2. analog
  3. 1024530822

Bottom Rung Koetsu..

Was thinking of going with a MC cartridge and a dealer recommened a Koetsu Black. (about $1200) The Black is, of course, the bottom of the Koetsu line. Though the price isn't cheap, I have always been a bit leary about bottom of the product-line items in terms of value. Anyone have experience with this cartridge or have comparisons to other similarly priced cartridges? Thanks
motdathird
twl
3,251 posts
 
Any Koetsu is a good cartridge. The question is do you like the sound? I like the Koetsu sound. Another cartridge to consider in this price range is the Shelter 901. Some consider it to be the best sounding cartridge of all. This is very subjective. Both the Shelter 901 and 501 provide excellent price/performance ratio. They are low output MC with about 9-10 compliance number. I think the weight is about 7-8 grams. Check the EIFL Export website from Japan.
wda
37 posts
 
I use the Koetsu Black with a Rega 600 and Michell gyrodec...I am quite happy with the sound. Have also heard good things about the Shelters but have not listened to one in person.
Good Luck!
tom_nice
387 posts
 
In its time--a long while ago--Koetsu Black and Denon DL 103D were considered roughly equal. You can buy a new 103D for $229, which I see as a great bargain. I got a second one, 20 odd years after my first, and enjoy it as much as my Koetsu Rosewood Signature in another system. Email me for how to contact Denon if you're interested.
More to discover