I have joined in the ZYX Family


Funny how change comes about. I’ve been intending to get a tube preamp for years 10-12 years. Instead, I got a tube amp which sounds great. . Tube amp with SS preamp sounds GREAT. FWIW, the SS Preamp was a Stereophile Class A Conrad Johnson PFR. So, its not like I was shooting in the dark. The PFR is a really good preamp. And the Bob Latino ST-70 seems to be a great fit along with the Silverline Sonatas. So I set out to get my turntable up to its optimum. I have a Teres 340 which has an Origin Live Illustrious 3 with Benz Ebony L cartridge. I put the OL Illustrious on it as a temporary arm. I figured the Teres deserved much better. But Maybe I am wrong. It sounds great. However, being an audiophile, I can’t leave it alone. So I set out to get a new tonearm worthy of the Teres 340. But then someone reminds me that a cartridge will make more difference than a tonearm upgrade, especially since the tonearm is a pretty good one. . So I consider the idea and come across a ZYX 4D for a good price. Thank you Raulirigueus(sp) for the idea. In the process, I saved some $$$ too. I’ve wanted a ZYX for quite some time. NOW, I see what all the fuss is about. This cartridge is fabulous. Next up is to clean the electric. Oneac seems to be a good way to go. But, who knows. My plans often go sideways. But I’ve really made some big steps forward thanks to some good advice and the good Lord above who over rules my ignorance. FWIW I often pity those who miss the beauty of good music. I love it. Thanks for your help along the way.
128x128artemus_5

Showing 3 responses by pbnaudio

Have had several ZYX Cartridges including the Universe2 and the Diamond - they both were fantastic sounding Cartridges.  

The Diamond suffered a broken cantilever at the hands of my customers Grandchild. Repair at ZYX at the time was almost the price of a new cartridge so we had Andy at Needle Doctor repair it, he did an ok but not great job on that one so I now have it at SoundSmith for a total replacement of the cantilever/stylus. Lets see how that goes.  

I was at a customers house a few days ago to do a complete system setup including installation of a rebuilt Lyra Skala by SoundSmith if any indication of what to expect on the Diamond I'm very reassured Sound Smith had done a fantastic job with the Skala.

Good Listening

Peter       
Chakster,

The cartridge I currently use, the Ortofon MC Anna should be right up your ally then :-) comes with a offset printed Manual, a Solid Oak Case lined with Velour, a tool kit in its own sown bag.  

https://www.ortofon.com/mc-anna-p-156

Probably the best packaging job of any cartridge I have owned

Good Listening


Peter 
Lewm,

I used a Universe 2 for a little while - it is an excellent cartridge.  Its surprising how well the ZYX sounds in spite of the cheapie looking plastic casing they are mounted in.  

Good Listening

Peter