ZYX · Ultimate
Ultimate DIAMOND
The flagship moving coil cartridge with a natural diamond cantilever.
At the summit of the ZYX Ultimate line, the DIAMOND represents the manufacturer's uncompromising vision for analogue reproduction. By employing a rigid square-profile natural diamond cantilever, the cartridge achieves a level of transient speed and tracking precision that standard materials simply cannot match, effectively eliminating mechanical reflection and resonance.
The core of the DIAMOND is the proprietary VX generator system, which utilizes a flat iron yoke and pole piece arrangement to maintain a uniform magnetic field. This design actively nulls eddy currents and magnetic resistance, allowing the generator to translate groove information into an electrical signal with zero time delay across the entire frequency spectrum.
Sonically, the DIAMOND is characterised by its transparency, exceptional soundstage depth, and effortless musicality. It avoids the forced analytical quality of many high-end transducers, instead offering a nuanced, focused presentation that balances micro-detail with a deep, natural tone. It is a tool for the dedicated listener who requires absolute fidelity to the original recording.
Key Features
01
Square natural diamond cantilever
Provides the highest possible rigidity and lowest mass for instantaneous transmission of mechanical vibrations.
02
VX generator system
A sophisticated magnetic circuit that eliminates eddy currents to ensure constant magnetic flux density during signal generation.
03
Lapis Lazuli balancing weight
A precisely positioned mineral sphere that centres the cartridge gravity and absorbs internal vibrations.
04
Micro-Ridge stylus
A high-performance diamond tip with a 3μm contact radius, offering extended 2000-hour longevity and superior groove tracking.
05
Cryogenic treatment
The entire generator assembly is treated at -196 degrees Celsius to refine the internal metal crystal structure.
Chapter 01
Engineering Precision
The DIAMOND is built around the pursuit of a pure time-domain response. Every element, from the gold-plated 18k output terminals to the composite carbon terminal board, is selected to minimise interference. By isolating the vibration system from external disturbances and internal eddy currents, ZYX ensures the signal path remains as clean and silent as possible.
Chapter 02
The Role of Materials
Central to the design is the use of a 1-gram Lapis Lazuli ball, which functions as both a balancing weight and a vibration sink. This mineral component, combined with a non-metallic composite body, prevents the resonance and magnetic fluctuations typically found in metallic-cased designs. It is this marriage of exotic materials and advanced metallurgy that gives the cartridge its stable, refined signature.
Chapter 03
Listening Notes
This cartridge is defined by what it leaves out rather than what it adds. It does not exaggerate the attack of transients or artificially brighten the high frequencies; instead, it presents music with a sense of calm authority. Listeners will find that it excels at portraying the space between instruments, creating a holographic soundstage that remains stable even during the most demanding orchestral swells.