Best cartridge matching approach question

Posted by: LennyK on 06 March 2001

I am seeking advice regarding my LP playback.

I currently have LP12/Aro/Armageddon/Lyra Lydian Beta/102/Supercap/250/Katans.

The Cartridge is not a good match with the current phono boards due to its relatively high output. I use the K boards as these sound the best.

Since I like the Lyra cartridges presentation, I am considering purchasing the new Lyra Halikon, the special version that has a lower output matched to the Naim K boards.

The Halikon with trade-in costs about $2000 US dollars.

Here are my Three options:

1. Purchase Lyra Halikon.

2. Purchasing an outboard phono pre-amp from another manufacturer that is matched to the cartridge I now have.

3. Purchase a less expensive cartridge that matches the Naim K phono boards well, and use a Naim phono pre-amp such as the Prefix or the new outboard pre-amp.

All options cost about the same.

I will ultimately get a dedicated phono pre-amp at some point, and prefer to stay all Naim.

Thank you for your suggestions.

Lennart Kisner

Posted on: 07 March 2001 by LennyK
Thanks for your questions regarding my post.

The last thing I want to do is put doubt into any ones mind regarding the use of the Lydian B with Naim phono amplification.

The following is regarding the Lydian Beta and K/S boards combination only. Not the E boards.

I agree that the pair do not create any obvious distortions, but in my system, to my ears, I sense that this combination can be overbearing at times. Rock is no problem, but Jazz/Classical tends to be a bit too strong (my opinion). I have used other cartridges that were lower output, more closely matched to the K boards design, and they sounded very balanced. With the Lydian B, the architecture is very good, but the gentle aspects of the music seem less, well, gentle. For lack of a better description, the lower output cartridges “sounded” more analog. I have also spoken to someone very knowledgeable with Naim systems, who is of a similar opinion.

This is in no way a criticism of the Lydian Beta. Of all the cartridges I have used in its price range, it portrays the energy and excitement of the music the most.

I believe the first Lydian was a lower output design, therefore my comments do not address that cartridge.

All said, I may find myself yearning for the Lydian B combination on rock programs. I the end I might have two Aro arms, one for rock, the other for Jazz/Classical. I would not be the first.

I hope I have been clear with my response.

Lennart Kisner

Posted on: 12 March 2001 by LennyK
James, I am no expert when it comes to these matters, but as I said, I do have some experience with other cartridges. I don't think I meant the dynamic range was compromised, but that the music can seem a bit forced at times. I'm trying not to stumble over myself trying to make my points. During gentler passages, it feels like the musicians are rushing. I don't know if it is the pacing or dynamics. Using the E boards with the Lydian Beta eases things up, such that the presentation seems more natural. Unfortunately the resolution and energy is lost with these boards. My guess is that the K boards were designed for cartridges with an output of less than .25. Also, other factors with which the cartridge interacts with its amplification are important, not just its output. Cartridges with higher outputs probably begin to fall outside what the K boards may have been optimized for. I guess I'm looking for a cartridge that works like the Lydian B, but is optimized output wise for a really good K board match.
Lennart