Dynavector P75 mkIII vs Rega Aria

[lvs222]

After all the hype I heard about the Dynavector 20x2L cartridge paired with the P75 mkIII phono stage I put in a special order at my hi-fi shop (as they don't typically stock Dynavector). Very excited I went into the shop for my demo and to my surprise the results were very underwhelming. As the hi-fi shop are a Rega agent we swapped out the P75 mkIII for the Rega Aria and there it was, the Aria pulled out the goods, this was the legendary sound I was expecting to hear. I was not even being picky, a deaf man could have heard the difference. Has anyone had any experience using these two with the 20x2L and would be able to comment? The Dynavector supplier said they have never had a bad P75, but I'm starting to wonder if this is the first. Or is the Aria legitimately superior?

 

[nopiano]

I have not compared phono stages since I bought my very modest Rega Fono mini, but I am not so surprised. If you've read other threads here before, you will know that the ear is easily fooled by slightly louder presentation into preferring one item over another. And even if precisely matched, which I rather doubt, the Aria is a good product that might well be preferable.

If you like it more than your current phono stage then you are unlikely to be disappointed!

Welcome to the forum!