2K-3K Cartridge for SME10/BAT VK-P10SE superpak


I am on the last step of upgrading my analog front end. I am using SME 10 with M10 tonearm (part of performance package, similar to SME 309) with a BAT VK-P10 SE with superpak phonostage. I am currently using a Dynavector 20XL (output 0.25mV) using the step-up transformer in the BAT. Rest of the system is cardas golden reference tonearm cable (currently being reterminated with XLR connectors by Cardas), Golden reference balanced ICs, BAT VK-300x SE integrated amp, cardas neutral reference speaker cable in internal biwire configuration, and Aerial 7bs. I listen to rock and small combo Jazz (Blue Notes, Coltrane, Bill Evans, Miles Davis). My listening priorities are a very dynamic, full range sound with extended, well-controlled bass, wide soundstage, and likely err on the side of a touch of warmth. I want to avoid forward sounding highs and am very sensitive to excessive sibilance. I have no complaints with the Dynavector, but can't help but wonder what a more expensive cartridge would bring. Cartridges I am considering based on reviews and forums are

Sumiko Celebration II (based on several SME users recommendations)
Dynavector XX2 Mk II (I love my Dynavector)
Lyra Helikon or Helikon SL
Lyra Skala (this would be a stretch of my budget)
Ortofon Jubilee

Thanks for your suggestions.
sdrenslow

Showing 5 responses by jmcgrogan2

Scott, you are wise to hesitate buying a used cartridge. I've bought many used items on AudiogoN and Ebay, including phono cartridges, until I learned the hard way. Once you're out a couple grand, and find out that the seller was not truthful, well let's just say it makes for an unpleasant experience. It's harder to judge a cartridge's true condition over the internet than it is to judge a phono preamp, or similar larger object.

As for cartridges, if you are happy with your Dynavector 20XL, it would seem the safest move would be up the Dynavector line to the XX-2. Dynavector does make great cartridges, they are my second favorite line behind the ZYX line. In your price range, you may also want to consider the ZYX Airy 3.

BTW, very nice phono stage!

Cheers,
John
Scott, I can understand the inability to audition the ZYX. So I assume that this means you will have an opportunity to audition the Dynavector, Lyra, Ortofon and Sumiko in your system. Why not just audition the ones you can and pick the one you like best?

FWIW, I do respect Art Dudley, but I have owned the Lyra Helikon, Koetsu Rosewood Signature, Benz Micro Ruby 2, Cardas Heart, Dynavector XX-2, and several others that escape me. I've also heard the Jubilee, but not the Celebration. All of these cartridges were worthy and had good qualities, though none were on the level of the ZYX Airy 3, IMHO. I have since moved on to the UNIverse.

IMHO, your best bet would be to be patient and save your pennies, and then buy either the ZYX UNIverse or a Dynavector XV-1s as your funds allow. As good as your phono stage is, it really needs a top flight cartridge to shine.

Cheers,
John

BTW, I still advise against buying used, even from the original owner. There is no way to know how accurate his guesstimate of age/hours is, let alone if the cartridge had been set up and cared for properly. Just my $0.02.
I'll buy most of my gear used, but a phono cartridge is not worth the risk to me.
Scott, I do agree with John that playing around with the cartridge loading may help with your warmth issues. You may also want to adjust the VTA to help with the high's. If none of this helps, you may want to go with a Lyra cartridge, either Helikon or Skala, as both are very fast and very clean. A bit too thin for my rig now, but the Helikon served me well with warmer tables before, like the VPI.
One other suggestion would be to change from the Cardas GR cable, which is very warm by itself. Maybe look for some cabling from Nordost or Stealth.

Have fun, and remember, the journey IS the trip.

Cheers,
John
I would say that your listening impressions resemble my own listening to a Lyra vs. a Dynavector. I am a bit curious though how this is just what you are looking for.

In your original post you said " My listening priorities are a very dynamic, full range sound with extended, well-controlled bass, wide soundstage, and likely err on the side of a touch of warmth. I want to avoid forward sounding highs and am very sensitive to excessive sibilance."

From that original description, I would not have guessed that the faster, leaner sound of the Lyra was what you were looking for. I hope you enjoy it though.

Cheers,
John