Is there a break-in period for Koetsu cartridges? I am using a new Koetsu which sounds somewhat harsh and throws a narrow soundstage...should this cartridge smooth out and open up over a period of time? Thanks
I don't really know. Before I had a Goldmund arm, which has a repeat, so I could use an old decrepid LP, I didn't like, I simply had to exercise patience and waited until the music began to bloom.
Try the Cardas Burn In disc. I'm not sure I got the name exactly right, but it has white noise tracks which are actually one continuous groove which can play indefinately. These discs are pressed on special hard, durable vinyl for repeated use. The disc also has many other diagnostic tracks which are quite useful.
Hi, I have 3 or 4 Koetsu, and currently breaking in my Urushi newly retipped.
My experience it takes about 60 hours (about 80 LP sides) to get the sound almost right. Almost 200 hours to really break in the Koetsu fully.
Make sure loading is 100 ohm. 47Kohm will be quite bright. Tracking for most Koetsu between 1.8 to 2.0 VTF. VTA is almost level, with slight dip to the rear of the arm tube.
Buy a cheap (99 cents) 12 inch rap or club music single, 45 RPM if possible. Use it to break in the cartridge (make sure the volume is way down!). I play it about 4-5 times per side each day for the first few days and that really shakes them loose...
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