ZYX Live18 Head-Shell

Lightweight, Highly Rigid, and Non-Resonant Structure

Each LIVE18 is precisely machined from a solid block of aluminum, maintaining a consistent and stable molecular structure. Only the necessary areas are reinforced, achieving high rigidity while keeping the weight low. Additionally, the shape of the shell is deliberately varied to prevent the formation of standing waves.

18 Circuits to Eliminate Longitudinal Vibrations
Vibrations from a phono cartridge cause the headshell to oscillate, producing longitudinal waves. These vibrations can induce resonances within the headshell, which are then reflected back into the cartridge, negatively affecting sound quality. Moreover, vibrations that travel into the tonearm are reflected at the arm’s end and return to the cartridge, compounding the issue.

Traditionally, designers attempted to address this problem by changing the material or thickness of the headshell. However, this only altered the speed of wave transmission and failed to eliminate longitudinal vibrations effectively.

The LIVE18 is the first design in the world to incorporate 18 precisely arranged mechanical short circuits that dissipate longitudinal vibrations. Figures 1–3 illustrate circuits handling horizontal vibrations, while Figures 4–18 show the vertical circuits, aligned with the direction of vibration from the cartridge. These short circuits dramatically enhance the sonic performance of the phono cartridge, resulting in a sound that is clear, natural, and dynamic across a wide frequency range.

Non-Resonant Finger
The finger is tapered in both vertical and horizontal directions to suppress the formation of standing waves.

Optimized Weight
With a self-weight of 12 grams, the LIVE18 is ideally balanced to match a wide range of cartridges and tonearms.

High-Purity Lead Wires
Gold-plated terminal tips paired with high-purity, oxygen-free, high-conductivity copper wire ensure full and accurate signal transmission from the cartridge.

Double Stopper Pins
Vertically arranged twin stopper pins provide a secure, stable connection between the headshell and the tonearm.

Two Body Colors
The semi-matte alumite-finished body is available in silver (LIVE18-S) or black (LIVE18-B), with no difference in sonic performance.