Anyone using a Lyra Delos yet?


There was an initial thread about the Lyra Delos a few months back, but I haven't seen much follow up about users' impressions with this cartridge. Is anyone using a Delos and if so, how are you liking it?

I'm looking for a new cartridge for my VPI Classic and JLTi phono stage. I'm currently using an old Grado cartridge from my previous turntable, and it's on its last legs. So if anyone has any other suggestions I'd love to hear them. Price ceiling about $1,500. System used mostly to play rock, jazz and acoustic music.

Thank you.
mniven

Showing 1 response by mik5kirk

I've been using a Delos since January on my VPI Classic. Phono stage is a Jolida JD-9a I've modded with Mundorf Silver-Oil output caps and Burr Brown OP627a's. Using NOS Tesla E83CC tubes. Mac C220 pre and MC275 amp. Gallo Reference 3.1 speakers.

I pre-ordered the Delos and while I waited I used a loaner Dyna DV20x. Prior to this, I had an old stock Ortofon MC-30 Super. I've also listened extensively to a Helikon on a VPI Classic.

I feel the Delos is a departure from the other Lyra. It is warmer than the other Lyra. Less analytical, more musical.
Make no mistake, it doesn't lack for detail and it can punch very hard. This thing has bass in spades but very detailed. Very natural sounding. You can hear a stick hit a skin on a drum. It is just to the warm side of neutral. Highs are very detailed and not rolled off.

Voices, both female and male, are very natural with little sibilance or chestiness.

Soundstage in width and depth is less than the Helikon but bigger than the Dyna or the Ortofon. In fact, its tonality rests about midway between the Helikon and the Dyna 20. It seems to track like other Lyras.

At the price point, it is very hard to beat. I'm at about 60 hrs on the cart and it seems to be getting better. The soundstage has steadily grown.

Always remember, this is ONLY my opinion. YMMV.