tonearm match ZYX Universe Moerch and Triplanar


I decided to take a much bigger analog plunge

I'm working with Mehran on a tonearm for a Zyx Universe
between the Moerch DP6 and Triplanar VII. Mehran is really great - a true audiophile gentleman.

the precise dial in setup of the triplanar interested me (particularly because I am a relative neophyte at this) but it's a bit more expense.

I currently have a Nottingham Spacedeck which I'll eventually upgrade from but the Moerch drops directly into the Spacedeck mount and others here tell me the Notts match well with the Moerch.

Can anyone commment on the synergy of these two with the Universe? later flexibility with other tables? any other helpful jewels of knowledge would be greatly appreciated (I don't want to limit myself like with the Spacedeck).

My listening preferences lean more toward correct tonal balance and engaging dynamics over ultra hi resolution. I listen to a lot of jazz, acoustic and rock music.

thanks

Tom
128x128audiotomb

Showing 2 responses by salectric

I have never used a ZYX, so I can't respond directly to your question. I did recently replace my DP-6 with 12" Red wand with a Triplanar VII.2 so I do have some idea of the differences between the two arms. The Triplanar has greater resolution and better dynamic contrasts. It is also much easier to adjust to get the best sound out of any cartridge. However, the Moerch also sounds very, very good. If you don't feel the need to adjust VTA too often, the Moerch can be very satisfying. Of course, the Moerch also has the flexibility of changing arm mass by changing arm wands.

Dave
Following up on Thom's comment, I recently changed from the DP-6 to the Triplanar and I certainly don't have buyer's remorse. As I noted earlier in this thread, the Triplanar is a better sounding arm, but that doesn't change the fact that the Moerch sounds very good too.

Don't forget the role that a phono cable plays in determining the "sound" of a tonearm. The Moerch (like the Graham, SME and lots of other arms) lets you alter the sound by installing different cables. I tried 6 different cables with my Moerch, and they all had significant differences. If I described the sound of the Moerch with a Hovland cable, it would be quite different from its sound with a VanDeHul cable. So which is the sound of the arm alone? What is the sound of one hand clapping?

The Triplanar (and Schroeder and Rega) use a single length of wire from cartridge to RCA plugs, so the user can't change the sound of the arm by swapping cables. There are obviously pros and cons, but on balance I prefer the Triplanar's dedicated cable approach.

Dave