I’ve got the itch for an upgrade on my system. My current Dynavector 10x2 MkII is on its last legs, so I need to make some sort of decision regarding the system. I’ll list it below, but my thoughts are I could go three ways. So I’m looking for advice on which path will be the most appropriate and best bang for my buck.
All options would be similar in upgrade costs taking into account trade-ins etc.
Option one
Trade in the existing turntable, then new or demo turntable and cartridge. Probably Planar 8 or 10. Dependant on demo/2nd hand price.
Limiting speakers = limiting sound… My recommendation is before anything else to get the speakers as good as you can afford, subject to amp being sufficiently adequate to not lose control, unless something else is broken preventing music play or very literally about to reach that point. Buying ex-dem or secondhand would maximise buying power (and speakers last for decades). The source first brigade will say otherwise, but in my experience as long as you have a half decent source (which you do), then this is the best route to musical satisfaction.
The Dynavector XX2MkII is a wonderful cartridge. If you play a lot of records, that would be my suggestion, even if it means getting a step-up amp as well.
Looks like a balanced system. I’d definitely sort the cartridge and don’t dare start an upgrade ladder. Instead park funds long term until you’re ready for a big bang whole system upgrade in a few years.
I’m a huge believer in big bang upgrades. Go from one perfectly balanced system to the next with minimal mucking about in between. Just a decade or more of music.
It does seem the logical approach and what I’m leaning towards. The new Regas are nice and better, but how much better? Is a P8 much better than a P7? Perhaps, perhaps not.
Well only you can figure that one out Stereolabb by having a listen to the P8 and P10 vs your P7
I don’t know much about the Rega TT’s ( being a Sondek person myself) but I assume the P8 and P10 may have a better tonearm than the P7 ? But could be wrong there ?
If the tonearm is better then you should get the benefit of the DVXX -2 cartridge otherwise it might be debatable with the P7 perhaps ?