NJ,

Peter makes amazing cartridges. Not even a question. When I can get a more current review sample, it will likely make this list.

Best,

Ian White

Ian, great inexpensive choices. After my Benz Ruby3 passed from wear, I replaced it with the Dynavector 20X2L in a $20K analog rig (Zesto Allesso SUT alone is $3600). It makes 90%+ of my 28,500 LPs sound great. Maybe I am missing some resolution, ambiance, etc. that a $4K and up cartridge can provide but three of my friends use the high output version on various VPI tables (sounding great) and one uses a special upgraded and ceramic bodied Denon 103 when he listens to LPs (mostly CDs). I still have the 10X2 as a backup.

Particularly as Grado gives you a healthy trade in chunk as you move up the line.

My TT is a Linn LP12 with the Ittok LVII tonearm, Lingo/Karousel/etc.. and my preamp is a DIY fully adjustable job (resistive load, inductive load, gain) based on the Pass Pearl 2.

Note: the Grados want a 47K load impedance and don’t care much about the inductance (moving iron design). So, if you get a low output version (currently 1mV) you need a “sort of” hybrid preamp… high gain (as for MC) but 47K load (as for MM).

Also, you didn’t mention the cartridge set up which requires much more than just tracking weight and anti skating… you also have to set up its azimuth, rake, VTA, etc… the wooden Grados are hard to set up because the stylus is set back in the body and are hard to see from the front.

The step up transformer is pretty much no longer needed… just get a phono preamp with settings for MC and spend the money on a better TT/tonearm/cartridge/preamp.

Oh, BTW, what’s with that note: “Only 50% of vinyl buyers own a turntable”? What’s the point of buying records if you can’t play them?

Hah! Take that, Will McCormick! I am one of the cool kids now so you can take an airborne intercourse back to the House at Poop Corner, Piglet.

ORT

NJ,

Peter makes amazing cartridges. The Zephyr II is a wonderful cartridge. I’ve heard a number of them on the Classic 3, Direct Drive, and even an older HW-19 MKIV and they were all superb cartridges. Enjoy your music. And don’t upgrade!

Best,

Ian White

Andres,

Depends on the table and the rest of the system.

Anything more you can share?

Best,

Ian White

Mike,

It’s all cumulative. The phono stage in the Denon is the weak link. The 2M Bronze is $400+ upgrade. It’s definitely the best bang for the buck in the 2M range. I’ve used the 2M Black for 4 years and I don’t think it’s twice as good as the Bronze considering the price difference.

The Sumiko Wellfleet is the same price as the 2M Bronze and just as good.

An external phono stage will have the biggest impact depending on the rest of the system. It will impact the tonal balance and dynamics for sure.

Ian White