DYNAVECTOR XX-2 MKII

Pre owned. Comes with original packaging and manual.

The Dynavector XX-2 MKII represents the evolution of a project that has marked the history of moving coil cartridges. It is a direct descendant of the XX-1, the first cartridge to introduce the magnetic flux damper and the “softened magnetism” process, two patented technologies that reduce magnetic fluctuations responsible for distortion and signal instability. In the MKII version, these principles are further refined through the use of Alnico-5 magnets, which combine high magnetic flux density with low coercivity. This type of magnet reduces both magnetic and electrical resistance, ensuring exceptional output stability and a noticeable improvement in sound quality, with a more natural energy flow and a more coherent response.

The cartridge body is made from 7075 aluminum, an extremely hard and durable alloy, precisely machined to achieve maximum structural rigidity while keeping the total weight low at just 8.9 grams. This balance allows the XX-2 MKII to fit easily on a wide range of medium to high-mass tonearms. Its open-frame construction, with visible coil and magnet, provides a technical and functional appearance, reducing resonances and enhancing sonic transparency. Inside, a 6 mm solid boron cantilever supports a Pathfinder Line Contact stylus, ensuring optimal groove contact and precise tracking of even the finest details. The coil wire is made from PCOCC copper (Pure Copper Ohno Continuous Casting process), providing superior purity and conductivity.

With an output voltage of 0.28 mV and an impedance of 6 ohms, the XX-2 MKII is compatible with most moving coil phono stages, while the recommended tracking force range of 1.8–2.2 grams offers flexibility in setup. The sonic result is a sound of remarkable tonal and dynamic coherence. The bass is deep and solid yet always controlled and natural; the midrange is rich and transparent, with vocals rendered softly and realistically; the treble is lively and clear, without the harshness often found in other moving coil designs. The soundstage is stable and three-dimensional, with a wide and well-defined stage where each instrument occupies its space naturally.

The construction quality and engineering precision of the XX-2 MKII translate into a refined but never artificial listening experience, capable of enhancing both modern recordings and older vinyl. Despite the simplicity of its packaging, every detail reflects a clear philosophy: to invest resources in the sound rather than in unnecessary frills. This is a cartridge that delivers top-tier performance, comparable to models at a much higher price. The Dynavector XX-2 MKII remains one of the smartest and most musically satisfying choices for anyone seeking precise, fluid, and deeply engaging analog playback.

Technical specifications:

• Type: Low output moving coil cartridge with flux damper
• Output voltage: 0.28 mV (at 1 kHz, 5 cm/sec)
• Frequency response: 20–20,000 Hz (±1 dB)
• Channel separation: 30 dB (at 1 kHz)
• Channel balance: 1.0 dB (at 1 kHz)
• Compliance: 10 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne
• Internal impedance: 6 Ohm; Recommended load impedance: 30 Ohm
• Stylus type: PF Line Contact; Stylus tip radius: 7 × 30 µm
• Cantilever: 6 mm, solid boron
• Tracking force: 1.8–2.2 g
• Weight: 8.9 g