ZYX "House" Sound


I am searching for a different sound in my system. I'm currently using the Shelter 901 MkIII and the Koetsu Rosewood Signature. I consider both to be on the warm side of neutral. I'd like to find a very good quality cartridge that is a bit more neutral. I don't want "clinical". I cannot cope with cymbals that sound like white noise with emphasis on the upper octaves. System is: MS DD-40 (2 tables), SUT using the Cimemag 1254 Tranny, Paragon Model E tube preamp (used as a phono pre) and Musical Surroundings Nova phono pre, Levinson control amp, Bryston 2.5B cubed power amp, Revel bookshelf speakers and HSU sub.

I've been seriously considering ZYX for my next cartridge. There are reviews of the top and bottom of the line ZYX cartridges, but little in between. I've contacted Mehran at Sorasound. Based on my budget, he suggested the Ultimate (Exceed) 4D or the Ultimate (Exceed) Omega.

Not many reviews for these mid-tier cartridges. Is anyone familiar with the sound of these cartridges? Does ZYX have a "house" sound? I'm not concerned by the naming confusion nor any of the other negative comments I've read. They're not constructive. I really want to understand where the ZYX cartridges fit in the cool to warm spectrum. There may be other brands to look at, and I'm doing that. This post is about the ZYX sound.

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Showing 1 response by petg60

House sound is a bit general as a term, since some models in the range have some differences. All are though on the warmer side in the mids but so nicely extended, have incredible detail and resolution, tight bass, are neutral, have tonal accuracy and speed. Technically they have great separation, great imaging, are extremely quiet on the groove, they are good trackers but not the best, their stylus lasts long and require medium mass arms. They are sensitive to VTF and AS. Now considering the new Exceed line, what i have noticed after listening to the 100, is a more lively treble compared to previous Ultimate. Still find my 4D Ultimate to sound superb. Anyway somebody else could give you an answer with better english and with more simple words. Still considered one of the few top manufacturers today along with Excel Sound, MSL and Top Wing.