Just to confuse the issue further, I'll cast my vote in favour of the Ortofon Jubilee, which I find is stupendous in terms of performance, with true high-end resolution of detail - as it should have considering it is, or was, Ortofon's top cartridge for a while - but with a most of the infamous Denon DL-103's way with PRaT, SLAM and a sense of the musicians playing together as a united whole (areas where the DL-103 rules the MC roost). It is also considered by many the best there is in the lower frequencies, where indeed it is awesome: limitless reach with incredible control and resolution. I use mine on a JMW 10.5/quasi "i" where it is truly excellent (the best match I've found among a cast including a Morch UP-4 and a Dynavector DV-507 MKII, and so a good match for your own VPI), on a high-mass idler-wheel drive (Lenco of course ;-)). I've heard the Dyna XX-1 as well on one of my high-mass idlers (Garrard 401) where it indeed also sounded excellent, though without the Ortofon's speed, resolution or accuracy.
Ortofon Jubilee vs. Dynavector XX-2 Mk. 2
I plan to upgrade from my current Lyra Dorian, which is nice but I find it a bit sterile sounding. I am considering the Jubilee and the XX-2 Mk. 2. These cartridges seem very similar in output level, weight, compliance, internal impedance, and even appearance! Does anyone here have experience with both and could point out the basic differences in sound quality? BTW - I am running a Scoutmaster with JMW9 Sig. arm. I could trade the Dorian in for a Helikon and the price would be comparable to buying either the Ortofon or Dyna, but perhaps the Lyra analytical sound is not what I am after. Hence, my interest in other brands. Thanks!