Japanese cartridge builder Dynavector has launched a new MC cartridge called XX-2A. The treatment of the iron used in the XX-2A is special. The iron is not only extremely pure but has also undergone a special treatment called “magnetic annealing”. The XX-2A is expected to be available for delivery in August.
Dynavector Cartridge History
Dynavector has focused on high-end cartridges since its founding in 1978, and has since introduced a wide range of cartridges to the world. When developing elements, Dynavector uses technical knowledge from the academic world. This tradition was passed on by founder Dr. Noboru Tominari (1927–2002) to successive generations.
From the start, the focus has been on the development of vibration absorbing technology, high-output coils with turns of very thin wire, diamond cantilever needles and improving magnetic circuits since the 1990s. The result of this is the stabilization of magnetic flux and softened magentism or reduction in the magnetic flux.
MC element with completely redesigned Special Annealing Circuit
One of the secrets of a fantastic sounding MC cartridge (MC = Moving Coil) is a perfectly functioning vibration system. The cantilever, the coil, insulation and a rigid body are all parts that are important for the proper functioning of an element. The magnetic circuit is a part that is often overlooked. What was that again? The output signal of an element is generated by movement in the magnetic circuit. An electrical signal is generated when the coil moves within the magnetic field, which is in turn generated by the magnet.
Good signal output can only be obtained if the magnetic field has high density and stability. For the magnetic circuit, Dynavector uses pure iron, which has a high permeability to magnetism, which then creates a very strong magnetic field, perfect for interference-free transmission of the signal. However, when the iron has to be converted into small parts, the structure of iron is affected at the atomic level due to plasticity. This causes a decrease in magnetic permeability and therefore a decrease in proper functioning.
It is possible to restore this by an annealing process. The process to restore the magnetic permeability to the old level is called ‘magnetic annealing’, a process of reheating and cooling the iron parts in order to restore the original properties. Although this process functions well to return the properties to their original levels, it does not ensure perfect recovery at the molecular level. In addition, success is highly dependent on the composition, dimensions and shape of the part in question. That is why Dynavector looked for the perfect conditions to make the annealing process for the new XX-2A as perfect as possible. The focus was on optimizing the temperature, heating time and the speed of heating and cooling of the material. This has resulted in an element that takes full advantage of the unique magnetic properties and performance of pure iron.
This new approach has resulted in a significant leap forward in sound quality, with superb resolution without distortion, smooth, wide expression and unprecedented spatiality in the soundstage.
Price and delivery information
The Dynavector XX-2A will be available for delivery in August. The recommended retail price is just under 2,300 euros.
