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mikeyb
09-02-2016, 13:04
Hi,

Just bought a Zu Denon 103, aluminum bodied one so it will be a mark I, it is for fitting onto my Technics 1210 Mk5, with standard arm, I intend to try a jelco 750 once I find a decently priced used one, I was just wondering if there was anything else I needed for optimum performance.

It will just be used into my mc input in my TQ Claymore amp ( at least until I buy a separate phono stage ).

However I wondered if I'd be as well with a SUT instead and just use that into the Aux on my amp.

I've seen a Bobs 1131 Cinemag version for sale and it seems to be sell regarded, worth buying?

Thanks in advance for any help.

Mike.
Firebottle
09-02-2016, 13:24
Just to point out Mike that you can't use a SUT directly into an Aux (Line level) input.

A SUT needs to be connected into an MM input.
mikeyb
09-02-2016, 17:55
Just to point out Mike that you can't use a SUT directly into an Aux (Line level) input.

A SUT needs to be connected into an MM input.

Ah, didn't know that, so then all a SUT does is boost the output to MM levels.

Mike.
walpurgis
09-02-2016, 17:57
Ah, didn't know that, so then all a SUT does is boost the output to MM levels.

Mike.

Yes.
mikeyb
09-02-2016, 18:00
Yes.

Learning every day :)
Ali Tait
09-02-2016, 18:17
Yes, then it needs a phono stage to apply the RIAA curve and amplify to line level. Then it can be plugged into an amp input.
mikeyb
09-02-2016, 20:54
Yes, then it needs a phono stage to apply the RIAA curve and amplify to line level. Then it can be plugged into an amp input.
Thanks Ali, looks like I'd be as well with a phono stage.
DSJR
09-02-2016, 22:43
Of course, the phono stage you've borrowed can be re-configured (four resistors) to MC - cough...

If you're not sure, PLEASE don't set about butchering your 1210mk5 unless you know what you're doing. The arm on this version is supposedly better than the mk2 model and it's better wired too according to Technics. Sending the arm assembly to Audio Origami for fettling and a possible foam fill may be all you need to do, in addition to a better headshell and a Speedy Steve counterweight to balance it out - the ZU is very heavy I think.

Just a few thoughts...
mikeyb
11-02-2016, 14:06
It's here ......

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160211/5a1952e0c5b1536fa93e44e2c656328f.jpg

I'll no doubt find out I've fitted the spacer the wrong way round.
jandl100
11-02-2016, 15:17
I used a Zu in a Pioneer PL-71.
Very nice sound - loved it!

You have any issues setting the tracking force? - it is a very heavy cart. I had to bluetac an additional weight on to the arm's counterweightt to make it balance!

Also the 103 is only 0.3mV output - is the Claymore 'stage high enough gain, or is there some hiss with the volume at a decent level?

Lovely cartridge - well worth making it happy! :thumbsup:
mikeyb
11-02-2016, 15:24
I used a Zu in a Pioneer PL-71.
Very nice sound - loved it!

You have any issues setting the tracking force? - it is a very heavy cart. I had to bluetac an additional weight on to the arm's counterweightt to make it balance!

Also the 103 is only 0.3mV output - is the Claymore 'stage high enough gain, or is there some hiss with the volume at a decent level?

Lovely cartridge - well worth making it happy! :thumbsup:
Hi,

A £2 coin and 2 x £1 coins taped to the end of the standard techie weight has done the trick.

Sounds really good, not had a serious listen as I'm currently babysitting my dad who is just out of hospital after hip op and my two grandkids are here too lol, but a quick listen to some tracks and it sounds really good.

The MC input certainly seems comparable to the MM input gain wise.

I'll report more once I get time.

Mike.
Jimbo
11-02-2016, 16:47
I nearly bought a ZU myself Mike, may still do but decided on a Denon 301 Mk2 instead as it would be more compatible with my tonearm.

Interested to hear your comments.
mikeyb
11-02-2016, 19:38
I nearly bought a ZU myself Mike, may still do but decided on a Denon 301 Mk2 instead as it would be more compatible with my tonearm.

Interested to hear your comments.
The 301 looks a good one too, I only bought the Zu when it came up on eBay on Tuesday. I don't even know if it was a good price or not but it was cheaper than new and had supposedly been checked over prior to sale, so I figured I'd be safe enough with it.
mikeyb
15-02-2016, 09:58
The Zu 103 is excellent ( just into the mc input in TQ amp ), I've compared it with my 2m Blue into NVA phono 2 and there is no comparison, 2m Blue up for sale shortly lol.