View Full Version : DL103 R.
KAWASAKI ADDICT
06-12-2020, 07:42
I've been using a 2m Black, and AT440mlb for the past couple of years. I'm now itching to try MC Carts, and from what I've read, the Denon DL103 R is a very good place to start. Apparently a Phono stage with 60db+ gain is necessary for the Denon. Mine has only 54db. Does this mean that I shouldn't buy the 103r, or will I just need to increase Amp volume? Any advice will be appreciated. Thanks.
I've been using a 2m Black, and AT440mlb for the past couple of years. I'm now itching to try MC Carts, and from what I've read, the Denon DL103 R is a very good place to start. Apparently a Phono stage with 60db+ gain is necessary for the Denon. Mine has only 54db. Does this mean that I shouldn't buy the 103r, or will I just need to increase Amp volume? Any advice will be appreciated. Thanks.
This may be a good place to start
http://https://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?71588-SUT-for-Denon-DL-103R
walpurgis
06-12-2020, 09:09
The difference between 60db and 54db is so minimal you'd be pushed to hear it. I'd not be concerned.
walpurgis
06-12-2020, 09:17
This may be a good place to start
http://https://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?71588-SUT-for-Denon-DL-103R
Link not working for me.
2threads on this page with DL103R in the title - worth reading
I can’t make links work:(
https://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?71588-SUT-for-Denon-DL-103R
https://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?71588-SUT-for-Denon-DL-103R
Nice one :)
I’d better have a word with my IT department :eyebrows:
walpurgis
06-12-2020, 10:22
The link to a thread about SUT's is useful, but digresses from the original question about the gain of the existing phono stage, which I think should be suitable,
KAWASAKI ADDICT
06-12-2020, 10:30
Thanks Everyone. I shall order one today. Good to hear, because I had set my heart on one. Apparently "Giant killer" is the general opinion of the reviews I've read. Will update after run-in period. Cheers!
walpurgis
06-12-2020, 10:33
I preferred the 103R to the basic 103 myself.
KAWASAKI ADDICT
06-12-2020, 23:49
It's the 103r that I have ordered. Seems AV Online has had a run on them today. They had 7 in stock when I ordered, and within 4 hours, they were sold out!! I'm not surprised at £269.
dreamer69
07-12-2020, 05:57
It's the 103r that I have ordered. Seems AV Online has had a run on them today. They had 7 in stock when I ordered, and within 4 hours, they were sold out!! I'm not surprised at £269.
Have you used AVonline before? I ask because they’ve got some great technics 1200gr bundles at the moment but their reviews are mixed to say the least
KAWASAKI ADDICT
07-12-2020, 08:02
I have a 1200 GR already. (tweaked) I bought it for £1100, from RS 3 yrs ago.
It's the 103r that I have ordered. Seems AV Online has had a run on them today. They had 7 in stock when I ordered, and within 4 hours, they were sold out!! I'm not surprised at £269.
They are even cheaper here ! - https://www.harrowaudiohifi.co.uk/en/denon-dl103-5?gclid=eaiaiqobchmijotb9mm77qivcu_tch0ewwvieaqyay abegl2mvd_bwe
I loved mine when I had it. It also taught me the importance of cleaning my records properly. It dragged up all the embedded dust in the groove. It spurred me on to get an Okki Nokki.
walpurgis
07-12-2020, 09:50
It's not a 103R though.
I bought my DL-304 from there years ago, it's a good shop.
bbbiker800
07-12-2020, 18:18
Pfm has a Lounge Audio Copla stage for Yr MC. It's still available. Quite unique - variable impedance head amp. I've no association with the seller - I do have a lounge tho
It's not a 103R though.
I bought my DL-304 from there years ago, it's a good shop.
Well spotted! I'll make sure I have my coffee before posting :lol:
KAWASAKI ADDICT
09-12-2020, 08:55
The 103r arrived yesterday. Very easy to set up. With the HF News Test LP, it passed all 4 bias tests with no problems. I have it tracking at 2.5g and initial listening has been positive. No problem with the 54db gain of my Phono stage. This weekend I will be running it in for 2 days straight. Its much more forgiving than the 2m Black, and I think I'm probably already an MC convert. Will update next week.
walpurgis
09-12-2020, 09:11
That's good. I didn't think you'd have any bother.
If you get on with it long term, then you might try one of these ...
https://www.denonaluminumbody.com
I have one and it certainly elevates performance, and is re-usable (unlike many re-bodying mods).
I think there's also a slightly cheaper version now offered on eBay from Estonia, but I've not tried that one.
If you get on with it long term, then you might try one of these ...
https://www.denonaluminumbody.com
I have one and it certainly elevates performance, and is re-usable (unlike many re-bodying mods).
I think there's also a slightly cheaper version now offered on eBay from Estonia, but I've not tried that one.I have the Estonian one and from what I can see/hear it's identical, but cheaper.
I have the Estonian one and from what I can see/hear it's identical, but cheaper.
Is it a nice snug fit? ... if that's not too personal a question :D
Is it a nice snug fit? ... if that's not too personal a question :DFairly snug, not tight enough to make it difficult to put on or take off, but tight enough to grip well.
KAWASAKI ADDICT
10-12-2020, 03:25
Sounds interesting. I'm looking forward to ridding it of a bit of brightness, which I guess is just down to it being new. After the weekend it should be fine, fingers crossed!!!
KAWASAKI ADDICT
13-12-2020, 13:35
After 20 hrs +, I'm very pleased with the 103r. It's more engaging than my 2m Black, with much better midrange than my AT440. Onto the wood body mod :- apart from the 5000% + profit to the guy that knocks them out, what do they bring to the party? Wood is not as dense as plastic, therefore more susceptible to resonance.
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