Denon 301 mk2

[Jimbo]

Initial impressions going from the 2M to the 301 is the lack of resolution and micro detail. Midrange and bottom end nice.
The 301 really brings out the soul of the singer on vocal material. Instruments are more fully fleshed out with 'more meat on the bone' as you said Marco.

However I am missing the top end detail of the 2M. The absolutely quite surface noise from the 301 is amazing. I have never heard a cartridge produce such little clicks or pops. If vinyl annoys you because of this, BUY this cartridge!

It is a very easy listening cartridge which turns in a great performance especially considering its price, less than half the 2M.
But I do miss the resolution and live acoustic the 2M delivers.

I don't think I have changed my opinions of the 301 and enjoy its musicality but it begs the question should I try a DL S1, its bigger brother which from memory had everything including fabulous detailed insight.

How would you describe the sound of the DL S1 Marco as you have lived with it for a long time and have a much clearer understanding of what it can do compared to the short periods I have listened to it?

[Marco]

Nice one, Jim. You're essentially describing the classic trade-off between an Elliptical and Shibata tip, but also the 'house sound' of both manufacturers concerned, as the voicing is rather different.

The DL-S1 is a different animal, and has the weight and richness of the DL-301, but also incredible midrange fluidity, and a sweeter top-end than the Ortofon, but just as refined and extended. It's also kind to surface noise, like the 301.

I also think it would work well on your VPI. If you can find one, I think you'd love it

Marco.

[worrasf]

Initial impressions going from the 2M to the 301 is the lack of resolution and micro detail. Midrange and bottom end nice.
The 301 really brings out the soul of the singer on vocal material. Instruments are more fully fleshed out with 'more meat on the bone' as you said Marco.

However I am missing the top end detail of the 2M. The absolutely quite surface noise from the 301 is amazing. I have never heard a cartridge produce such little clicks or pops. If vinyl annoys you because of this, BUY this cartridge!

It is a very easy listening cartridge which turns in a great performance especially considering its price, less than half the 2M.
But I do miss the resolution and live acoustic the 2M delivers.

I don't think I have changed my opinions of the 301 and enjoy its musicality but it begs the question should I try a DL S1, its bigger brother which from memory had everything including fabulous detailed insight.

How would you describe the sound of the DL S1 Marco as you have lived with it for a long time and have a much clearer understanding of what it can do compared to the short periods I have listened to it?

I have a DL-S1 and it is without doubt the best sounding cartridge I have owned/heard. Marco has nailed it's qualities.
I have a Croft 25RS/7 mono amp so very similar to you.
However, FWIW it only really gives of it's best when partnered with an appropriate SUT. I initially used a Denon AU-320 with good results but since partnering with the Denon AU-S1 (made for each other) it is truly awesome. So a word of warning - if you go down the DL-S1 road you might want to factor in a AU-S1 in the future - just saying
Steve

[Jimbo]

Steve/ Marco,

Thanks for your encouraging words regarding the DL S1. I appreciate the recommendation about partnering with an appropriate SUT. I have a very nice K&K SUT (thanks Marco) which works well with the 301 and can be reconfigured to work with the lower output of the DL S1. However I believe Marco gets the best out of his with a good head amp. I would certainly consider your route Steve with the Denon SUT.

Now just need to find a reasonably priced DL S1!

I am seriously considering this MC because I have heard it and it was truly superb and the memory of its performance was quite profound.

[CageyH]

There is a rebuilt one at North West Analogue, not that I should tempt you.

[Jimbo]

There is a rebuilt one at North West Analogue, not that I should tempt you.

Think it's sold Kev

[Marco]

No worries, James. However, my advice would be only to buy a bonafide, untampered with, DL-S1, otherwise it simply won't be the same. It's almost certainly going to involve importing from abroad, mostly likely Japan or the US, so you'll have to factor in the cost of tax and duty.

Marco.

[Marco]

No idea how good this used one is, but look at the price!

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/DENON-DL-...0/192349235502



Marco.

[Jimbo]

The word USED worries me especially at £1000 I think I would rather wait for an unused one to surface or buy from a known seller with an impeccable background

I have seen new boxed DL S1's appear occasionally. Would be nice if Denon started making them again!

[Marco]

Yeah, I totally agree. You need to keep looking though, and nab one as soon as it shows up!

I'll keep an eye out for you, too

Marco.