Originally Posted by
Marco
Hi Alex,
The DL-103 Pro is essentially a stock DL-103 that has been specially modified by a small group of Ex-Denon employees, making cartridges, SUTs, etc, under the company name of Highphonic. And the 'Pro' is used in Japan at some radio stations for broadcasting purposes.
These guys really know what they're doing, having had lots of experience with Denon cartridges, so know how to get the best out of them. I believe that judicious changes are applied to the suspension system and compliance, but contrary to what is often said, Highphonic do not fit the cartridge with an elliptical stylus. The 103 Pro has the same conical (spherical) stylus as the stock DL-103.
However, the modifications undertaken cause some critical changes to the electrical characteristics of the cartridge, which you'll see below. if you compare the spec of the 'Pro' version against that of the stock model. I've emboldened the key differences, which result in the improved sound heard.
103 Pro:
・Output voltage: 0.25mV
・Compliance 6 x 10-6 cm/dyne
・Stylus: 16.5 micron round tip
・Frequency response: 20Hz - 55kHz
・Impedance: 38 ohm
・Tracking force: 1.8 - 2.4g
・Weight: 8.5g
Stock DL-103:
Output: 0.3 mV
Output Impedance: 40 ohms
Stylus: 16.5 Micron round tip
Frequency range: 20 Hz to 45 kHz
Tracking force: 2.3~2.7g
Compliance 5 x 10-6 cm/dyne
Weight: 8.5g.
The slightly lower output (less coil turns) and notably the extended high-frequency response, coupled with lower impedance, will combine to increase clarity and 'airiness' at the top end, whilst improving midrange lucidity.
I've used both cartridges extensively, and the 'Pro' version is notably superior, so I'm not surprised Peter is raving about it!
It won't be quite as good as a 103SA, simply because the 'Pro' is still housed in the stock plastic body shell, but it's not far off and has a charm and desirable sonic attributes of its own. No other DL-103 sounds quite like it.
Essentially, it performs like a cartridge costing around three times more than it does, and like most other 'race-tuned' 103s, is a serious bargain. Hope this helps :cool:
Marco.