Audio T Verdict
The Dynavector DV 20X2A sits in a particularly useful part of the cartridge range. It offers more sophisticated construction than the company's 10X models while still giving you the choice between high-output and low-output moving-coil versions.
The high-output 20X2A-H produces 2.8mV, making it a practical option if you already own a good moving-magnet phono stage and do not want to replace it simply to move into an MC cartridge. The low-output 20X2A-L takes the more traditional route with a 0.3mV output and is designed for a suitable MC phono stage, head amplifier or step-up transformer.
Mechanically, both versions are identical. A nude Micro-Ridge diamond is fitted to a 6mm hard-aluminium pipe cantilever, while the cartridge motor is housed within a solid aluminium-alloy body based on the same fundamental structure used further up Dynavector's range.
The major development is hidden inside. Dynavector uses a Special Annealing Magnetic Circuit based around pure iron. Rather than applying a generic heat treatment, the company controls temperature, environment, processing time and heating and cooling rates to optimise the magnetic properties of the finished components.
Flux Damper and Softened Magnetism technologies are also employed alongside powerful neodymium magnets, making the 20X2A much more than simply a change of stylus from the models below it.
At 9.2g with 12mm/N compliance, Dynavector describes the 20X2A as suitable for many light-to-medium-mass tonearms, although particularly heavy headshells are not recommended. Accurate alignment remains important because the fine Micro-Ridge stylus deserves considerably more care than simply bolting the cartridge into approximately the right position.
The choice between versions is straightforward: choose the high-output model if a suitable MM-stage-based system is your priority, or the low-output version if you already have proper MC amplification. Either way, the DV 20X2A is a cartridge worth taking the time to set up properly.
Dynavector DV 20X2A Moving Coil Cartridge
The DV 20X2A is available in two electrically different versions built around the same mechanical cartridge platform:
- DV 20X2A-H: High-output moving coil, 2.8mV
- DV 20X2A-L: Low-output moving coil, 0.3mV
Both versions feature:
- Solid aluminium-alloy body
- Special Annealing Magnetic Circuit
- Pure-iron magnetic components
- Dynavector Flux Damper
- Softened Magnetism technology
- Powerful neodymium magnets
- Nude Micro-Ridge diamond stylus
- 6mm hard-aluminium pipe cantilever
- 20Hz–20kHz ±2dB frequency response
- 25dB channel separation at 1kHz
- 1.0dB channel balance at 1kHz
- 12mm/N compliance
- 1.8–2.2g tracking-force range
- 9.2g cartridge weight
High Output or Low Output?
This is the most important choice to make before ordering the cartridge.
DV 20X2A-H High Output
- 2.8mV output
- 150-ohm internal impedance
- 1,000-ohm or greater recommended load
- Designed to work with suitable MM phono inputs
- No MC head amplifier required with an appropriate input
- No step-up transformer required with an appropriate input
DV 20X2A-L Low Output
- 0.3mV output
- 5-ohm internal impedance
- Greater than 30-ohm recommended load
- Requires suitable low-output MC gain
- Compatible with appropriate MC phono stages
- Can also be partnered with suitable step-up arrangements
Choose the Correct Version for Your Phono Stage
The high-output and low-output versions require very different amounts of phono-stage gain.
Do not choose simply on the assumption that low output is automatically better. The correct version is the one that matches your existing or planned phono stage properly.
If you are unsure, Audio T can check the gain and loading requirements before you order.
DV 20X2A-H High Output
The high-output version produces:
2.8mV at 1kHz / 5cm/sec.
Internal impedance is:
150 ohms.
Dynavector specifies a recommended load of:
1,000 ohms or greater.
This makes the high-output version particularly useful for customers who already own a good-quality MM phono stage.
How Does a High-Output MC Work?
Conventional low-output moving-coil cartridges generate a very small voltage and normally require substantially more gain than a moving-magnet cartridge.
