Black Beauty Special-X vs Crimson
The Crimson's output is 0.7 mV against the Black Beauty Special-X's 0.5 mV, its tracking force 1.5 g against 1.3 g, and its channel separation 36 dB against 33 dB. Both share compliance (35 cu).
AI-generated product photo — not official manufacturer imagery.
Black Beauty Special-X
van den HulAnalogCartridgesStylus Replacements
Estimated price (community-sourced)
$5,594.49
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
About the Black Beauty Special-X
The van den Hul BLACK BEAUTY SPECIAL-X is a high-end, handbuilt moving coil phono cartridge, a resolution-improved version of the GRASSHOPPER IV GLA. It features a refined black PolyCarbonate body, improved magnetic layout, reduced cantilever length, special damping rubber suspension, and double layer Matched Crystal Gold coils on a cross-shaped armature for higher channel separation and reduced output from 0.65 mV to 0.50 mV per channel. Medium and high output versions are available on request. It delivers exceptional realism, precise instrument projection, authoritative bass, pure highs, and enhanced space between instruments. Body-headshell mount options include two or four screw holes, suitable for Graham arms. Custom builds are possible. Production time is about two weeks. It is discontinued, but repairs are available on request.
Specifications
Cartridge
Phono cartridge specifications
- Cartridge Type
- HOMC
- Output Voltage
- 0.5 mV
- Tracking Force
- 1.3 g
- Compliance
- 35 cu
- Channel Separation
- 33 dB
- Impedance
- 16Ω
Physical Dimensions
Size, weight, and appearance
- Weight
- 0.0085 kg (0 lbs)
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions