Lyra or ZYX ?

Well I would recommend the ZYX, but the best fit for you could depend on the rest of your system. True, the ZYX and Lyra are very agile, detailed and lively, but in my system, with my ears I preferred the ZYX Airy 3 over the Lyra Helikon. I wound up getting a UNIverse later, but that's another story.

Now if your system is a bit too ripe and you are looking for serious speed and resolution, the Lyra just may be for you. I have not heard a faster, more transparent cartridge than the Helikon, but what it reveals may not please you. I find the Lyra works better on warmer tables like VPI, Nottingham, etc. The ZYX will not give you that last ounce of detail, but will sound more natural. That's just my $0.02, take it for what it's worth.

I own and use a Lyra Delos and for me, is the most natural sounding cartridge I have owned. I would rate it better than my Monster Cable cartridges, which are now ZYX. Just more open and detailed without any strain or emphasis on any one part of the music.

This is not easy I suppose. Helikon is traditionally known to be fast and lean and I am not really looking for that kind of sound. I am looking for something that is naturally detailed. I read some good things about Delos so considering it.

I also remember reading somewhere that ZYX cant do rock and pop well. How far is that true ? 30-40% of my consumption is classic rock and blues.