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Offered is „UNIverse Premium X /SB2 NP 15400 Dollar“ by ZYX as second-hand device from the category „Pick-up MC“ on audio-markt.de - the online market place for high-end. The advert with the number 552303174 ends on 19.10.2026 at 16:55 o'clock.
ZYX’s top-tier moving-coil designs have a strong reputation for speed, refinement, and a very open, finely etched presentation. At €4,389, this sits comfortably below the €5,689 median and even under the €5,741 midpoint between the 25th and 75th percentiles, so it reads as a solid buy rather than a stretch.
What makes this appealing is the chance to get a premium cartridge at a price that leaves room for a proper setup and, if needed, a future retip. The “good” condition grade is worth respecting on a cartridge, but if the stylus history is clear and the suspension still feels healthy, this looks like a worthwhile pickup for someone who wants high-end resolution without paying full-market money.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
ZYX Audio is a Japanese hi-fi manufacturer established in December 1986 by Hisayoshi Nakatsuka, who previously worked in cartridge development at Trio/Kenwood and later at Namiki before founding the company as an independent operation. The brand name reflects Nakatsuka's design philosophy, derived from three critical audio parameters: time (Z), amplitude (Y), and frequency (X). Based in Chiba, Japan, ZYX has built its reputation over nearly four decades through meticulous engineering and a clearly defined design methodology.
ZYX specializes exclusively in moving-coil phono cartridges, a narrow but demanding product category that demands precision manufacturing and deep technical expertise. The company produces a tiered lineup ranging from entry-level models like the Yatra/R-100 through mid-range offerings such as the Airy 3 and 4D-X, to flagship designs including the Universe, which commanded $8,000 at its peak. Nakatsuka's approach incorporates 15 vital design points covering coil winding techniques, acrylic body construction, and grounding methodology—details that distinguish ZYX cartridges in a crowded market.
ZYX occupies a firmly high-end position within the analog playback segment, respected among serious vinyl enthusiasts and audiophiles who prioritize sonic character and build quality over mass-market accessibility. The brand is recognized for a characteristic warm, natural, and detailed sound signature that appeals to discerning collectors. While ZYX remains a boutique manufacturer with limited distribution, its longevity, technical rigor, and consistent product evolution have established it as a credible alternative to better-known Japanese cartridge makers, particularly among analog purists seeking alternatives to mainstream options.
See all ZYX Audio listings on RADAR.
