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Benz micro glider vs dynavector 20X2

Hi every one I have just listened to couple of suggestions of phono cartridges from 2 local dealers. I am wanting to got to a moving coil but can only afford high output phono cartridges. Don't need or have any money spent on upgrading my preamp phono stage. So do not want suggestions on phono stages or upgrades just the 2 cartridges.

I have been suggested 2 moving coil phono cartridges which are
the Dynavector 20X2 H and the Benz Micro Glider High output version.

My preamp is a cary slp-98p tube single ended triode preamp that can support up to as low as 1.4 millivotlts.

Just wondering which has a better build quality and whats the deferences other then sound. Which is a better value And has anyone had any problems with the Benz. And since I have heard benz has been having some problems with there servicing department. Would it be an issue in the future to have it replace the tip on it. compared to the dynavector?
128x128jakecanada
jmcgrogan2's avatar
jmcgrogan2
6,346 posts
 
While I do agree with Czarivey's assessment of these two cartridges sonic characteristics, I am running a Dynavector XX-2 mk II with my SLP-98P preamp with good success. The warm, sweet SLP-98 works better with the precision of a Dynavector than the extra warmth of the Benz, IMHO. As always, YMMV.
wlutke
725 posts
 
Contact Benz and ask them retip time. I have an original Glider and a 20X2m. I would go for the glider. The detail and treble are far superior and the sound is overall more civilized. The Dyna is known for big bass and an organic sound. It can rock. The 2.4 mv Soundsmith Zephyr MKII is in that price range too. Have not heard it but others claim it is killer.
raymonda
855 posts
 
I've been using a Glider for the past 17 years, most recently with a Soundsmith ruby cant. I've had it in a few different systems, WTRP and highly modded Thorens, as well as, SS or tubes and have enjoyed the performance it has delivered. That is not to knock the Dyna, as I have zero experience with one, but rather, to reinforce the enjoyable sounds delivered by the Benz. BTW, when it is time to retip send it off to Soundsmith for the work. IMO, the ruby cant improves upon an already solid design.

BTW, if you want to get off on the cheap, a Denon 110 gives you about 85% of what the Glider has to offer. However, that other 15% is well worth the added cost. But it is surprising how well the 110 sounds.
dfel
62 posts
 
I tried the Low output version of the 20X2. It was in my system for about 3 days before going up for sale. I did not find this to be a neutral cartridge and did not appreciate the dynavector "house sound" at all, I also found that it had trouble reproducing low level detail.

I have a friend that has a benz glider high output, and I can say that it is a phenomenal cartridge. Of course, my only comparison is across systems, but I can say that the Glider H was worlds better in just about every way. Maybe the dyna was more finicky, but no matter what I did I just could not get it to sound right.

Just my 2 cents...Vote for Glider.
sumbuba
20 posts
 
Is the Benz cartridge still available in the US ? And if so, where ?

Thanks
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