dynavector , benz micro , Cartridge suggestions?

Posted by: gavagai on 12 February 2004

Hello,
I currently have a Dynavector 10X4 MKII on my Rega Planar 25. I am about to take my table in for a check up and thought I might pull the trigger and get a new cartridge. how many hours are Dynavector carts good for I really enjoy the sound of the dynavector. It tracks well and eliminates most surface noise.
Can anybody offer up some advice on the Benz Micro Ace (Medium or High)cartridge? I have heard good things about these cartridges. Not sure how they deal with surface noise problems. I do not have that much experience with carts. From what I have heard wioth my own ears, Dynavector really excels in regards to the elimination of surface noise. I am open to any other cart. suggestions.
Posted on: 12 February 2004 by gavagai
OOPS. My table is hooked up to a NAIT5/Stageline.
Posted on: 12 February 2004 by Tim Jones
gavagai -

Don't know about the 10x4, but my 17D2 MkII (which has a very different construction and stylus) lasted for three years of moderate (roughly two hours a day) use.

When it died (and you can often tell because they start picking up lots of fluff very quickly) I listened to a range of other, more expensive cartridges in the £500 - £1k bracket (although these did not include Benz Micros) and couldn't find anything better.

Tim
Posted on: 12 February 2004 by Jean-Marc
gavagai,

I used to have a Benz Micro Glider High (first model) that I run on a P3, a LP12/Ittok and then my current Thorens 124/Aro.

I found it to be very laid back, doing lots of the round earth thing, I'm afraid.
It was quite quiet in the groove, though, but a bit finicky to get VTA right.
Listening to music was plain uninteresting on the P3, a bit better on the LP12 and 124 (but there the difference is down to the TT)

I ultimately changed it for a Dynavector DV20XH.

If you like was your Dyna gives, your best bet is to upgrade with another Dyna.

Hope this helps
Jean-Marc
Posted on: 12 February 2004 by gavagai
Problem is,
My current dealer does not have dynavector. I really want to experiment with a different brand of cart, I just do not want to make a drastic mistake. Anybody out there using a clear audio cart?
Posted on: 13 February 2004 by gavagai
NAIMGAIM,
Are you saying that there really are no good alternatives to the Dynavector line in the 10X4, 10X5 price range? Are all the following cart. makers pooor in comparison: Grado, Clearaudio, Benz Micro, Rega, etc. Please someone offer some other suggestions or else I might just have to stick to the Dynavector line the rest of my life.
Posted on: 13 February 2004 by gavagai
That may not be so bad, but...