Dynavector uses its fine-wire winding technology to increase the number of turns in the moving coils while keeping their mass controlled.
The result is a genuine moving-coil generator producing an output much closer to that expected by a conventional MM phono stage.
High Output Still Means Moving Coil
The 20X2A-H is not a moving-magnet cartridge.
Its moving-coil generator simply produces sufficient voltage to work with many higher-gain phono inputs normally associated with MM cartridges.
DV 20X2A-L Low Output
The low-output version produces:
0.3mV at 1kHz / 5cm/sec.
Internal impedance is:
5 ohms.
Dynavector recommends a load of:
Greater than 30 ohms.
The low-output model uses PCOCC wire within its coils and is intended for a properly matched MC phono system.
The Low-Output Version Needs MC Gain
A standard MM-only phono stage does not normally provide sufficient gain for a 0.3mV cartridge.
Use a suitable MC phono stage, head amplifier or correctly matched step-up transformer.
Gain and Loading Are Not the Same Thing
Phono-stage setup involves two separate considerations:
- Gain: how much the cartridge's tiny output signal is amplified
- Loading: the electrical impedance presented to the cartridge
A stage can provide an appropriate load while still offering too much or too little gain.
Both settings need to suit the cartridge version being used.
Special Annealing Magnetic Circuit
The magnetic circuit is at the heart of any moving-coil cartridge because the electrical signal is generated as the coils move within its magnetic field.
Dynavector uses pure iron for the magnetic components within the 20X2A because of its magnetic permeability and stability.
The components then undergo a specially developed annealing process.
What Is Magnetic Annealing?
Machining and processing metal can affect its microscopic crystal structure and therefore alter its magnetic properties.
Annealing involves carefully heating and cooling the finished components.
For the 20X2A, Dynavector controls factors including:
- Annealing temperature
- Processing environment
- Heating duration
- Rate of heating
- Rate of cooling
The objective is to optimise the magnetic properties of the pure-iron circuit after machining.
Why Does the Magnetic Circuit Matter?
The cartridge is generating electrical information from movements that are extraordinarily small.
Maintaining a stable magnetic field around the moving coils is therefore fundamental to consistent generator behaviour.
The Special Annealing process works alongside Dynavector's established magnetic-control technologies rather than replacing them.
Flux Damper
Dynavector's Flux Damper forms part of the cartridge's magnetic circuit.
The design is intended to control unwanted fluctuations in magnetic flux as the moving-coil generator operates.
Softened Magnetism
The 20X2A also uses Dynavector's Softened Magnetism technology.
Powerful neodymium magnets provide the magnetic strength required by the compact generator, while Dynavector's magnetic design focuses on controlling their behaviour rather than simply maximising magnetic strength.
Neodymium Magnets
Neodymium allows a very strong magnetic field to be produced from a relatively compact magnet structure.
This is particularly useful within a cartridge, where size and moving mass need to be controlled carefully.
Solid Aluminium-Alloy Body
The DV 20X2A uses a solid aluminium-alloy body.
Its base structure shares design principles with higher models including the XX-2A and Te Kaitora Rua.
The rigid body provides a stable mechanical interface between the generator and tonearm headshell.
Why Cartridge Rigidity Matters
The stylus is reading groove movements measured on a microscopic scale.
Unwanted movement between the cartridge body and headshell can therefore work against the cartridge's ability to translate stylus movement accurately into an electrical signal.
Mounting screws should be secure, but never overtightened to the point that the cartridge body or threads are damaged.
Nude Micro-Ridge Stylus
The DV 20X2A uses a nude Micro-Ridge diamond.
Nude means the diamond itself forms the stylus rather than being bonded onto a separate metal shank.
The Micro-Ridge profile has an extremely small contact radius in the direction of groove travel.
2-Micron Contact Radius
Dynavector states that the section of the Micro-Ridge stylus contacting the record groove has a radius of approximately:
2 microns.
The tip uses a narrow ridge-like contact surface rather than the simpler geometry of a conventional spherical stylus.
