Dynavector DV KARAT 17DX MC cartridge

The KARAT series, which has been manufactured for over 40 years now, is still a reference in the eyes (and ears!) of plenty of music lovers worldwide to this day. It was the first cartridge to use the “dispersion” principle and a small cantilever. The DX version is the latest evolution of this legendary cartridge.

DYNAVECTOR DV KARAT 17DX: BODY

In appearance, there are few differences with the previous models. There is the “gold” body distinguishing it from the manufacturer’s other models. But the rationale for this new Dynavector DV KARAT 17DX MC cartridge was to drastically enhance this emblematic model.

DYNAVECTOR DV KARAT 17DX: GENERATOR

The generator now uses samarium-cobalt magnets for lower magnetic resistance. There’s also a proprietary winding technique optimising magnetic flux. Enhancing field poles and windings manufacture allowed to increase overall performance compared to the previous model.

After exhaustive listening and technical research, the decision was made to incorporate a body machined from solid brass body. This modification made its effective mass go from less than 6 g to more than 11 g (screws included).

DYNAVECTOR DV KARAT 17DX: STYLUS

Like usual, the Dynavector DV KARAT 17DX MC cartridge stands out from the other MC cartridges for its 1.7 mm ultra short diamond cantilever. Its rigidity provides it with an incredible bandwidth (20 - 30,000 Hz).

The Dynavector DV KARAT 17DX MC cartridge showed a fully flat response from 100 Hz to 30 kHz (± 0.5 dB). This cantilever is associated with a Micro Ridge stylus. The set is provided with a 15 mm/N compliance which, associated to the effective mass, allows the Dynavector DV KARAT 17DX MC cartridge to be paired with most tonearms having low or average effective mass.

DYNAVECTOR DV KARAT 17DX: LISTENING

This cartridge is still revolutionary to this day through its design and production. Of course, reproduction lives up to the technical means used.

The sound is very balanced and neutral. However, we notice very fast transients and a sharp high end of the spectrum. Of course, no aggressiveness and no excessive hardness are felt, but the Dynavector DV KARAT 17DX MC cartridge is more light or “bright” than a Hana ML or a Gold Note Machiavelli for example.

The clarity in upper mid-range provides plenty of precision to the reproduction. As the measurements indicate, its frequency response seems very neutral, no register is highlighted or hidden. The sound stage isn’t as precise as its big sister the Dynavector DV XX-2, but it’s very realistic.

The tempo is perfectly reproduced, providing lots of energy to the track. There’s also a very tense and expressive bass. The substance of the instruments seems both more refined and full-bodied than on the Dynavector DV 20X2 (Discover the Dynavector DV XX-2 cartridge).
It’s a very versatile cartridge in terms of musical choices, as well as tonearm and turntable combinations. Some music lovers have been swearing by it for several dozens of years, and that’s understandable.

The Dynavector DV KARAT 17DX MC cartridge will bring happiness to listeners searching for clear and articulated reproduction without hardness in the high-frequency range.

Would recommend.