Nature of Koetsu carts

I would not describe the Koetsu sound as "samey" or homogenizing.  They have a very dynamic sound, 3D imaging, never fatiguing.  I agree that Koetsu's have a special presentation of midrange but it only emphasizes the musical information that other carts miss. I bet the vermilion is an amazing cart on the correct tonearm.

Maybe I should buy that Urushi after all.  The re-tipping program 
is rather expensive though. Thanks for the input gentlemen.

Btw I’m running an Ikeda 345 tonearm (heavy) with the
idler drive Jean Nantais Mk ll. Jean seems to have a thing
for Koetsu carts and this looks like a good combination 
to me. Any comments?

The tonearm/cartridge combination is much more critical than is the turntable/cartridge relationship.  However, you've got the right type of tonearm for a Koetsu, so I say yes. The Ikeda should be ideal for a Koetsu.