Why Use a Micro-Ridge Stylus?
The fine contact profile is intended to trace small groove modulations accurately.
Potential advantages include:
- Fine groove tracing
- Accurate high-frequency tracking
- Extended contact with the groove wall
- Resistance to rapid changes in contact geometry as the stylus wears
Accurate Alignment Is Important
The benefits of an advanced stylus profile also mean cartridge alignment deserves proper attention.
Setup can involve:
- Overhang
- Offset angle
- Tracking force
- Bias or anti-skate
- Tonearm height where adjustable
- Azimuth where adjustable
Do Not Guess Cartridge Alignment
Use the correct alignment geometry for your turntable and tonearm.
Poor alignment can increase distortion, compromise tracking and contribute to unnecessary record or stylus wear.
6mm Hard-Aluminium Pipe Cantilever
The Micro-Ridge stylus is mounted on a:
6mm hard-aluminium pipe cantilever.
The hollow construction allows Dynavector to combine useful rigidity with relatively low moving mass.
The cantilever transmits movement from the stylus directly into the moving-coil generator, so its mechanical properties are a fundamental part of the cartridge design.
9.2g Cartridge Weight
The DV 20X2A weighs:
9.2g.
This is heavier than some conventional MM and MC cartridges but remains within the adjustment range of many suitable tonearms.
12mm/N Compliance
Dynavector specifies compliance of:
12mm/N.
Compliance describes the mechanical flexibility of the cartridge suspension.
Dynavector describes the combination of 12mm/N compliance and 9.2g weight as suitable for many light-to-medium-mass tonearms.
Check Tonearm and Headshell Compatibility
Dynavector recommends avoiding unnecessarily heavy headshells with the 20X2A.
Before fitting, confirm that your tonearm provides suitable effective mass, cartridge-weight capacity, counterweight adjustment and cartridge alignment.
1.8–2.2g Tracking Force
Dynavector specifies a tracking-force range of:
1.8–2.2g.
An accurate stylus-force gauge is worthwhile when setting a cartridge with a fine Micro-Ridge profile.
Do Not Deliberately Track Too Lightly
Setting tracking force below the manufacturer's recommended range does not automatically protect your records.
Insufficient force can allow the stylus to mistrack and lose secure contact with the groove.
Bias or Anti-Skate
After tracking force has been established, set the tonearm's bias or anti-skate according to the arm manufacturer's instructions.
The correct method varies between tonearm designs.
20Hz to 20kHz Frequency Response
Dynavector specifies:
20Hz–20kHz ±2dB.
25dB Channel Separation
Channel separation is specified at:
25dB at 1kHz.
This describes the cartridge's ability to keep information recorded on the left and right groove walls electrically distinct.
1.0dB Channel Balance
Published channel balance is:
1.0dB at 1kHz.
A Phono Stage Is Essential
Do Not Connect the Cartridge Directly to AUX or CD
A normal line-level input does not provide the gain or RIAA equalisation required by a phono cartridge.
The 20X2A must be connected through a suitable phono stage before reaching a conventional line-level amplifier input.
Using a Step-Up Transformer
The low-output 20X2A-L can be partnered with an appropriate MC step-up transformer before a suitable MM phono stage.
Correct transformer matching should consider:
- 5-ohm cartridge impedance
- Transformer turns ratio
- Load presented by the following phono stage
- Required overall gain
Active MC Stage or Step-Up Transformer?
Both approaches can work well when correctly matched.
The best choice depends on your existing phono stage, amplifier and wider system rather than the cartridge in isolation.
Stylus Care
Keeping records and the Micro-Ridge stylus clean helps maintain consistent groove contact.
Good practice includes:
- Keep records free from dust and contamination
- Use an appropriate stylus-cleaning method
- Lower the stylus gently using the cueing mechanism
- Avoid touching the cantilever
- Keep fingers and cleaning cloths away from the stylus assembly
- Protect the cartridge when working around the tonearm
The Stylus and Cantilever Are Delicate
Do not push the stylus sideways or towards the cartridge body during cleaning.
