Audio T Verdict
The Dynavector KARAT 17DX is unusual even by moving-coil cartridge standards. Its defining feature is not simply the fact that the cantilever is made from diamond, but that the entire solid-diamond cantilever is only 1.7mm long.
That extremely short construction is central to Dynavector's long-running Karat philosophy. A conventional cartridge cantilever is typically considerably longer, and the cantilever, stylus and moving generator can develop mechanical resonance closer to the audible frequency range. By dramatically shortening and stiffening the assembly, Dynavector moves that resonance much further away from the frequencies recorded on a normal LP.
The diamond cantilever carries a Micro-Ridge stylus, giving the 17DX a very fine groove-contact profile. A solid-brass body provides the generator with a substantial mechanical platform, while Samarium-cobalt magnets, Flux Damper and Softened Magnetism technologies address the electrical side of the design.
Electrically, this is a conventional low-output MC cartridge. Output is just 0.3mV, internal impedance is 32 ohms and Dynavector recommends loading above 100 ohms. It therefore needs a proper low-output MC phono stage, head amplifier or appropriately matched step-up transformer.
The 11g body is also worth taking into account. Many tonearms will accommodate it comfortably, but counterweight range, effective mass and cartridge alignment should still be checked rather than assumed.
Tracking force is specified at a relatively narrow 1.8–2.0g, and the combination of a Micro-Ridge stylus and short solid-diamond cantilever makes accurate setup particularly important.
If the rest of your vinyl system is capable of supporting a cartridge at this level, the KARAT 17DX provides a genuinely unusual piece of Dynavector engineering rather than simply another variation on the conventional moving-coil formula.
Dynavector KARAT 17DX Moving Coil Cartridge
The KARAT 17DX is a low-output moving-coil cartridge built around Dynavector's exceptionally short solid-diamond cantilever and Micro-Ridge stylus.
Key features include:
- Low-output moving-coil generator
- 0.3mV output at 1kHz / 5cm/sec.
- 1.7mm solid-diamond cantilever
- Micro-Ridge stylus
- Solid-brass cartridge body
- Samarium-cobalt magnets
- Dynavector Flux Damper
- Softened Magnetism technology
- 20Hz–20kHz ±1dB frequency response
- 25dB channel separation at 1kHz
- 1.0dB channel balance at 1kHz
- 15mm/N compliance
- 1.8–2.0g tracking-force range
- 32-ohm internal impedance
- Recommended load above 100 ohms
- 11g cartridge weight
The Karat Concept
Dynavector's Karat cartridges have long been built around the idea that the cantilever should be exceptionally short and rigid.
The cantilever connects the stylus to the moving generator, so every groove movement must travel through it before becoming an electrical signal.
Its length, mass and rigidity therefore affect the mechanical behaviour of the cartridge.
1.7mm Solid-Diamond Cantilever
The KARAT 17DX uses a cantilever measuring only:
1.7mm long.
Rather than aluminium, boron or another conventional cantilever material, the 17DX uses solid diamond.
The extremely short construction provides a very rigid mechanical path between the Micro-Ridge stylus and moving-coil generator.
Why Such a Short Cantilever?
A conventional cartridge's stylus, cantilever and generator assembly can develop a mechanical resonant frequency relatively close to the upper end of the audible spectrum.
Dynavector's dispersion theory uses the extremely short Karat cantilever to move this resonant behaviour much further above the normal audio band.
The principle is not simply about reproducing ultrasonic frequencies. It is about reducing the influence of the cantilever assembly's resonance on frequencies and harmonics within the music.
Diamond as a Cantilever Material
Diamond combines extremely high rigidity with low dimensions, making it particularly interesting for a very short cantilever.
In the KARAT 17DX the diamond forms the structural link between the stylus tip and generator rather than being used only at the point where the cartridge touches the record.
Micro-Ridge Stylus
The end of the diamond cantilever carries a Micro-Ridge stylus.
This is a sophisticated line-contact profile with a very small contact radius in the direction of groove travel.
Why Use a Micro-Ridge Stylus?
The fine groove-contact profile is intended to trace small record modulations accurately.
Potential advantages include:
- Precise groove tracing
- Accurate high-frequency tracking
- Extended contact against the groove wall
- Good retrieval of fine recorded information
Accurate Alignment Matters
Fine-contact stylus profiles benefit from precise installation.
Important setup parameters include:
- Overhang
- Offset angle
- Tracking force
- Bias or anti-skate
- Tonearm height where adjustable
- Azimuth where adjustable
Do Not Guess Cartridge Alignment
Use the correct alignment geometry for your particular tonearm and turntable.
Poor alignment can increase distortion, compromise tracking and cause unnecessary stylus or record wear.
Low-Output Moving Coil
The KARAT 17DX generates:
0.3mV at 1kHz / 5cm/sec.
This is a genuine low-output MC signal and requires substantially more phono-stage gain than a typical moving-magnet or high-output moving-coil cartridge.
A Standard MM Phono Input Is Not Suitable on Its Own
The 0.3mV KARAT 17DX requires suitable low-output moving-coil amplification.
Use an appropriate MC phono stage, MC head amplifier or correctly matched step-up transformer.
