Shelter 901 vs. Dynavector XX-2 or TE Kaitora

Tonnesen, I actually think that the Teres 245 with the OL Silver, and the Shelter 501 is about the perfect combination of the very best performers for the money. If I was to make an upgrade, it would be first to the 255 platter. Then if I were to upgrade the arm, which I really don't think needs any upgrading, I'd go to the OL Illustrious. To be perfectly honest, I think that my Silver with the mods I've done to it, such as the HiFi lateral stabilizers, and the custom underhung de-coupled counterweight, is as good as the Illustrious. Even the standard OL Silver has been put in the same league as a SME V, or Graham 2.2, or Aro, or Ekos. And my mods have improved the Silver by about 50%. I don't see myself changing that arm. As for the Shelter 501, it could be upgraded to the 901, but the 501 has some beautiful "lush" qualities that may make me think more than twice before jumping into a 901. And the 501 is easily as good as a Helikon, but even better to my ear. So, no need to change that in a hurry. The 245/Silver/501 is very close to the top, for under $4k. It would give a $15k rig a very close competition. That's a pretty good deal in my book. I think I'll stick right where I am for awhile, and maybe for good.

Thanks guys. Can you recommend some dealers for Shelter cartridges?

Try Audio Revelation. They are a dealer that advertises on Audiogon. They have ads for Origin Live stuff, in the Analog for sale category. They are also a Shelter dealer.

I bought mine directly from Japan. You can contact Mr. Akio Hashimoto of Japan Audio Trading Company (akio-jat@galaxy.ocn.ne.jp) and he will get you a very decent price, and it will arrive via airmail in 2 to 3 business days!

FrankC

Thanks FrankC, Japan Audio Trading Co references also show up on vinylasylum.com with many posts refering to his great price and service. This might just be the year to decorate my christmas tree with cd's (keep my busy while I wait for the shelter to come in).