Frequency is measured in units known as hertz, which is abbreviated as Hz. The Denon DL-103 moving coil cartridge has a frequency response range from 20 to 45,000 Hz. Each musical note has its own distinct frequency, often related to that note's pitch but not dictated by it. One hertz is equal to one cycle per second of the sound wavelength created by playing the note. 45,000 Hz signifies that there are 45,000 wavelength cycles in one second for a note.
Impedance is a measure of electrical resistance in a conductor as expressed in ohms. The Denon DL-103 phono cartridge has an initial load impedance of 100 ohms as well as an output, or operational, impedance of 40 ohms. Sound quality is greatest from a phonograph when the load impedance, which will dissipate while traveling through the system, is equal to the output impedance.
The Denon DL-103 is outfitted with a diamond-tipped stylus that measures 16.5 microns. Diamond-tipped styli are more expensive than sapphire or osmium and can reliably play records without scratching vinyl for 300 hours, about six times as long as the service life of a sapphire stylus; diamond styli may be able to last for 1,000 hours.
The optimum tracking force range for the Denon DL-103 stylus is between 2.3 grams and 2.7 grams. The tracking force is the weight of the stylus on the vinyl record; too much weight can cause the record to scratch, while too little weight will make the stylus jump from the grooves. The tracking force of a phono cartridge is adjusted from the counterweight situated at the other end of the stylus arm.