32-Ohm Internal Impedance
Dynavector specifies an internal impedance of:
32 ohms.
Recommended load impedance is:
Greater than 100 ohms.
Choosing a Phono Stage
A suitable MC phono stage needs to provide both appropriate gain and loading.
Useful considerations include:
- Sufficient gain for a 0.3mV cartridge
- Loading above 100 ohms
- Low input noise
- Accurate RIAA equalisation
- Good overload margin
- Appropriate adjustment options
Gain and Loading Are Separate
Loading is the electrical impedance presented to the cartridge.
Gain determines how much the cartridge's tiny electrical signal is amplified.
A phono stage needs to get both right. Correct loading cannot compensate for insufficient gain.
Using a Step-Up Transformer
A suitable moving-coil step-up transformer can be used ahead of an appropriate MM phono stage.
Transformer matching should consider:
- The cartridge's 32-ohm internal impedance
- Transformer turns ratio
- The load of the following phono stage
- The overall gain required
Choosing the largest available transformer ratio is not automatically the best solution.
Solid-Brass Body
Dynavector machines the KARAT 17DX body from solid brass.
The substantial body provides a rigid mounting structure for the cartridge generator and the unusually short cantilever assembly.
Why Cartridge Rigidity Matters
The stylus is measuring movements within a record groove on a microscopic scale.
Any unwanted movement between the cartridge generator, body and tonearm works against that process.
A rigid body and secure mounting therefore provide the generator with a stable mechanical reference.
Samarium-Cobalt Magnets
The 17DX uses Samarium-cobalt magnets within its moving-coil generator.
Dynavector selected the magnetic architecture to provide the field required by the cartridge while maintaining controlled behaviour around the moving coils.
Flux Damper
Dynavector's Flux Damper forms part of the magnetic circuit.
Its purpose is to suppress unwanted changes in magnetic flux as the moving generator responds to groove modulation.
Softened Magnetism
Softened Magnetism is another established Dynavector generator technology.
The design focuses on controlling the behaviour of the magnetic circuit rather than simply using maximum possible magnetic strength.
20Hz to 20kHz Frequency Response
Dynavector specifies:
20Hz–20kHz ±1dB.
Dynavector's own measured response for the 17DX also demonstrates exceptionally flat behaviour extending beyond the conventional audio band.
25dB Channel Separation
Channel separation is specified at:
25dB at 1kHz.
This describes how effectively the cartridge keeps the left and right information encoded on the two groove walls electrically separate.
1.0dB Channel Balance
Dynavector specifies channel balance of:
1.0dB at 1kHz.
15mm/N Compliance
Compliance is specified at:
15mm/N.
Compliance describes the flexibility of the cartridge suspension.
It should be considered alongside tonearm effective mass when evaluating mechanical compatibility.
11g Cartridge Weight
The current KARAT 17DX weighs:
11g.
This is substantial enough that tonearm counterweight capacity should be confirmed before fitting.
Check Tonearm Compatibility Before Ordering
Make sure your tonearm can balance an 11g cartridge while still allowing the correct tracking force to be set.
Effective mass, headshell weight, counterweight range, physical clearance and cartridge alignment all need to be considered.
1.8–2.0g Tracking Force
Dynavector specifies a tracking-force range of:
1.8–2.0g.
The relatively narrow range makes an accurate stylus-force gauge particularly useful during installation.
Do Not Deliberately Track Too Lightly
Tracking below Dynavector's recommended range does not automatically reduce record wear.
Insufficient tracking force can allow the Micro-Ridge stylus to mistrack and lose secure contact with the groove.
Bias or Anti-Skate
Once tracking force has been set accurately, adjust the tonearm's bias or anti-skate according to the tonearm manufacturer's instructions.
The required method varies between different arm designs.
Tonearm Height
If the tonearm provides vertical-height adjustment, this can form part of final cartridge setup.
Follow the tonearm and turntable manufacturer's setup procedure rather than adjusting arm height randomly.
Stylus and Diamond Cantilever Care
The Micro-Ridge stylus and 1.7mm diamond cantilever are precision components.
Good practice includes:
- Keep records clean
- Keep the stylus free from accumulated debris
- Use an appropriate stylus-cleaning method
- Lower the stylus gently using the cueing mechanism
- Avoid touching the cantilever
- Protect the cartridge whenever working around the tonearm
Never Push the Cantilever Sideways
The diamond itself may be exceptionally rigid, but the complete cantilever, suspension and generator assembly remains delicate.
Do not scrub the stylus sideways or apply pressure towards the cartridge body during cleaning.
No User-Replaceable Stylus
The KARAT 17DX is a moving-coil cartridge and does not use a removable stylus module of the kind commonly found on many moving-magnet cartridges.
Do not attempt to pull the stylus or cantilever assembly from the body.
Dynavector Service and Exchange
When the cartridge eventually requires attention due to stylus wear or accidental damage, servicing should be arranged through an authorised Dynavector dealer or distributor.
Speak to Audio T and we can advise on the appropriate service or exchange route.
