JVC MC1 Moving Coil Cartridge - Heritage?

Thanks for the kind words ☺️ The MC-L1000 is really something special and I feel priviliged to be able to hear what it can do.

Apart from the XL-88D there's one other cartridge I would very much like to hear: the Neumann DST-62. This is probably the earliest incarnation of the 'direct couple' or cantileverless MC theme and there are people out there who insist that this is the ultimate cartridge. Apparently less than 1000 were made in total and prices for well kept specimen are astronomical (a Japanese seller is offering one at this very moment for a staggering $9500). Has any of you heard this?

Alternatively, it seems that those interested could also try and find the Japanese built Lumière DST. Obviously inspired by the Neumann and sonically very close according to some. Probably just as rare, but perhaps at a more acceptable price point. Anyone familiar?

Anyone familiar?

Yes, a friend owned it but immediately noticed a problem of unbalance between the channels; sent her to Japan to the builder who apparently is a craftsman who works in the cellar or in a closet (no factory for this head)
After months and months of waiting and several emails in which the manufacturer replied little, the cartridge was returned worse than before.
This sad story lasted a long time later but my friend didn’t solve anything, practically the manufacturer never answered to the new repair requests.
The builder is an impostor and deserves to be sued, don’t buy this brand if you want to live happily!

I've heard that  Lumière DST is a terrible cartridge

Unfortunately there are non-conformist audiophiles who, to distinguish themselves from others, try at all costs the novelty along a different path, the specialized press and the internet with fake news thrown with surgical precision by ignoble influencers cloud the minds of these weak people who do not want to take known paths and consolidated ..... and here is the result.

I'm not quite sure I follow what you're trying to communicate here, but thanks just the same for waving the red flag on this Lumière. One less thing to worry about I guess.