and love it. Great sound in my set-up, and less fussy to set up than some LOMC carts. Tracks great too.
I've had the 10x5, 20xl and 20xH the17D and the xx2mk II. The 20x is a marginal step up the 17d is huge as is the xx2. The 17d is so clean and clear sounding you will be amazed. In a way I like it better than the xx2 but I think the overall balance is better with the xx2 you can't go wrong with either. I think you will certainly like the 20x better than the 10x5 but if you are looking for a big jump go at least to the 17d.
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