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 racedoc

Congrats as well from my side!

The ZYX 4D is an outstanding cartridge. 

If you use the 9,5" tonearm you should maybe make a test with
some additional weight at the headshell. The ZYX cartridgedes
work best with a total weight (eff. maas tonearm + cartridge +
mounting screws, headshells and weights) of about 25g.

If you use the 12" version you should be close to perfect.

I had the 4D in my system till a DS Audio bettered it. But before
it was hard to find something comparable. In my system it was
more involving than the top Lyras.
Hi artemus,

you should definitively try the 47k as well. That rocks!

But to be honest my 4D was playing most of the time with 320 Ohm.
Hhhmmm..

my ZYX R-1000 Airy 3 SL (4 Ohm) was more sensitive to higher
loads. It had a tendency to harshness when loaded with more than
320 Ohm.

My ZYX 4D XH (8 Ohm) was more flexible and played even with
47 kOhm phantastic.