Van Den Hul Colibri XGW Master Signature Phono Cartridge

The Colibri XGW ‘Master Signature’ Is the Pinnacle of Phono Cartridge Design

The Colibri XGW ‘Master Signature’ is a flagship phono cartridge that combines advanced engineering with bespoke craftsmanship. Featuring a pau ferro wooden body and a tailored output range from 0.30mV to 1.1mV, this model delivers exceptional audio fidelity and versatility. It represents the apex of A.J. van den Hul’s relentless pursuit of sonic perfection.

Enhanced Magnetic Resolution for Unmatched Detail

The Colibri XGW ‘Master Signature’ incorporates an additional magnet to improve its resolution capabilities. This enhancement strengthens the magnetic field, reducing distortion and noise to unlock previously hidden sound details. The result is a cartridge capable of capturing the finest nuances in recordings, delivering pristine clarity across the entire frequency spectrum.

Pau Ferro Wooden Body for Superior Tonality

The wooden body of the XGW ‘Master Signature,’ crafted from pau ferro, is more than an aesthetic choice—it plays a critical role in enhancing sound quality. Pau ferro, known for its stability and resonant properties, provides a natural damping effect. This material minimises unwanted vibrations and resonates harmonically, allowing for a warm, open, and balanced tonal signature.

Output Levels Customised for Optimal Performance

This model offers a standard output of 0.60mV at 5.6cm/s, with optional outputs ranging from 0.30mV to 1.1mV. This customisability makes the Colibri XGW ‘Master Signature’ a versatile choice for different audio systems and listening preferences. Whether you prioritise subtle detail for classical music or dynamic energy for jazz, this cartridge adapts to your needs.

Precision Cantilever and Stylus Design for Exceptional Accuracy

The Colibri XGW ‘Master Signature’ is equipped with a short cantilever, optimising the directness and precision of groove modulation transduction. The VDH - 1S stylus shape with a radius of 2 x 85 microns ensures exceptional tracking ability and groove contact, delivering unrivalled fidelity and spatial realism.

Key performance metrics include:

• Frequency Range: An expansive 5 – 65,000 Hz for comprehensive sound reproduction.
• Channel Balance: Less than 0.5 dB unbalance, ensuring impeccable stereo imaging.
• Channel Separation: Greater than 35 dB, providing distinct and immersive soundscapes.

Tunable Compliance for Light Tonearms

The XGW ‘Master Signature’ supports tuning of static compliance to accommodate light tonearms while maintaining superb tracking ability. This design feature ensures compatibility with a broad range of setups, allowing audiophiles to achieve optimal synergy between their cartridge and tonearm.

Bespoke Craftsmanship and Customisation

Every Colibri XGW ‘Master Signature’ is hand-built to order, with options to personalise the output level, tonearm compatibility, and even the container design. For a truly unique experience, the wooden container can be inscribed with the owner's name, making this cartridge a personal statement of audio excellence.

Technical Excellence in a Compact Design

The Colibri XGW ‘Master Signature’ combines minimalism with cutting-edge performance:

• Tracking Force Range: Adjustable between 1.35 – 1.5g for tailored performance.
• Dynamic Compliance: 20 Micron/mN, ensuring responsive and accurate playback.
• Load Impedance: Advisable range of 50–600 Ohms for optimal system integration.
• Moving Coil Resistance: 36 Ohms ± 10% for exceptional signal purity.

The Colibri Legacy: A Masterpiece of Sonic Artistry

As the successor to the Grasshopper “Beauty” series, the Colibri XGW ‘Master Signature’ is a testament to van den Hul’s expertise. Its meticulous design and innovative features deliver a sound profile as swift, elegant, and captivating as its tropical bird namesake.

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