The Helikon nees a lot of patience until it is broken in. In the beginning it has rather an unpleasant tilt towards the high end of the spectrum, so that you are continually tempted to lower the VTA, which will make it sound shrill and dull at the same time. Exasperating ! But after about 80 hours or so, listening through the Aesthetics IO and Jadis gear and on ESLs, the Ruby was no match for it, as far as depth of field, soundstage layering and sheer dynamics were concerned. There remained a slight tilt towards the high side, so in that sense, I quite agree with Mrvordo, but that is highly compensated to my pair of ears by its speed and resolving powers, which comparatively speaking, will leave the Ruby, inspite of its excellences in other fields, somewhat behind. I find it definitely worth while, to give both offerings a long and extended listening and try to compare well broken in samples from your dealer. Cheers,
Benz Ruby Low Output or Lyra Helkion?
I have a Rowland set up with the cadence phono stage. As my analog set up, I have a VPI Aries with the Graham tone arm. I listen to all types of music. I would be stepping up from a Benz Glider to either of the cartrdiges listed above.
Thanks for taking the time to read and respond!
Thanks for taking the time to read and respond!