|
Lyra Helikon Cartridge
Low-mass, micro line-contact diamond ~ While there are several types of stylus profiles, all Lyra cartridges use Ogura PA line-contact styli, because it is our conviction that these provide the best tracking and detail resolution at all frequencies. If set up properly, such styli also cause less groove wear.
The other aspect of the cartridge stylus that matters is the size of the total stylus shank, not just the part that tracks the LP groove. This ends up affecting tip mass, and consequently, the frequency response and tracking capabilities of the cartridge. The higher the frequency and the greater the stylus tip acceleration forces involved (which are a direct result of the LP cutting velocity and the physical condition of the groove), the more important it is to have small stylus and low tip mass.
The design principles behind the Lyra Helikon
To strive for the most rigid mounting of the cantilever system achievable ...
To optimize the movement of the stylus and coils relative to the LP grooves and the cartridge's magnetic system.
To allow depleted vibrational energy to escape completely into the tonearm instead of reflecting back into the coils and generating inharmonic "echo" distortions.
To use a symmetrical, linear, stable magnetic system ...
To create an invariable, linear magnetic field that the coils can rely on as a solid reference for signal generation.
To allow the cantilever and coils equal freedom of movement in all angles pertaining to groove tracking.
An overall performance goal for the Lyra Helikon was to create a more useable output level and a higher level of energy than the model it replaced (the Lyra Clavis DC) while maintaining the accurate reproduction of atmosphere, musical timbre and detail that has become the hallmark of all Lyra phono cartridges.
Features and Specifications of Lyra Helikon
Lyra Philosophy
Lyra Helikon Instruction Manual PDF
This is a great cartridge for jazz, brass and percussion. And it is also no slouch at orchestral. I used it with both my Wright tube phono stage and the Camelot Technology Lancelot Pro, and while sounding great with both, it mated better with the tubes, each ameliorating the others weaknesses and adding to the strengths. Did I say weaknesses? This is one of the most neutral cartridges I’ve had, and a true value at the price.
Audiogone Review of Lyra Helikon
The best recordings sound LIVE. There is an immediacy, a palpable presence with this cartridge, that snaps me to attention and makes me catch my breath.
| 
