Description
The Benz Micro Ruby Z is not only a living legend, but a coveted jewel. Because a true ruby forms the heart of the handmade cartridge, which is presented in its latest version with an exclusive zebrano wood body.
Indeed, the Ruby Z's windings are applied to the gemstone of the same name to give this pickup the ideal electrical properties. Musically, the Ruby Z is characterised by extraordinary ease in extremely quiet passages, as well as in loud dynamic leaps.
The Ruby Z is one of Albert Lukaschek's finest creations and, consequently, shares the technology of its siblings, the SLR Gullwing and LP-S. Thanks to the aluminium carrier used, the Benz Micro Ruby Z achieves a weight of just 10.7 grams, despite its solid zebrano wood body. As the lightest variant in its class, it harmonises with a wide variety of tonearms on the market. And if you look closely at the microscopically small world of wonders, you will even recognise the red glow of the ruby.
Product Catalogue: Benz Micro Ruby Z / ZH
Introduction
The Benz Micro Ruby Z / ZH represents Swiss excellence in moving coil (MC) phono cartridge design. Manufactured with handcrafted precision, this cartridge combines noble materials, advanced engineering and exceptional sound response, intended for the most demanding audiophiles seeking pure and detailed analogue reproduction.
Design and Build
The body of the Benz Micro Ruby Z / ZH is crafted from zebrano wood, carefully machined to offer a rigid and lightweight structure. This material not only provides an elegant aesthetic, but also helps to reduce unwanted resonances, improving the clarity and naturalness of the sound.
The generator uses a ruby plate as a base, a distinctive element that provides superior mechanical stability and precise vibration transmission. This innovative design is one of the keys to the characteristic sonic performance of the Ruby series.
Technical Elements
- Cartridge type: Moving coil (MC)
- Body material: Zebrawood
- Generator: Ruby plate
- Stylus: Nude line-contact or Micro Ridge diamond
- Cantilever: 0.28 mm solid boron rod
- Weight: 10.6 g
Performance Specifications
|
Parameter |
Ruby Z |
Ruby ZH |
|
Exit |
0.35 mV |
0.7 mV |
|
Internal impedance |
38 Ω |
38 Ω |
|
Frequency response |
10 Hz – 50 kHz |
10 Hz – 50 kHz |
|
Channel separation |
>35 dB at 1 kHz |
>35 dB at 1 kHz |
|
Channel balance |
<0,5 dB |
<0,5 dB |
|
Recommended support force |
1.8 – 2.0 g |
1.8 – 2.0 g |
|
Compliance |
15 µm/mN |
15 µm/mN |
|
Recommended load |
>240 Ω |
>400 Ω |
Sound and Auditory Experience
The Benz Micro Ruby Z / ZH offers a wide soundstage, with precise detail reproduction and a natural harmonic texture. Its extended frequency response allows for deep bass, warm mids and crystal-clear highs. The Z version, with lower output, is optimised for high-gain preamplifiers, while the ZH offers a more versatile medium output.
Compatibility
Thanks to its weight and compliance, this cartridge adapts perfectly to medium- or high-mass tonearms. Its design allows for simple integration into audiophile-grade high-fidelity systems, guaranteeing optimum performance on high-end turntables.
Recommendations for Use
- Running-in: Approximately 40 hours to reach maximum performance.
- Optimum operating temperature: 23 °C.
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning of the stylus with a soft-fibre brush and storage in a dust-free environment.
Warranty and Origin
Each Benz Micro Ruby Z / ZH unit is hand-assembled in Switzerland and subjected to rigorous quality controls. It includes a 2-year warranty offered by the manufacturer and authorised distributors such as Lyricaudio.
Conclusion
The Benz Micro Ruby Z / ZH is a cartridge that combines art, science and a passion for analogue sound. Its design featuring a ruby plate, wooden body and precision components makes it a benchmark in the world of high-fidelity vinyl. Ideal for those seeking an authentic, balanced and deeply musical sound experience.









Jorge Pérez Mena (verified owner) –
Excellent in every way. Fundamentally very kind and easy to listen to. Very satisfied with the addition of this model.