Lyra Dorian Cartridge

The Dorian is the new entry-level model from Lyra. Althoug it is very similar in fundamental design to the more costly Argo, several steps have been taken to make it possible to have a more cost-effective Lyra alternative that also takes into account that lower priced analog system also requires a bit more output from the phono cartridge in order to perform well as a system.

The Dorian is the first Lyra to use a Namiki cantilever/diamond system. The diamond stylus is a Namiki MicroRidge line-contact. Like all other Lyra phono cartridges, the Dorian also is wound with 6 nines purity ”Stress Free” copper wire. However it has been equipped with 3 layers for a total impedance of 9.5 ohms which brings the output up to a healthy 0.6 mV (measured at 5.0 cm/sec). At the same time the suspension tuning has been set to allow for a relatively high trackability. The aim is to create a very lively and exciting sound, while still keeping the reknown Lyra sonic neutrality and honesty.

The Dorian is the first Lyra to be industrially manufactured (by a Lyra subcontractor), and it is basically non-tuned. Although Lyra builder Yoshinori Mishima does not personally build or ”voice” the Dorian as he does with every other Lyra from the Argo through the Titan, he does personally adjust and check every Dorian cartridge before it is packed and shipped.

We have made sure the Dorian actually sounds and performs like a Lyra, despite the specific goals that makes this model unique among Lyras. We wanted it to be a great introduction to the Lyra range so it also invites to future upgrades to our more advanced models in coordination with other upgrades to the audiophile’s analog system. The Dorian has been designed for ease of setup. In other words, it will be easier for more audiophiles to extract a greater percentage of its performance potential.

The Dorian doesn't have any polepieces. The only components that create the magnetic field are two symmetrical disc magnets. Therefore, the magnetic field is also completely symmetrical. This results in more accurate conversion of mechanical vibrations into electrical signals; in other words, lower distortion. This also allows the coils and cantilever to move more freely, leading to improved low level resolution and better tracking abilities, particularly at low vertical tracking forces.

The Dorian's body has been machined from a single piece of aluminum alloy for superior rigidity, then hard-anodized.

The front magnet carrier of the Dorian is non-magnetic and non-conductive. The shape of the Dorian body has also been designed to minimize the presence of conductive materials in the vicinity of the magnetic gap and signal generator coils. This construction prevents the formation of variable eddy currents that would otherwise interfere with the primary magnetic field and distort the signal generation process.

Both the cantilever assembly and interior body structures of the Dorian have been designed so that the cantilever mounts directly to the cartridge body. Intermediate mounting methods such as polepieces or subcarriers have been completely eliminated. This direct mounting system minimizes the number of mechanical joints between the cantilever and tonearm, and maximizes mechanical energy transfer away from the stylus and generator area. The end result is far less reflected mechanical energy, and therefore significantly reduced levels of distortion.

Lyra-branded products are designed and manufactured by Lyra Co., Ltd. of Japan and include a line of high-end MC phono cartridges and other products related to phonograph record playback. Lyra has been developing and producing MC phono cartridges since 1985. All products are based on the designs & concepts of Jonathan Carr, and each Lyra cartridge model is developed by Yoshinori Mishima who is also involved in the assembly and tuning process of each and every sample.

The Absolute Sound Phono Cartridge of the Year Winner - 2006!

Stereophile Recommended Component, Class B
The "budget-priced" Dorian offers 0.6mV of output and a recommended tracking force of 1.8-2gm. MF: "The Dorian's transparency, transient speed, rhythmic solidity, resolution of low-level detail, and taut, well extended bottom end brought an overall balance and musical excitement that I've yet to hear from any cartridge competing at this price." (Vol.28 No.3)

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