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Dynavector XX-2 MK2 vs Shelter 901 MK2

I have upgraded my Clearaudio Concept to Performance DC with Concerto V2 cartridge but I find it sounding bright with vocal sibilance on some of my vinyl collection. Set my phono preamp to 25ohm to tame the brightness. I triple check all my alignment, tried different positions to no avail. I am using the Clearaudio Alignment gauge which I tried the Clearaudio recommended and the IEC standard. Seems like I hit the dead end so I decided to try a much warmer cartridge either the Dynavector XX-2 MK2 or the Shelter 900 MK2. I listen to all genre except classical but mostly rock.

If you have experience on either or even better, on both cartridge please advise.
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islandmandan
1,260 posts
 
I have been using a Dynavector XX2MKII now for almost ten years, had to have a Soundsmith retip, I used it so much.

Having never owned a Shelter cartridge, I can't comment on them. The XX2MKII I have always set the loading at either 500 or 1000 Ohms, if that tells you anything.

This cartridge will give a great deal of detail, slam, and just musical greatness, and it will reveal any set-up errors just as well.

I've been using a MintLP protractor for alignment, and a Fosgometer for azimuth.

I don't know if this is helpful, but it's something.

Good luck, regards,
Dan
s1nn3r's avatar
s1nn3r OP
162 posts
 
Hey Brf,

I did all I can with VTA by raising and lowering the arm. I find the lowest weakens the sibilance but its still there.
s1nn3r's avatar
s1nn3r OP
162 posts
 
Hey Jmcgrogan2,

I read some reviews on Koetsu, It is warmer but rolling off on the bass which I wouldn't want to sacrifice specially with rock music. The review said the higher you go with Koetsu then you'll get better bass. Sadly it is over my budget.

Thank you everyone for pointing me to Dynavector direction.
john_tracy
341 posts
 
FWIW your problem with vocal sibilance may not be a cartridge issue. Clean reproduction requires pristine electronics too. Especially the power supplies.

I've owned both a Shelter 901 and 9000. An elliptical stylus has more trouble tracing vocal sibilance accurately than more radical geometries. I'm currently using a Soundsmith Sussurro. Peter's prototype actually, and it hands down beats the pants off the Shelters.
s1nn3r's avatar
s1nn3r OP
162 posts
 
Hey John_tracy,

I forgot to mention I'm using a clarify tonearm. Using Mcintosh C48 MC phono stage. I'm not sure what you mean by pristine electronics. To some, Bose is pristine lol
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