VPI Cartridge People: What next?


OK, vinyl troopers, so it's getting to be time for a new cartridge, at least pretty soon.  My Dynavector XX-2 MkII has served me faithfully and is likely headed for replacement in the months ahead, so where do I go now?  I've previously moved up from Dynavector Karat to the XX-2 MkII, and that brought nice improvement, but what next?  System page is listed, but in short I'm a 99% analog only guy with VPI 10.5 arm > VPI Aries turntable > McIntosh C2300 tube MC phono.  This rig sits on a Gingko Cloud stand and heavyweight Bright Star rack. 

Trouble is, good cartridges are obviously very expensive and tough to demo.  My goal: I'm looking for the ultimate VPI-arm compatible cartridge for use with this rig. Move up in the Dynavector line? Stay put with XX-2 MkII?  Lyra cartridges have good reviews and sound tempting.  Soundsmith?  Koetsu?  Can I do make a meaningful improvement over the Dyna XX-2 MkII for less than $3K?  Listen mainly to all kinds of music and value soundstaging and image depth. Leaning slightly more Romantic than Analytical/HiFi in my audio tastes.

Have I reached the end of the line using VPI Aries with VPI 10.5 Classic 3 arm as a platform? Bring me the truth based on solid experience, folks!

Your wisdom and experiences are much appreciated in advance.  Thanks!
128x128goheelz

Showing 1 response by jmcgrogan2

For the most part, a cartridge with a weight >7 grams and a compliance >10 are best suited for VPI arms.

That said, Dynavectors and Lyras seem to be very popular choices for VPI tables/arms. Sure, you are not limited to that, but I have heard it is best to stay within the guidelines in my first sentence. So Koetsu is not such a good choice due to low compliance.

I was running a Dynavector XX-2 mkII previously, and changed to a Ortofon Cadenza Bronze several months ago. I wouldn't say it is better, but different. The Dynavector was a bit faster and revealing, whereas the Bronze is a bit sweeter and more musical. Which is "better" probably varies from recording to recording.

From my understanding, the Cadenza Black may be quicker, like the Dynavector line.

Happy Hunting,
John