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  3. 129620-46

Ortofon Quintet Black or Dynavector 20x2L

I own a VPI Prime with PAD Venustas phono cables to a Parasound JC3+ with a Dynavector 20x2L. Amp is Decware SE35I.5 SET, and that goes to Zu Omen Defs MKII with Radin upgrade.

Im thinking of getting a new cart, maybe with a tad more warmth, but I could be pursuaded to just trade it in and get another 20x2. I’ve heard that Ortofons work well with primes, so that’s an option.

Thoughts?
last_lemming
last_lemming OP
407 posts
 
I'd hate move to a worse thing
ninetynine's avatar
ninetynine
111 posts
 
Only the XX2, but maybe interesting for you.
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi2X2-vtd2DyPEh-DyCF5tYWUyV-cTbBm

(here a comparison between VdH and DV https://youtu.be/mcoBxztdA1s?list=PLi2X2-vtd2DyKsMWeXys6ZgM57izcUeCx)
wlutke
294 posts
 
The Quintet Bronze should have the warmer signature and the black more detail, if they’re similar to the the Cadenza line. Also, the Black has a Shibata stylus. I’ve read that shape is closest to the cutting head’s but also has a comparatively rapid rate of wear. 1000 hour estimate on my Cadenza Bronze as compared to my Dynavector XX-2’s 1500. Speaking of Dynavector, my previous 20X2m was full and punchy and I never lacked for warmth. The Cadenza Bronze is fuller, punchier and way more detailed though. I think meaty is a good descriptor of the Bronze character.
last_lemming OP
407 posts
 
Thank you for all your comments. After some research I think I'm going with the Soundsmith Carmen. Should be a bit more organic from what I've read. 
sfall
346 posts
 
You really don't want to buy a cart based on reviews. Especially a MI design. Call Cable Company and have them send you the Soundsmith, Sumiko and Shelter. That way you can make the right choice.
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