SME 20/2 sound problem. Remedy suggestions needed

Dear Zbielak: IN my experiences as we grow-up with better audio devices in the audio chain as " wrong " things come along/out, so we can't think ( almost never are so lucky. ) that a better audio device wll show ( plug&play ) immediatly the quality improvements, specially on the analog area.

If, like almost any one could think on it, the SME TT is realy better then you have to make a new overall audio system set-up, even the V and IV are different designs other than its similar effective mass and build material.

Looking to your system I have to ask: why the 103R?, I mean that your new SME gear ( even with rock/metal. ) maybe deserve a different cartridge that can realy show the quality of that SME rig and IMHO that cartridge can't do it, what you are hearing now ( between other things ) are some of the drawbacks of your 103R. Remember that the quality performance of your system ussualy is the quality peformance f the weak link in the audio chain.

Other thing that worry me is that you are running two different amplifiers with your speakers. The input/output impedance of the amplifiers are different, the frequency response is different, the output level on both channels on each amplifier is different, the THD/IMD on those amplifiers are different, its noise and overall colorations are different too
I prefer to handle speakers for same amplifier models to preserve " continuity ".

Other link where this TT change could " interfere " is with your phono stage that is maybe the most critical link in the analog chain, I know that you posted that is smilar than the Steelhead but with all respect that IMHO is no secure/absolute/precise reference of high quality performance.

The very good news is that right now you have the great opportunity to re-think your audio system to achieve a stepped quality performance from what you are experienced yesterday and today ( till today. ).

You need know-how, patience, money and more patience.

regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.

Zbielak,
Welcome to Audiogon! I see you are a new member and this thread that you initiated should be a very interesting experience. There will be lots of suggestions. I tend to agree with what others have said. After a big change, one often needs to reexamine previoulsy held beliefs and expectations. After the initial shock of a different sound, be patient and try to figure out what is causing the effect.

I have the SME 10 tt and SME V arm and can tell you that huge gains can be had by experimenting with all of the cartridge/arm set-up variables including whether or not the cartidge is a good match to the arm. I upgraded the arm from the SME 309 and the cartridge from a Sumiko Celebration and each time, the neutrality of the SME platform (table) allowed me to hear the differences very clearly. Then I began to really play with slight changes in VTA, VTF and alignment. You have an excellent table/arm combination.

I sense your frustration. Just try to be patient and enjoy the learning process.

Zbielak,

A few years ago, I upgraded to an SME 20/2 with a Graham Phantom arm and a Dynavector XV-1S cartridge from an Oracle Delphi with Eminent Technology ET-2 arm and a long-discontinued Van den Hul cartridge.

The difference is just amazing! I can't speak for the SME V arm because I have not heard it in a long time, but it has a very good reputation.

I suspect that the most serious problem may be your cartridge and then perhaps your setup. I think perhaps Raul could provide even more guidance to you as he has a great deal of experience with TTs, arms and cartridges

Thank You all for Your words of support and experienced knowledge! I am working right on swallowing the pill of bitterness :) Hence - the cartridge first, and well over 1000$ one for sure. Maybe it's an early question to ask, since I still crave for more general oppinions 'bout my deck/arm malady - it's a young thread so far - but what cartridge would You suggest me to try out with the SME deck? I think of some carts in league with Koetsu Black, but that's so far I know. Maybe You know a certain cart which You consider just perfect for Rock and Metal music - colourful, dynamic, fast, soaring in hights, spacial and maybe even tending to some exaggeration in mid/bass punch. Or maybe that's too much to ask of a cartridge alltogether? I crave for colours in music, had plenty but now Im as colour-thristy as if stranded on a desert for a cup of water. Please post Your suggestions for an ultimate ROCK/METAL cartridge, I'd highly appreciate more thoughts of how to fine tune SME20/2 w/V optimally.

Would appreciate Your word.
ZB

one of higher end garrott bros models will put the 'old school' into pretty much any turntable/arm combo. google...they'll ship from australia, and you'll spend less than a grand. dynamic, low noise floor, solid.