Benz-Micro Moving Coil Cartridges
Backbeat has selected the Zebra L and Ruby Z to represent the Benz Micro line. They share much of their mechanical architecture: zebra-wood body, boron cantilever, and polished line-contact stylus while showcasing the abilities of the iron cross and ruby signal generators.
The full Benz range is available, including factory rebuilt models when we can get them. Call and let us know what you’re looking for.
Benz Micro Zebra
The Zebra is built around Benz Micro’s iron-cross generator. The iron former becomes part of the magnetic circuit, helping the generator produce greater output.
The Benz Micro Zebra is renowned for its rich, organic sound and exceptional musicality. It delivers a warm tonal balance with a lush midrange, gentle highs, and natural bass that make vocals and acoustic instruments come alive. Its forgiving yet detailed presentation complements a wide range of musical genres.
The Zebra is available in low, medium, and high-output to suit just about any setup.
Price $2,600
Benz Micro Ruby Z
Featuring coils wound on a ruby former, the Ruby Z avoids the eddy currents associated with an iron former to deliver exquisite resolution with the warmth and tonal richness Benz is known for. The Ruby Z delivers exceptional detail, dynamics, and control, yet never strays into analytical territory. Its presentation is fluid and emotionally expressive, with a deep, dimensional soundstage and a midrange that’s both vivid and natural. Ideal for listeners who demand nuance and coherence without sacrificing musicality, the Ruby Z is a standout choice for listeners seeking lifelike texture and engagement.
Available in low and high output versions.
Price: $4,800
Specifications
| Zebra | Ruby Z | |
|---|---|---|
| Generator: | Pure iron cross | Square ruby jewel plate |
| Output: | 0.4mV (L) / 0.8mV (M) / 2.5mV (H) | 0.34mV (ZL) / 0.7mV (ZH) |
| Internal impedance: | 12Ω (L) / 24Ω (M) / 95Ω (H) | 38Ω |
| Recommended load: | 100Ω–47kΩ (L/M) / 1kΩ–47kΩ (H) | 500Ω–47kΩ |
| Frequency response: | 20Hz–20kHz ±1dB | 10Hz–50kHz ±1dB |
| Tracking force: | 1.7–2.0g | 1.8–2.2g |
| Compliance: | 15µm/mN | 15µm/mN |
| Stylus: | 3 × 60µm line contact | 3 × 60µm line contact |
| Cantilever: | 0.28mm solid boron | 0.28mm solid boron |
| Weight: | 9.6g | 10.7g |