A small accidental force applied in the wrong direction can damage the cantilever, suspension or stylus assembly.
No User-Replaceable Stylus
Dynavector moving-coil cartridges do not use the removable stylus assembly commonly found on many moving-magnet cartridges.
The stylus should not be pulled out or replaced at home.
Dynavector Exchange Service
Dynavector provides an exchange programme for eligible out-of-warranty moving-coil cartridges.
If your 20X2A eventually requires attention due to stylus wear or accidental damage, contact Audio T to discuss the appropriate Dynavector service or exchange route.
Professional Cartridge Fitting
Cartridge installation can involve considerably more than simply attaching four wires and tightening two screws.
A complete setup can include:
- Physical cartridge mounting
- Overhang adjustment
- Offset-angle alignment
- Tracking-force adjustment
- Bias or anti-skate setup
- Tonearm height where adjustable
- Azimuth where adjustable
- Phono-stage gain selection
- Phono-stage loading
If you are not confident carrying out these adjustments accurately, professional fitting is worthwhile.
DV 20X2A or 10XA?
Both current models offer high-output and low-output options and use Dynavector's Special Annealing approach, but the 20X2A moves to a more substantial cartridge structure and Micro-Ridge stylus.
Dynavector 10XA
- High or low output
- Special Magnetic Annealing
- Nude Shibata III stylus
- 6mm aluminium cantilever
- 12mm/N compliance
- 7.5g cartridge weight
Dynavector 20X2A
- High or low output
- Special Annealing Magnetic Circuit
- Nude Micro-Ridge stylus
- 6mm aluminium pipe cantilever
- Solid aluminium-alloy body
- 12mm/N compliance
- 9.2g cartridge weight
Compare the Dynavector 10XA at Audio T.
DV 20X2A or XX-2A?
The XX-2A sits above the 20X2A within Dynavector's current moving-coil range and takes a more specialised low-output approach.
DV 20X2A
- High or low output versions
- 2.8mV or 0.3mV
- Hard-aluminium pipe cantilever
- Micro-Ridge stylus
- 12mm/N compliance
- 9.2g weight
XX-2A
- Low output only
- 0.28mV output
- Solid-boron cantilever
- PF line-contact stylus
- 10mm/N compliance
- 8.9g weight
Compare the Dynavector XX-2A at Audio T.
Hear What the 20X2A Can Do
Our Cardiff team has spent time listening to the low-output DV 20X2A and exploring the Special Annealing technology behind its magnetic circuit.
Read Audio T Cardiff's feature on the Dynavector 20X2A.
Who Is the Dynavector DV 20X2A For?
Well Suited To
- Quality turntable systems
- Light-to-medium-mass tonearms
- Customers upgrading from entry-level MC cartridges
- MM-based systems choosing the high-output version
- Dedicated MC systems choosing the low-output version
- Adjustable MC phono stages
- Customers wanting a Micro-Ridge stylus
- Carefully aligned vinyl systems
Check Before Buying
- Choose high or low output correctly
- Confirm phono-stage gain
- Confirm phono-stage loading
- 9.2g cartridge weight
- 12mm/N compliance
- Avoid unnecessarily heavy headshells
- 1.8–2.2g tracking-force range
- Micro-Ridge stylus needs accurate alignment
- No user-replaceable stylus
Key Features
- Dynavector DV 20X2A
- 20X2A-H high-output version
- 20X2A-L low-output version
- Moving-coil generator
- 2.8mV high output
- 0.3mV low output
- Special Annealing Magnetic Circuit
- Pure-iron magnetic components
- Flux Damper
- Softened Magnetism
- Neodymium magnets
- Solid aluminium-alloy body
- Nude Micro-Ridge stylus
- Approximately 2-micron Micro-Ridge contact radius
- 6mm hard-aluminium pipe cantilever
- 20Hz–20kHz ±2dB
- 25dB channel separation
- 1.0dB channel balance
- 12mm/N compliance
- 1.8–2.2g tracking force
- 150-ohm high-output impedance
- 5-ohm low-output impedance
- High-output load 1,000 ohms or greater
- Low-output load greater than 30 ohms
- 9.2g cartridge weight
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Dynavector DV 20X2A a moving-coil cartridge?