A Phono Stage Is Essential
Do Not Connect the KARAT 17DX Directly to AUX or CD
A normal line-level input does not provide the gain or RIAA equalisation required by a phono cartridge.
The KARAT 17DX must pass through a suitable low-output MC phono stage or correctly configured step-up arrangement first.
Professional Installation Recommended
With an advanced line-contact stylus and extremely short diamond cantilever, accurate fitting is worthwhile.
Installation may involve:
- Cartridge mounting
- Overhang adjustment
- Offset-angle alignment
- Tracking-force adjustment
- Bias or anti-skate setup
- Tonearm-height adjustment where available
- Azimuth adjustment where available
- Phono-stage gain selection
- Phono-stage loading
KARAT 17DX or DV 20X2A?
DV 20X2A
- High or low output versions
- 0.3mV low-output option
- Hard-aluminium pipe cantilever
- Micro-Ridge stylus
- 12mm/N compliance
- 9.2g weight
- Special Annealing magnetic circuit
KARAT 17DX
- Low output only
- 0.3mV output
- 1.7mm solid-diamond cantilever
- Micro-Ridge stylus
- 15mm/N compliance
- 11g weight
- Solid-brass body
Compare the Dynavector DV 20X2A at Audio T.
Who Is the Dynavector KARAT 17DX For?
Well Suited To
- High-quality turntable systems
- Suitable tonearms with accurate cartridge adjustment
- Dedicated low-output MC phono stages
- Appropriately matched step-up transformer systems
- Customers wanting a solid-diamond cantilever
- Customers wanting a Micro-Ridge stylus
- Carefully set-up analogue systems
- Existing Dynavector owners moving up the range
Check Before Buying
- 0.3mV low output
- Requires suitable MC gain
- 32-ohm internal impedance
- Load above 100 ohms
- 11g cartridge weight
- 15mm/N compliance
- 1.8–2.0g tracking force
- Counterweight range must be suitable
- Micro-Ridge stylus requires accurate alignment
- No user-replaceable stylus
Key Features
- Dynavector KARAT 17DX
- Low-output moving-coil cartridge
- 0.3mV output
- 1.7mm cantilever
- Solid-diamond cantilever
- Micro-Ridge stylus
- Solid-brass body
- Samarium-cobalt magnets
- Flux Damper
- Softened Magnetism
- 20Hz–20kHz ±1dB
- 25dB channel separation
- 1.0dB channel balance
- 15mm/N compliance
- 1.8–2.0g tracking force
- 32-ohm internal impedance
- Recommended load above 100 ohms
- 11g cartridge weight
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Dynavector KARAT 17DX a moving-coil cartridge?
Yes. It is a low-output moving-coil cartridge.
What is the cartridge output?
0.3mV at 1kHz / 5cm/sec.
Can I use it with a normal MM phono stage?
Not directly. The 17DX requires suitable low-output MC amplification or a correctly matched step-up transformer.
What is the internal impedance?
32 ohms.
What phono-stage load does Dynavector recommend?
Greater than 100 ohms.
What is unusual about the cantilever?
It is made from solid diamond and is only 1.7mm long.
Why is the cantilever so short?
The extremely short, rigid cantilever is central to Dynavector's Karat dispersion theory and is designed to move the mechanical resonance of the pickup assembly well above the normal audio band.
What stylus does the 17DX use?
A Micro-Ridge diamond stylus.
Does a Micro-Ridge stylus need accurate alignment?
Yes. Accurate overhang, offset angle and tracking-force setup are particularly worthwhile with a fine-contact stylus.
What is the cartridge body made from?
Solid brass.
What type of magnets are used?
Samarium-cobalt magnets.
What is Flux Damper?
It is part of Dynavector's magnetic-circuit design and is intended to control unwanted changes in magnetic flux within the cartridge generator.
What is the frequency response?
20Hz to 20kHz ±1dB.
What is the channel separation?
25dB at 1kHz.
What is the channel balance?
1.0dB at 1kHz.
What is the compliance?
15mm/N.
What tracking force should I use?
Dynavector specifies 1.8–2.0g.
How much does the cartridge weigh?
11g.
Will the KARAT 17DX fit every tonearm?
No. Check tonearm effective mass, cartridge-weight capacity, counterweight range, physical clearance and available alignment adjustment before fitting.
Can I use a step-up transformer?
Yes, provided it is correctly matched to the cartridge's 32-ohm impedance and the phono stage following it.
Can I replace the stylus myself?
No. The KARAT 17DX does not have a user-replaceable stylus assembly.
Can Audio T fit and align the cartridge?
Yes. Contact your local Audio T store to discuss tonearm compatibility, cartridge installation, tracking force and phono-stage matching.
Related Dynavector Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy From Audio T?
- Turntable and cartridge matching
- Tonearm compatibility checks
- Low-output MC phono-stage matching
- Cartridge fitting and alignment
- Tracking-force setup
- Bias and anti-skate adjustment
- Tonearm-height and azimuth guidance
- MC gain and loading advice
- Step-up transformer matching
- Stylus-care guidance
- Dynavector service and exchange advice
- Part-exchange options
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to discuss whether the Dynavector KARAT 17DX is the right match for your turntable, tonearm and phono stage.