Dynavector XV-1s vs. Transfiguration Temper w

I agree with Downunder. Slow, dull and anemic may describe the listener, but certainly not a properly functioning XV-1s.

I've owned a Lyra Helikon and it is the fastest, most transparent cartridge I've ever heard. It sounded a bit lean in my system though. The Dynavector had more dynamics and power by comparison and was a bit fuller. Certainly not as full or warm as the Orpheus though.

Again, which will sound best will depend a lot on the rest of your system. My speakers are a tad warm, so the warmth of the Orpheus would be too much warmth in my system. The Orpheus sounded very good in my friends system, but his speakers are more transparent than mine. It's all about system balance.

The XV-1s, slow and anemic? I must respectfully disagree. Still one of the most well balanced carts on the market at any price IMHO.

I agree. The XV1s and XV1t are not slow. In fact, I would hardly call anything at that price point slow, not even the upper end Koetsu's.

However, when you hit these points it is more a matter of balance and flavor within your system. To me, the XV1 is overly neutral. For my money I want something much more musically enjoyable (I do have a very resolving system) and I find Transfiguration to fit that bill.

To go farther astray the ZYX and Ortophons tend to be farther to the lean side of the XV1 IMO.

Hi Unoear.

No, I meant system balance. We all try to create a system that suits our own listening bias and musical taste.
To others this balance will be lean, neutral, warm, perfect and probably every other combination in between.

cheers

I would generally agree on the assessment of the XV-1S as slow and anemic - at least in my system. I have had a number of cartridges in similar systems including the aforementioned Dynavector as well as the Zyx UNIverse and Ortofon MC A90 and I can tell you that, at least in my system with my ears, the Dynavector was not in the same class as either of the other two.

Have also heard the latest Benz LPS in a similar system and it also easily bested the Dynavector.

I'm a huge fan of Dynavector's more modestly-priced cartridges, especially the DV20x, but I think their top level models lag behind many of the rest.

IMO, YMMV, etc, etc