DL-103 Mk.II

About the DL-103 Mk.II

The Zu DL-103 Mk.II is a refined version of the classic Denon DL-103 moving coil phono cartridge, developed by Zu Audio in Ogden, Utah. It retains the original Denon motor and design from the 1960s but is enhanced with a machined aluminum alloy body (Alcoa 6061-T6) and a dual compound epoxy bonding to isolate the motor from vibrations. The cartridge is hand-selected and graded for channel balance and stereophony performance, with grades ranging from standard (≤2.5% tolerance) to Grade 2 PRIME (≤0.1%). It features a semi-exposed stylus and cantilever requiring careful handling, a spherical stylus tip, and a recommended tracking force of 2.5 grams. The nominal output voltage is 0.3mV with an internal impedance of about 45 ohms per channel. It is designed for use with step-up transformers or MC phono preamps with appropriate loading. The cartridge is sold direct by Zu Audio and is known for its full bandwidth dynamic slam, delicacy, and incisiveness without sounding soulless or overly modern. The body is anodized to reduce mechanical impedance mismatches and includes a stylus guard for protection. Zu Audio offers a satisfaction guarantee and warranty on the product.