Zebra/Wood
Zebra / Wood S
The ZEBRA name encompasses three cartridge models that differ in their output levels.
This is the well-known WOOD cartridge with a modified body and needle cut. Previously, a type of wood called Bruyere was used for the body; now it has been replaced by ZEBRA WOOD. Its use improves resolution in the midrange and high-frequency ranges. The lowest end of the frequency response is also more pronounced. Similar to the REFERENCE S, the coil that generates the output signal is constructed using the “cross coil” technology developed by BENZ MICRO. Like the rest of the cartridges manufactured by BENZ MICRO, the ZEBRA series features a moving-coil design.
The use of solutions proven in top-of-the-line tonearm models has resulted in a product that, despite its moderate price, can be counted among the high-end elite with a clear conscience. The dynamic compliance of the moving system allows it to work with a very wide range of tonearms, particularly those with medium and high effective mass. The stylus support, made from a boron rod with a diameter of just 0.28 mm, ensures excellent reproduction of even the finest details on the record, without introducing unwanted resonance. These features have largely contributed to the popularity of the WOOD S series among audiophiles who use multiple cartridge/tonearm combinations simultaneously, where the compatibility of individual components is a key factor.The ZEBRA series is the successor to the WOOD series. Compared to the previous series, the cartridges feature a revised stylus groove (Micro Ridge) and an improved cartridge with an upgraded suspension system.
The ZEBRA L model is designed for use with MC preamplifiers. The ZEBRA M cartridge can be used with a wider range of equipment, as its output voltage is set at 0.8 mV, allowing it to work with both sensitive MC preamplifiers and high-quality MM preamplifiers. The ZEBRA H cartridge is designed for use in systems equipped with MM preamplifiers (which allow for lower gain settings).
Technical specifications:
| Parameter | ZEBRA L | ZEBRA M | ZEBRA H |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Level | 0.4 mV | 0.8 mV | 2.5 mV |
| Bracket / drill rod | 0.28 mm | 0.28 mm | 0.28 mm |
| Needle | Micro Ridge | Micro Ridge | Micro Ridge |
| Coil | Cross | Cross | Cross |
| Needle Dimensions | 3 × 60 µm | 3 × 60 µm | 3 × 60 µm |
| Internal impedance | 12 Ω | 24 Ω | 90 Ω |
| Load Capacity | >100 Ω | >400 Ω | >1000 Ω |
| Weight | 9 g | 9 g | 9 g |
| Compilation | 15 µm/mN | 15 µm/mN | 15 µm/mN |
| Pressure force | 1.6 – 1.9 g | 1.6 – 1.9 g | 1.6 – 1.9 g |
| Channel Balancing | 1 dB | 1 dB | 1 dB |
| Channel Separation / 1 kHz | >35 dB | >35 dB | >35 dB |
Due to the manufacturing process, the electrical parameters listed above are average values.