VPI Prime Signature from Rega 6
 

As I get more involved ( consumed ) LOL building my system, let me say I'm really new just a few months into it and really excited about it. Having a budget like most of us do always brings up having to concede in one area or another.My strategy might be flawed but I'm going in the direction of trying to choose equipment that would stay with me for at least 3-4 years before venturing on if I choose. I going with the VPI TT because I think it will fit my parameters as stated above. I've already met some fantastic people here that have helped me in the 3-4 days I've been a member I really thankful , Buck who I'm getting his ARC REF 2 SE to replace my present Phono stage and Ivan who I'm getting my table from just to mention a few.Now I trying to decide what cartridge I will go with. looking at these:
Dynavector XX2 MK2
LYRA DELOS
KISEKI - Blue MC Phono Cartridge
ORTOFON - Cadenza Bronze MC Phono

I know there are a million variables in the decision making process I'm just saying if I handed you $2000.00 what would you buy basically.Any choice will be so far ahead of what i have now..LOL

I will be going to a ACR Ref 5SE or 6 soon and ACR amp which I'm still thinking about which one but that will be 2-3 months out.

+1

Hi Joe, I've been really happy with my Dyanvector XX2 mk II as well.....it's a tough cartridge to beat for the the money. I know many who love the Lyras as well.....they seem to have a reputation of being a bit more detailed....I've read that some find them just a tad on the brighter side while the Dynavectors have a little more bass slam if you will. Our friend Steve here on AA has a Kiseki Purple heart that (I think) he really likes. I don't have any personal experience with the Ortofon cartridges.

- Buck

Welcome and congratulations.

I was just in the market for a new cartridge after spending years with a Dynavector XV1-S. I finally decided on a Grado Aeon. Now, there is nothing wrong with any of your candidates, and prior to getting the Grado I'd have said, go for the Dynavector.

Now that I've lived with the Grado I would urge you to seriously consider the Grado model in your price range (Statement?) or even commit to eating PB&J for a year and go one rung up out of your comfort zone. The Grado is an amazing cartridge and the newest models are not the "all mid-range, no top or bottom" Grados of years ago.

But whatever cartridge from your list you choose you won't go wrong.

PS: Ivan will treat you right on a Grado, too, if that's the way you decide to go.

Best of luck and many enjoyable years spinning vinyl to you!

Steve Z

Odd, Buck was a super nice guy and helpful. He also sold me a ARC REF2 SE with a tracking number just the other day.

Ed! Joe is new on the site here......don’t make him nervous! :D

Joe - Don’t listen to Ed, he’s one of the resident troublemakers.

- Buck

New VPI Prime Signature In Rosewood
 

Just ordered the VPI Prime Signature in Rosewood with the Fatboy Gimbal tonearm..Glad My boss lets me keep my job,,LOL

Thanks for the suggestions the Dynavector XX2 MKII are out of stock so I'm still pondering a backup , Maybe Grado.....

Congrats! :banana:

Gimbaled Fatboy....great choice. Uni-pivot make you nervous? I am using an Ortofon Cadenza Black on my Fatboy plus have a Grado Ref2 as a backup. Ivan will always steer you in the right direction.