Upgrade a Dynavector 20X2 H on a VPI table

Sure...I got back into vinyl about 10 years ago when I bought a Scout, which I ordered with a Clearaudio Virtuoso Wood (based on the Stereophile review) as part of a package. I had an ARC SP-16 at the time for my preamp, which has a MM phono stage. Never really satisfied with the sound of my vinyl rig, I ended upgrading to the Scoutmaster when VPI made that available. Some improvement, but still not really up to CDs to my ears.

Then I accidently snagged the stylus when setting up my turntable after moving house a year ago (yikes!) and ended up buying the Dyna 20X2 HO to replace the V. Wood. I upgraded my JMW9 tonearm to the Classic 3 about the same time. The Dyna with the Classic 3 were fantastic; I couldn't believe the step change in sound!! This set me off on further upgrades...since, I've added the Classic platter, TNT mini-feet, ring clamp and a SDS. Sold the SP-16 and bought a Ref 5 and PH7 on the 'Gon. All positive steps forward (esp. the Ref 5) which have my family and friends agog. My wife is truly the greatest for putting up with this hobby, thankfully she loves the sound, too!

So all these changes had me thinking again about the source...maybe my Dyna (which started it all), could be bettered as well. But after my experiences with the two Lyras, I'm not sure which direction to take.

Power amp is an ARC VT-100 MkIII, cables are Nordost, CD player is an Oppo BDP-95. As I'm also a woodworker, speakers are homebuilt, based on the Madisound Odin design by Joe D'Appolito, and supported by subwoofers of my own design.

In terms of music, I like Rock, Jazz, and Classical, so a pretty varied collection of music.

I thought about the XX-2, but am initially resistant to include a step-up transformer in the signal path.

Thanks for your help and interest!!

Maybe I am hung up on Dynavectors, so in the end I'll have to go to a step-up transformer and another set of cables. But I was wondering if anyone had another suggestion.

I just got the PH7 and am somewhat loath to change that one out already...it is a great phono stage - dead quiet, and changing the loading from your chair with the remote is a great idea.

Unfortunately the only way to increase the gain is to use a step up or move to another phono stage like the Reference Phono 2SE, which has 74db gain potential...no doubt a superb product but even more $$. My wife would probably kill me for sure.

Bifwynne, I'm beginning to think the Zephyr is the solution. I think it is the fantastic bass which is what I feel is so appealing about the Dyna. Is the Zephyr equally good?

Thanks, guys, for jumping in!

Bifwynne, thanks for all your input...I'm going to try the Zephyr!

OK, it's been a couple of days with a new Zephyr, and I have to say it looks like the solution. I find it hard to believe it trounces both the Lyra Delos and Kleos in terms of musicality and bass response, but there you go...sounds great so far and only 10 hrs on the cartridge. I will say the finish is not in the same class, but who cares...it's what it sounds like that is important. Thanks, Bifwynne, for pointing me in this direction!