Review: Denon DL 103R Cartridge

Category: Analog

I recently acquired the Denon DL 103R cartridge from a shop on Ebay to replace the Sumiko Blue Point cartridge that I have used for most of the last 10 years or so.

The DL103R was the lst part of a larger scale system upgrade including new interconnects and the addition of a used DBX 3BX range expander that I use to enhance the dynamics primarily of analog sources on my system (Carver tuner and a Linn Axis turntable with Linn Basik tonearm).

I use DNM reson interconnects to connect the DBX unit to the signal processing jacks on a Carver c-9 pre-amplifier. The c-9 is connected via the tube-emulation outputs to a Carver mt4.0t power amp using Harmonic Technology Truthlink interconnects.

Dynaudio Countour 1.3 MkII monitors are used as the main speakers on the system. The solid state outputs from the c-9 connect to an old but classic NAD receiver power amp section which can be used to drive a combination of 2 other speaker pairs connected throughout the house via in-wall wiring. The other speakers are a pair of Ohm Walsh 2s and a custom-modified pair of Ohm Ls. This allows me to audition music on three separate pairs or speakers in three separate rooms from my main system as desired.

For this review, I can compare the sound of the DL 103R to the Sumiko Blue point cartridge using the primary Carver mt4.0t power amp and Dynaudio Contours with the DBX unit bypassed. All listening was done with the Carver c-9 sonic holography circuit engaged. The Sumiko Blue Point and Denon DL 103r are both critically acclaimed moving coil cartridges available for less $300 that are generally compared to much more expensive cartridges.

The Denon is a low output cartridge which requires more gain correspondingly in the phono pre-amp section than the Sumiko. The low compliance (stiffer stylus) Denon DL 103R also is said to work better in higher mass tonearms. The Linn Basik seems to fit this requirement well.

Both cartridges seem to have a similar tonal balance, with good clarity and crisp highs compared to most any moving magnet cartridge I've tried. If your pre-amp can accomodate a moving coil cartridge, I think either cartridge is a better choice. However, this is where the similarities end between the Sumiko Blue Point and the Denon DL 103R. I've heard the Blue Point described as somewhat "analytical" sounding, which I would say is an accurate description. The presenation overall was not as smooth and absorbing as the Denon.

On the other hand, I believe the DL103R lived up to the highest praise I've seen accorded it. My vinyl records never sounded better. The sound stage, bass, dynamics, detail and the entire presentation overall was extrodinary. I found myself drawn into the music like never before. This was some of the best sonic rendering I've ever heard...period. Enough said.

If you are in the market for a good phono cartridge and your system can accomodate the DL 103R, get one now while still available. It is an exceptional device. I've heard rumors it has been discontinued but still appears to be available via audio cubes web site + some ebay-based providers.

Associated gear
Linn Axis Turntable
Carver C-9 pre-amp
Carver mt4.0t power amp
DNM Reson and Harmonic Technology Truthlink interconnects
Dynaudio Contour 1.3 Mk II speakers

Similar products
Sumiko Blue Point Phono Cartridge