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Phono Cartridge advice

Needing some expertise I am currently looking at 2 different phono cartridges for my system. I narrowed it down to the

Dynavector 20X2 Phono Cartridge and the Ortofon 2M Black Verso. For best price for performance and quality.

My system is Totem Acoustic Forest speakers and a Cary Audio cad 120s triode tube power amp, Cary audio SLP-98P tube preamp with built in moving magnet tube phono stage, and Kimber silver streak interconnects. Sytemdek turntable with an Oracletone arm.

One thing about the dynavector I can run the low output version through a step up transformer but would prefer the high output version for cost savings.

My biggest question is moving magnate or moving coil better for a triode tube system? Let me know your thoughts and experiences thanx and happy holidays!
128x128jakecanada
mechans
3,048 posts
 
I don't think the mode e.g. triode vs pentode etc. really alters your decision to use am MC or an MM cartridge. The preamp as you noted does matter.
What it really boils down to is, which sound, between these two, you will prefer. I own a Dynevector 20X H.O. and think it is fantastic but the analog gurus are not enthusiastic about high output MC carts. I also have several MM carts on different tables, but not your Ortofon choice. I can tell you the ability to really dig out the details and the huge dynamics that the Dynevector has aren't matched by the MMs (Goldring) Grado ?-Moving Iron).
My advice is to go with the Dynevector even the HO version, that's my choice. Your choice should be made by audition in the best case scenario.
stevecham
3,340 posts
 
Either cartridge would seem to be a good choice; having said that I have no experience with the Dynavector but I do own the Ortofon Black and, after a listening session last night with audiobuds, and with that cartridge finally fully broken in, there was nothing we found wanting for detail-wise or in any other sonic features. You wouldn't go wrong wih this cart and it is scarily close to my Lyra Delos.
effischer
562 posts
 
The 20X2 will be a more revealing and neutral cartridge in your rig. The high output version will save you a few hundred bucks, as you noted. If you really want to extract the best from your vinyl, spend the extra bucks to properly rig a low output version; you won't be disappointed. Have fun and happy listening!
najo49
12 posts
 
I have agrado reference after years of lomc. Dynamics are wonderful! and once u get over aria of the low op cash eaters.you might find like me I am not missing anything.
dayglow
1,917 posts
 
With your current set up go with the Ortofon 2M Black. Remember cartridges have the shortest life span of any audio component.
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