The Zavfino ZV11X is a high-end turntable of the highest class. In our test, you'll read how construction, technology, and sound impress and why it stands for uncompromising music enjoyment.
The Zavfino ZV11X is the top model from Zavfino Audio and is aimed at demanding HiFi enthusiasts. In our detailed test report, we show how passion, technical know-how, and intelligent construction come together – and what that means acoustically.
1. Vision and philosophy behind the ZV11X
1.1 The man behind the project: Will Tremblett
Founder Will Tremblett doesn't just invest capital – he invests his whole commitment into every product. For the ZV11X, transparency and sound integrity were his top priorities from the start.
He brought in support from external analog experts like Walter Fuchs to further optimize specific areas (e.g., motor control). This cooperative development approach pays off in practice.
Design inspiration & concept
The ZV11X has visual similarities with legendary turntables like the Micro Seiki SX8000, especially in its square footprint and the free-standing motor. However, the concept is not a mere copy:
- No 'mass-over-mass' principle, but thoughtful resonance control
- Solid material milling with multiple chambers for damping
- Five PU industrial shock absorbers in the base for resonance minimization
The entire construction consistently follows the goal: interference-free sound reproduction with minimal coloration.
2. Technical execution & components
2.1 Base, foundation & damping
The base is made of aluminum and is machined multiple times to suppress unwanted resonances. The elastic elements (PU dampers, silicone rings) mechanically decouple critical components.
2.2 Platter Bearing & Platter
The inverted bearing (made of non-magnetic stainless steel, bronze, Teflon, ruby ball) is of high-quality construction.
Originally, an aluminum platter was planned, but the sonic character only convinced with a 60 mm thick platter made of POM (polyoxymethylene). Multiple coatings provide an elegant appearance.
2.3 Motor Control & Voltage
The motor control comes from Walter Fuchs and provides a modulated control via 90-degree offset sine/cosine voltage.
The operating voltage of the 9 V motor has been reduced to 7.5 V, minimizing heat, friction, and thus disturbing influences. Furthermore, the circuit is designed for mains voltages from 95 V to 250 V – ideal for international use.
2.4 Tonearm TZ-1 by Helmut Thiele
The 12-inch tonearm TZ-1 impresses with its delicate construction and is designed for a wide range of systems – from lighter MM to heavier MC systems.
The height adjustment is done via a handwheel on two steel bolts – simple and elegant, even though it remains locked during playback.
3. Sound & Practical Experiences
3.1 Combinations & Setup
In the test, the ZV11X was connected with the included RCA cable Majestic MKII (approx. €400) and the tube preamplifier stage Luxman CL-38uC.
Testing was done with two very different cartridges:
- Luxman LMC-5
- Tessellate TI s (Wilson Benesch)
3.2 Sound Character
The Zavfino ZV11X is not a colorizer – it offers a neutral, transparent stage where the used cartridge system can fully unfold its characteristics.
With the LMC-5, it showed: very clear structure, playfulness, liveliness, and musical flow.
With the Tessellate TI s, the precision, detail resolution, and deep bass that creates a three-dimensional space were particularly impressive.
Music examples like 'Mediterranean Sundance / Rio Ancho' (Paco de Lucia & Al di Meola) or 'Take Five' created goosebump moments in the test regarding airiness, timing, and emotion.
4. Evaluation & Conclusion
| Criterion | Rating / Impression |
|---|---|
| Processing / Design | Excellent, puristic, and resonance-optimized |
| Technology / Construction | Innovative and well thought out |
| Sound quality | Extraordinary, honest reproduction |
| Adaptability | Ideal for high-quality cartridges |
| Price / Value | Very high price, but adequate performance |
Conclusion:
The Zavfino ZV11X is more than just a luxury turntable – it’s a statement for uncompromising sound. It avoids show effects, offers credible, authentic reproduction, and is perfectly suited for providing cartridges with a perfect foundation. For investors in the highest sound classes, it’s definitely a choice worth serious consideration.
Price: approximately 14,990 €
Warranty: 3 years.
For more info, please contact the German distribution: https://www.audiolust.de/
