2. analog
  3. 1106980621

Suggestion for more detail

For the recordings I have both LP and CD versions, I notice my analog setup beat my CD setup for almost all of the recordings. However, on some recordings, the CD versions sound more colorful and detailed than the LP versions. Is that because of the condition of records? Will a upgrade to MC cartridge help?

My CD setup is Spectral 3000/2000 with Spectral-Link.
My Analog setup consists of clearaudio Virtuoso Wood, Eminent-Tech ET-2 with all upgrades except the Mag. arm tube, single Wisa pump and tank, Eurolab Premier with 80mm platter and Teres DC motor modification, HMS Gran Finale phono cables, Tom Evans MicroGroove+.
poorguy
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
One other possibility. Have you tried optimizing VTA for these "supposed to be good" recordings? If arm height is much too low you could be losing the top end.
twl
3,251 posts
 
Very perceptive thought, Doug.
That might very well be it.
Especially if they are the heavy vinyl records that might noticeably upset the VTA setting.
poorguy OP
81 posts
 
I adjusted the VTA but didn't help. I think Virtuoso Wood is VTA insensitive like Stereophile said. Thank you anyway.
poorguy OP
81 posts
 
I solved the problem by using Mr. Clean Magic Eraser.
aceto
273 posts
 
V wood is excellent. Not the top, but you would need to move to MC at more than 120% higher for comparable performance. I doubt the condition of the vinyl matters because you would hear differences between records. In general, try to separate cartridge sound from variances in source records. The LPs released for the five years before CD were in general bad. Maybe you need better cleaning.
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