Yes. Both the high-output and low-output versions use moving-coil generators.
Are there two versions?
Yes. The 20X2A-H is high output and the 20X2A-L is low output.
What is the output of the 20X2A-H?
2.8mV at 1kHz / 5cm/sec.
What is the output of the 20X2A-L?
0.3mV at 1kHz / 5cm/sec.
Can the high-output version work with an MM phono stage?
Yes, provided the phono stage offers suitable gain and loading. Dynavector specifically designs the high-output model for use with many MM inputs without requiring an MC step-up device.
Can the low-output version work directly with a standard MM-only phono stage?
No. The 0.3mV low-output model requires suitable MC gain or an appropriate step-up arrangement.
What is the impedance of the high-output version?
150 ohms.
What load does the high-output model require?
Dynavector specifies 1,000 ohms or greater.
What is the impedance of the low-output version?
5 ohms.
What load does the low-output model require?
Dynavector specifies greater than 30 ohms.
What does the A in 20X2A refer to?
The 20X2A incorporates Dynavector's Special Annealing Magnetic Circuit, in which the pure-iron magnetic components undergo a carefully controlled heating and cooling process.
What stylus does the 20X2A use?
A nude Micro-Ridge diamond.
What is special about a Micro-Ridge stylus?
Its fine ridge-shaped contact profile is designed to trace very small groove modulations accurately. Dynavector states that the groove-contact radius is approximately 2 microns.
Does a Micro-Ridge stylus need accurate alignment?
Yes. Accurate overhang, offset angle and tracking force are particularly worthwhile with a fine-contact stylus profile.
What is the cantilever made from?
A 6mm hard-aluminium pipe.
What is the cartridge body made from?
Solid aluminium alloy.
What is the frequency response?
20Hz to 20kHz ±2dB.
What is the channel separation?
25dB at 1kHz.
What is the channel balance?
1.0dB at 1kHz.
What is the compliance?
12mm/N.
What tracking force should I use?
Dynavector specifies 1.8–2.2g.
How much does the cartridge weigh?
9.2g.
What type of tonearm suits the 20X2A?
Dynavector describes it as suitable for many light-to-medium-mass tonearms and recommends avoiding unnecessarily heavy headshells.
Can I replace the stylus myself?
No. Dynavector moving-coil cartridges do not have a user-replaceable stylus assembly.
What happens when the stylus wears out?
Contact Audio T to discuss the appropriate Dynavector exchange or service options.
Can I connect the cartridge directly to an AUX input?
No. A suitable phono stage providing the necessary gain and RIAA equalisation is required.
Can Audio T fit and align the cartridge?
Yes. Contact your local Audio T store to discuss cartridge fitting, tonearm setup, gain and phono-stage loading.
Which version should I buy?
Choose the 20X2A-H if you intend to use a suitable higher-gain or MM phono stage. Choose the 20X2A-L if you already have suitable low-output MC amplification or an appropriate step-up arrangement.
Related Dynavector Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Turntable and cartridge matching
- High-output and low-output MC advice
- MM and MC phono-stage matching
- Tonearm compatibility checks
- Cartridge fitting and alignment
- Tracking-force setup
- Bias and anti-skate adjustment
- Phono-stage gain and loading advice
- Step-up transformer matching
- Turntable setup
- Stylus-care guidance
- Dynavector exchange and service advice
- Part-exchange options
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to discuss whether the Dynavector DV 20X2A-H or 20X2A-L is the right match for your turntable, tonearm and phono stage.