In the world of high-fidelity audio, the importance of a turntable cartridge cannot be overstated. Serving as the critical interface between vinyl and sound, the geometry and material composition of a cartridge are pivotal to the overall performance of an audio system. Wilson Benesch, a pioneering name in the realm of audio engineering, has taken this concept to new heights with the introduction of its TESSELLATE Ti cartridge.
Wilson Benesch has a rich heritage in cartridge development, dating back to the early 1990s when it first collaborated with Benz-Micro. Together, they created groundbreaking cartridge systems, including the world’s first carbon fibre cartridge bodies and headshells. This innovative spirit continues to drive the company, as evidenced by the TESSELLATE Ti, which embodies decades of research and advancement in cartridge design.
Selective laser sintering
The TESSELLATE Ti is a testament to Wilson Benesch’s commitment to geometric optimization. Developed in partnership with Renishaw PLC and the University of Sheffield, this cartridge is manufactured using cutting-edge 3D additive manufacturing technology. The process, known as selective laser sintering (SLS), involves the use of multiple high-power lasers to fuse titanium particles layer by layer, creating a one-piece cartridge body that is devoid of material redundancy. This meticulous construction leads to an incredibly lightweight yet robust structure, allowing for unparalleled internal damping characteristics.
Semi-open construction
One of the standout features of the TESSELLATE Ti is its semi-open construction. Drawing insights from the earlier Ply, Carbon, and Analogue pickups, the design incorporates a curved headshell surface. This innovative geometry not only enhances rigidity but also minimizes reflective surfaces that can cause unwanted resonances. The result is a cartridge that achieves maximum rigidity and minimum mass without compromising on sound quality. The semi-open structure ensures that the TESSELLATE Ti maintains a clean and precise sonic signature, making it a formidable player in the high-end audio market.
Moreover, the TESSELLATE Ti boasts an advanced hybrid cantilever design, integrating a state-of-the-art stylus cantilever with unidirectional (U.D.) carbon fibre damping. This combination significantly improves tracking by reducing resonance, allowing for a more accurate and dynamic audio reproduction. The U.D. carbon fibre, strategically positioned in an offset asymmetrical manner, enhances stiffness and damping without adding substantial weight.
Boron, sapphire or diamond?
Flexibility is another hallmark of the TESSELLATE Ti. The hybrid needle carrier is available in a variety of materials, including boron, sapphire, and diamond. Each material contributes unique properties that influence the overall performance and sound quality of the cartridge, allowing audiophiles to tailor their listening experience to their specific preferences.
As the vinyl resurgence continues to captivate music enthusiasts around the globe, the Wilson Benesch TESSELLATE Ti cartridge stands out as a pioneering innovation that promises to redefine the standards of sound reproduction. With its cutting-edge design, advanced materials, and meticulous attention to detail, the TESSELLATE Ti is not just a cartridge; it is a culmination of decades of expertise and a bold step into the future of high-fidelity audio. For those seeking to elevate their vinyl listening experience, the TESSELLATE Ti represents an opportunity to embrace the pinnacle of audio engineering.
