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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 2 responses by tablejockey

tablejockey
3,789 posts
 
If I had your table, I would drop a 3D arm along with what another poster suggested, Audio Technica ART9. The ART 7  as well, if you have plenty of gain to work with. I’m enjoying my VPI classic/ART9.
The thread on the ART has a few fans who have used super carts and seem to
agree it competes with them for half to cost.
If I were doing just the cart, I would also consider the Kiseki Blue/Black. I liked what I’ve heard with these carts on VPI rigs.

The 3D arm/cart combo would be the end for me-until I could afford the VPI Avenger/DD.

tablejockey
3,789 posts
 
"Something no one has mentioned...Mcintosh C2300 tube phono stage"

I took a quick look and it appears good as anything until you're ready to split hairs/$$$ like everything else audio.
The only decision that may be an issue is choosing between the 9 or 7.
With the 7, you can save a couple more bucks, but have to get one from a Japanese seller. That, and the gain issue.
The 7  may be an even nicer sounding cart, subjectively.

For kicks, I may try one next year.

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