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Koetsu cartridges - myth or reality?

Hi guys - I am looking to upgrade my 1 year old Dynavector xx1 MC cartridge - I have heard (and read) for many years that Koetsu cartridges are a great option for those looking for musicality, right timbre and lush-sounding analog.

Digging further I find that some cathegorize them as slow sounding, not great tracking and poor price/performance ratio as well... I am looking for advise from those who have experience with Koetsu - particulary those who moved from a fast sounding cartrdige like Dyna, Clearaudio or Lyra - missing anything once you moved?

Thanks

Fernando
128x128flg2001
piedpiper
753 posts
 
What budget are you looking into? It may be interesting to you that Albert Porter traded in his Jade for an Airtight PC-1.
Ag insider logo xs@2x
rauliruegas
9,123 posts
 
Dear Fernando: Good to know that you will have the IV that is a better match to your XX-2 that the RB300.

Now, IMHO and due to my Koetsu experiences that SME is not the best match for a Koetsu cartridge. If you insist on this kind of cartridges you will find a better quality performance with other tonearms.

I think that before you decide to go for a Koetsu take the time with your Dyna in the IV.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.
flg2001's avatar
flg2001 OP
543 posts
 
Thanks Raul - you are not the first one who say that the Dyna in the SME will really shine - I will definitely take my time there - the arm will be here next Wednesday.

I remeber you recommending me the Sumiko Celebration for the SME - do you still agree?

Regards,
Ag insider logo xs@2x
rauliruegas
9,123 posts
 
Dear Fernando: Yes, I do.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.
franks
150 posts
 
What arms would you reccomend for a Koetsu? In particular are their older or less popular arms, ie. high mass, that you would reccomend that would be considerided a bargain, less tha $2000?
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