DENON DL-103 SA

Second-hand. In excellent conditions. Free from visible signs of wear. Comes with original packaging.

The Denon DL-103SA represents the pinnacle of evolution for a true high-fidelity legend: the renowned DL-103 phono cartridge.

To celebrate the milestone of 500,000 units sold, Denon introduced the DL-103SA—a special edition limited to just 2,000 individually numbered units, with only 500 reserved for the European market. This commemorative version not only revisits the original design with obsessive attention to both technical and aesthetic details but also enhances its presentation with a premium walnut wood box, engraved with the cartridge’s serial number.

The DL-103SA retains the classic moving coil configuration, offering an output level of 0.25 mV and an internal impedance of 14 ohms. The coils are made from ultra-high purity 6N copper (99.9999%), and the terminal connectors are gold-plated to ensure the cleanest, most interference-free signal transmission.

One of the key innovations is the introduction of a new cantilever and a 6.5-micron stylus, engineered for improved groove tracking. Enclosing it all is a newly designed fiberglass body—an uncommon material chosen by Denon engineers for its superior acoustic properties and its ability to deliver even greater sonic accuracy. The total weight of the cartridge is 9.7 grams.

Those already familiar with the classic DL-103 will find all its virtues in the DL-103SA—but refined and elevated. The soundstage is more precisely defined, with each instrument clearly positioned and coherently presented, resulting in a highly immersive and engaging listening experience.

Bass frequencies are deep and rhythmically accurate, while mids and highs retain the signature smoothness of the original DL-103, now enhanced with greater clarity and spatial detail. The overall sonic signature is even more harmonious and refined, preserving the magic of the historic cartridge while adding subtle improvements across the entire frequency range.

The Denon DL-103SA is far more than just a phono cartridge—it’s a tribute to the legacy of high fidelity, a product to be listened to and collected. It embodies the perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and craftsmanship, ideal for those seeking a top-tier sonic experience and a rare piece of audio history.

Technical Specifications:

• Type: Moving Coil
• Output Voltage: 0.25 mV
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 45 kHz
• Channel Separation: 25 dB
• Channel Balance: 1 dB
• Compliance: 5 x 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne
• Recommended Load Impedance: 100 ohms
• Output Impedance: 14 ohms
• Recommended Tracking Force: 2.2 – 2.8 g
• Weight: 9.7 g
• Stylus Tip: Spherical 0.2 mm
• Coils: Made from 6N high-purity copper (99.9999%)
• Cantilever: Special aluminum