Hear in Harmony: Innovative Dynavector XX-2A MC Phono Cartridge Combines Exceptional Vibration System and Annealing Magnetic Circuit, Plays with Superb Resolution and Dynamics
Benefitting from an annealing magnetic circuit — which rejuvenates the distorted crystal structure and restores magnetic permeability to its original state — the Dynavector XX-2A MC phono cartridge represents the latest innovation from one of the world’s preeminent cartridge builders. Engineered to deliver superb resolution, smooth tones, expansive soundstages, and wide-range dynamics, the low-output XX-2A also features a flux damper and alnico magnet for a high signal-to-noise ratio (S/N) and excellent transient response. Dynavector's patented Flux Damping technology stabilizes magnetic flux within the air gap, resulting in consistent performance across the frequency spectrum.
Built by hand in Japan by skilled artisans, XX-2A claims a 0.28mV output voltage for excellent compatibility with an array of phonostages. Its 10mm/N compliance and 8.9-gram weight mean the same for tonearms. A 6mm-long solid boron cantilever with a PathFinder line contact stylus adds to its spoils and completes a vibration system that further ensures accurate tracking.
Read more about Dynavector’s breakthrough of improving the physical properties of its magnetic circuits below or, if you’re ready to hear your vinyl in an entirely new light, know that this manufacturer has been exceeding expectations for more than 45 years. That legend continues with XX-2A.
"This is a confident-sounding cartridge. It handles even the most difficult to-track records with ease. It plays records with very little surface noise, managing to make less-than-pristine records sound clean and quiet.”
— Micheal Trei, Stereophile
More About Magnetic Annealing
While an exceptional vibration system is essential for a high-performance MC cartridge, Dynavector emphasizes the critical role of the magnetic circuit. The cartridge's output signal is intricately tied to the movement of the vibration system within the magnetic circuit, where electricity is generated as the coil vibrates amidst the magnetic flux. To ensure optimal output, it is imperative that the magnetic flux maintains high density and stability. Dynavector employs pure iron for its magnetic circuit due to the metal's high magnetic permeability and exceptional stability, resulting in a distortion-free output. However, the processing of metal parts often distorts the crystal structure at the atomic level, leading to a loss of magnetic permeability. Magnetic annealing, a process of heating and cooling processed parts, is crucial for restoring the distorted metal crystal structure and regenerating magnetic permeability. However, a generic magnetic annealing cannot fully restore distortions in the crystal structure. The magnetic annealing conditions vary depending on the parts material, size, shape, etc. Dynavector's recent development focused on finding the best magnetic annealing process, including temperature, environment, duration, and heating and cooling rates. This meticulous approach enabled Dynavector us to unleash the full potential of pure iron's unique magnetic performance. The new magnetic circuit in XX-2A has significantly enhanced sound quality. Experience the natural, dynamic sound of XX-2A cartridge, where an exceptional vibration system seamlessly harmonizes with an optimized magnetic circuit.
- Type: low output moving coil cartridge with flux damper and alnico magnet
- Output Voltage: 0.28 mV (at 1KHz, 5cm/sec.)
- Channel Separation: 30 dB (at 1KHz)
- Channel balance: 1.0 dB (at 1KHz)
- Frequency response: 20 - 20,000 Hz(±1dB)
- Compliance: 10 mm/N
- Tracking force: 1.8 - 2.2 g
- Impedance: 6 ohms
- Recommended load impedance: > 30 ohms
- Cantilever: 6mm length solid boron
- Stylus tip: PF Line contact shape, stylus radius: 7 x 30 micron
- Weight: 8.9 g
User Manual (PDF, 983 KB)