The Ear has long admired Dynavector for their excellence in creating high-quality cartridges, and their review of the Dynavector XX-2A continues this tradition.
The publication’s enthusiasm for the XX-2A is palpable, highlighting its innovative features and remarkable sound quality.
Historical Context and Innovations
Dynavector, established in 1978 by Dr Noboru Tominari, has consistently pushed the boundaries in cartridge design.
The excitement of Dynavector’s early achievements
The Ear recalls the excitement of Dynavector’s early achievements, such as the high-output moving coil 10X and the Karat series, known for their gemstone cantilevers. The XX-2A continues this legacy with its advanced magnetic circuit and use of Alnico magnets, which are praised for their lower magnetic resistance and superior sound quality.
XX-2A Technical Specifications
The Ear notes that the XX-2A includes a 6mm solid boron cantilever and a Pathfinder line contact stylus. The body is machined from aluminium, ensuring durability and precision. Stainless steel bolts secure the front and rear yokes of the magnetic circuit, and the cartridge boasts an output voltage of 0.28mV with a recommended load impedance of more than 30 Ohms. These specifications contribute to the cartridge’s excellent performance.
XX-2A Sound Quality
When it comes to sound, The Ear’s review is glowing. The XX-2A was tested with a Pro-Ject Evo Premium arm and Avid Accent integrated amplifier, producing impressive results.
At a load impedance of 30 Ohms, the XX-2A delivered open and dynamic piano sounds, sharp and punchy drums, and tuneful bass guitar lines.
The Ear was particularly impressed with the cartridge’s ability to handle different tracking forces, finding that a tracking force of 1.8g provided the best sound quality.
XX-2A Listening tests
The Ear’s listening tests included a variety of music genres and recordings. The XX-2A conveyed the energy and dynamics of jazz and rock tracks with precision.
On Ben Sidran’s “Bop City,” the cartridge captured the relentless energy of the bass guitar, the clean and tight drums, and the expressive vocals.
Similarly, on Bob James and David Sanborn’s “Double Vision,” the XX-2A handled the complex bass lines and powerful saxophone notes with ease, delivering a balanced and articulate performance.
For acoustic music, the XX-2A also excelled. The Ear highlighted the cartridge’s performance on Stephen Fearing’s “The Secret of Climbing,” noting how it captured the expressiveness of the vocals and the articulation of the guitar.
The cartridge conveyed the dynamics and power of the music, making it feel as if Fearing was performing live in the room.
Conclusion on the XX-2A
In conclusion, The Ear is highly impressed with the Dynavector XX-2A. The review praises its detailed, dynamic, and engaging sound, noting that it provides great insights into the music.
Vocals are described as natural and uncoloured, with a foot-tapping, tuneful quality that makes listening a pleasure.
At £1,799, The Ear considers the XX-2A to be excellent value for money and highly recommends it to those in the market for a high-quality moving coil cartridge.
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