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Denon DL 160/DV 10x5, PrimaLuna PL2 Factory Stage

Hi, need some advice recommendations from cartridge gurus out there. I have a new toy, a PrimaLuna PL2 w/the factory phonostage and a Rega RB250 arm:

Specifications
Freq. Response: 10Hz-50kHz
Distortion & Noise: -83dB
Input Impedance: 50k Ohms
Gain: 42dB
Suggested Minimum Cartridge Output: 2.0 mV
RIAA Accuracy: <0.5dB @ 20Hz-20kHz
Dimensions: 1.26" x 1.5"

Thinking of pairing this up with a Denon DL 160:

# Output: 1.6mV
# Stylus: .1 x .2mm special elliptical diamond
# Cantilever: aluminum
# Frequency range: 20-50,000Hz
# Compliance: 14x10-6cm/dyne
# Tracking force: 1.3-1.9g
# Weight: 4.8g

Is this a good choice? I'm worried that the 1.6mV is too low. Although I read somewhere it's actually near 2.2 mV. I like the fact (from what I read) how it's forgiving, detailed yet smooth.... and more importantly inexpensive.

Would the Dynavector 10X5 be a better choice?

Any other recommendations in this price range? Trying to keep costs down/simple system.

Do I need shims for the VTA? Can I just use washers? What kind?

Thanks in advance.
elf73
rauliruegas
9,123 posts
 
Dear Elf73: IMHO I think that you can do better through MM cartridges like the Shure M97X, Sumiko Pearl or the Shelter.
From my point of view and everything the same a MM cartridge ( loaded at 100K ) performs a little better than a HOMC: the MM one is in its " natural " stage/home.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.
johnnyb53
3,490 posts
 
For me the logical move up from a Denon DL-160 was the Audio Technica AT150MLX. It's $250-260 from J&R Music World and LPGear respectively. Replacement stylus is as cheap as a DL160--$180 from LPGear. Its weight and compliance also work in the same range of arms as the DL-160's.

It has a tonal balance similar to the DL-160, but gives you more of everything--more detail, more body, more extension at both ends, 'way better tracking, a more sophisticated stylus shape, plus 6-nines single crystal copper wiring. And more output besides. It puts out something north of 4 mV which is going to match well with your PrimaLuna.

I've had mine 8 months and it just never occurs to me to upgrade my cart anymore (famous last words). The DL-160 sounds like a very good entry-level cartridge. The AT150MLX sounds like it's getting you into high end territory.
elf73 OP
104 posts
 
Thanks for the replies. I just ordered the AT150MLX from J&R.

I figured I have a MM phonostage, so might as well get a MM cartridge. Seems pretty well liked amongst other members..
maco55
2 posts
 
Hi Elf73

No problem with the DL160 and my Primaluna PL1, mates well with the phonostage of the unit. Just turn the amp's volume knob up by a "5 minutes" increase to get same sound pressure than with a 5mV cart

Regards
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