I can't answer your question directly. The 17D2 Mk2 is a fine cartridge; it does a lot things very well. The only thing I know for sure is that the Shelter 901 is a better cartridge. It equals or betters the 17D2 Mk2 in every respect - most importantly, the Shelter 901 doesn't exhibit the "color" or "personality" that the 17D2 Mk2 does; in my opinion, the Shelter is a more neutral and more accurate cartridge. I haven't heard the 501 Mk2, so I can't comment on whether it is a worthy competitor to the 17D2 Mk2; my guess (based on my experience with the 901 and my reading of comments on the 501 Mk2) is that it would be, but that's just a guess. I do know that the 901 is in another league beyond the 17D2 Mk2 - but it should be for about twice the price. If you could find a deal on a new or very good used 901, it would be the preferred cartridge; it has deep and tight bass extension, open and airy midrange, and highs that make cymbals sound real. Don't get me wrong, the 17D2 Mk2 is an excellent cartridge, but the 901 is what a cartrige should be - just about perfect throughout.
Shelter 501 Mk 2 vs. Dynavector Karat 17D2 Mk2
Thanks to all who have helped me in the decision in which direction to go with a turntable next. I have decided to explore the direction of the Nottingham Space Deck with the Nottingham Space Arm. With that being said, I have two paths in front of me as to which cartridge and phono section. I have heard great things on both, and have neither to audition locally.
First option would be Nottingham Space Deck with Space Arm and Shelter 501 Mk 2 cartridge, with a modified EAR 834p phono preamp. I have heard the Shelter is a phenominal cartridge and has synergy with this table and arm. I have always leaned toward the sound of tubes as well which draws me to this phono preamp.
Second option would be Nottingham Space Deck with Space Arm and Dynavector Karat 17D2 Mk2 cartridge, with a Dynavector P-75 phono amp. I have heard from a dealer I have visited this combination is stunning. He had sold his floor model Space Deck, thus I was not able to hear it. The "natural" synergy I would imagine the Dynavector cartridge would have with it's own phono amp seems plausible. Also the Dynavector phono would most likely be dead quiet, as the rest of my system has tubes.
So, I ask of the wise ones, which cartridge? I think I am going to determine phono preamp later, but would like first and foremost to know how the Dynavector 17D2 Mk2 compares with the Shelter 501 Mk2 sonically. Also, if you could let me know if you have heard either on the Space Deck with the Space arm. Also, as an aside - I have recently inherited approximately 900 or so albums from my Great Uncle in which the albums range from the late 40's through the mid 70's. From the dozen or so I have cleaned and sampled there was quite audible grain with my Eroica cartridge. I am told some of these older records will sound much better as the stylus of the more expensive cartridges will ride lower in the groove. Any info on which cartridge may be better with these would be helpful as well, but will not be the primary determining factor. Thank you!
As for the rest of my system, you can link to it under this post. All of my analog gear has been sold. MMF-7, Graham Slee, Cardas Neutral Ref. phono cable all gone. Also, my preamp listed the Quicksilver has been sold. It is being replaced with a First Sound Presence Deluxe Mk II preamp which should arrive this week.
Any other pertinent info that you may need, let me know.
Thanks again, and happy listening!
First option would be Nottingham Space Deck with Space Arm and Shelter 501 Mk 2 cartridge, with a modified EAR 834p phono preamp. I have heard the Shelter is a phenominal cartridge and has synergy with this table and arm. I have always leaned toward the sound of tubes as well which draws me to this phono preamp.
Second option would be Nottingham Space Deck with Space Arm and Dynavector Karat 17D2 Mk2 cartridge, with a Dynavector P-75 phono amp. I have heard from a dealer I have visited this combination is stunning. He had sold his floor model Space Deck, thus I was not able to hear it. The "natural" synergy I would imagine the Dynavector cartridge would have with it's own phono amp seems plausible. Also the Dynavector phono would most likely be dead quiet, as the rest of my system has tubes.
So, I ask of the wise ones, which cartridge? I think I am going to determine phono preamp later, but would like first and foremost to know how the Dynavector 17D2 Mk2 compares with the Shelter 501 Mk2 sonically. Also, if you could let me know if you have heard either on the Space Deck with the Space arm. Also, as an aside - I have recently inherited approximately 900 or so albums from my Great Uncle in which the albums range from the late 40's through the mid 70's. From the dozen or so I have cleaned and sampled there was quite audible grain with my Eroica cartridge. I am told some of these older records will sound much better as the stylus of the more expensive cartridges will ride lower in the groove. Any info on which cartridge may be better with these would be helpful as well, but will not be the primary determining factor. Thank you!
As for the rest of my system, you can link to it under this post. All of my analog gear has been sold. MMF-7, Graham Slee, Cardas Neutral Ref. phono cable all gone. Also, my preamp listed the Quicksilver has been sold. It is being replaced with a First Sound Presence Deluxe Mk II preamp which should arrive this week.
Any other pertinent info that you may need, let me know.
Thanks again, and happy listening!
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