The Simplest Approach to the Best Possible Design
The Motor
In case you thought the motor’s only job was to make sure the record rotates at the correct speed, think again: as the only source of energy for the signal generated by the cartridge, in short, the music we hear, it’s arguably the most important component of any record player. The DG X’s motor system is derived from that developed for the flagship RG-1 Reference Motor Drive and it is as sophisticated as it is innovative.
DG X’s advanced motor drive incorporates a programmable microprocessor with a D/A converter to provide low distortion sine and cosine waves that are used to turn the motor. The signals generated are then amplified to the correct level using two bridged-balanced amplifiers. The amplified drive signals then feed and control every move of the motor to ensure a linear, smooth turning of the drive pulley. The motor itself is a low voltage Precision Synchronous design, individually ‘tuned’ for the lowest noise by adjusting the microprocessor controls during manufacture. A copper foil and a stainless-steel cover provide shielding of both inward and outward interference to ensure the best possible performance. The result is accuracy and precision of drive to the motor that ultimately is responsible for extraction of the music from the record groove. There is a service panel on the underside of the chassis to facilitate connection to the motor drive PCB for future adjustment and software upgrades.
The Platter
Drive to the platter is via a precision machined aluminium alloy pulley on the motor and a bespoke silicon rubber drive belt for smoothness and durability, while electronic speed change, via a switch to the rear of the plinth top-plate, adds to the ease of use and removes any need for belt-handling. Like the pulley, the platter itself is also precision-machined alloy, to the top of which is bonded a PETG record interface mat. On the underside an aluminium alloy bonded disc controls platter resonance while a cork/Neoprene/nitrile bonded disc protects the acrylic plinth from accidental damage that could be caused by the platter inadvertently touching the plinth.
The Main Bearing
The platter fits onto the super polished stainless-steel spindle that rides on a precision tungsten carbide ball in the high tolerance DG X main bearing housing. The complete bearing assembly is long-term lubricated for longevity and ease of use. This avoids regular repeated recharging of the bearing lubricant, which is essential to prevent premature wear and damage – another example of simplifying record player maintenance and optimising performance. DG X’s new optimised aluminium alloy bearing clamp ensures optimum interface with the sub-plinth and combined with the new tolerance improved bearing assembly delivers even lower noise, lower rumble and higher rotational stability all essential for accurate playback of records.
The Tonearm
The DG X arm, Groove Runner X, is uniquely Vertere and differs from conventional thinking in its use of a flat profile in place of the usual tube. Conventional arms use tubes for stiffness, but these can introduce all kinds of problems with high Q resonances and thus the need for extra damping – complicated and sometimes undesirable. DG X’s bonded double five-layer, non-resonant tonearm beam avoids these problems. In addition, in place of its predecessor’s flexible PCB, Vertere Pulse internal wiring is used to ‘carry’ the signal from the cartridge. Completing the arm are a stainless steel counterweight with azimuth adjustment screw and a fine adjustment tracking weight, to provide a total solution that’s as simple and elegant as it is innovative. With these two weights the arm effective mass can be set to match perfectly the cartridge used for optimum performance.
Tri-Point bearing
Groove Runner X bearing assembly has been upgraded from the thread bearings of GR-S to its bigger brother, SG-1 tonearm’s, Tri-Point bearing system. This upgrade improves rigidity in supporting the cartridge and enhances the agility of the arm/cartridge union to respond much faster to groove modulations and bring to life music’s true dynamics.
The adjustable bearing point on the GR X provides simple and precise setting of the Vertical Tracking Angle for optimum performance. GR X benefits from having a detachable internal wiring that allows the entire arm beam to be removed from the tonearm bearing pillar. This ensures absolute safety when the record player is transported and yet keeps the setup of the arm/ cartridge intact to be refitted when the record player is next installed without the need for further alignment – simple and effective.
The Plinth
The DG X’s plinth is a masterful example of engineering, featuring a sophisticated three-layer sandwich construction. The main plinth and sub-plinth are composed of non-resonant cast acrylic, chosen for its superior ability to eliminate unwanted vibrations and preserve the integrity of sound. This clean and sophisticated design is not just about aesthetics – it’s about achieving a new standard of audio precision.
Incorporating key functional elements seamlessly into the design, the DG X’s plinth includes the control button, speed indicator light, and user-selectable standby mood lighting. The thoughtful integration of these features further elevates the user experience, enhancing both convenience and ambiance.
At the heart of the design is a suspension system that isolates the sub-plinth from the main plinth and chassis. This isolation strategically ‘distances’ the bearing/platter assembly and tonearm/cartridge from the structural components, minimising vibrations and ensuring that every musical detail is faithfully rendered.
Sitting atop a critically-damped steel chassis, the plinth assembly benefits from optimal stability. The motor drive circuit and motor are housed within this stable foundation, supported by three adjustable feet for precise levelling and performance.
Completing the design, the DG X features a sleek, formed acrylic dust cover that clips neatly onto integrated hinges, creating a modern, streamlined profile that complements the elegance of the record player’s overall look.
