Koetsu

Posted by: Tony L on 24 January 2002

I seem to recall we have some Koetsu users around here, the following news hit the Analogue Addicts mailing list earlier today…

Mr Yoshiaki Sugano, founder of Koetsu Japan, died on Sunday 20 Jan 2002. He was 94 years old.

I have no idea what this means regarding the future of Koetsu. It would be a real shame if it’s the end of these fine cartridges.

Tony.

Posted on: 24 January 2002 by Craig B

ISTR that Mr. Sugano's son (and/or daughter?) had essentially taken over operations quite some time ago so the lagacy has already been living on.

I have an interview article somewhere that includes pictures of the great master in his home. Interestingly he used a Garrard 401.

Craig

Posted on: 24 January 2002 by Frank Abela

What does ISTR stand for???

Regards,
Frank.
All opinions are my own and do not reflect the opinion of any organisations I work for, except where this is stated explicitly.

Posted on: 24 January 2002 by ken c

ISTR that ISTR means "I seem to recall"??? not sure...

enjoy

ken

Posted on: 24 January 2002 by Justin

what does "IIRC" stand for?

Judd

Posted on: 24 January 2002 by Peter Stockwell

IMHO BTW YMMV

Peter

Posted on: 24 January 2002 by Rico

I'd certainly like to read them, Dugby - cheers.

Many memeories of the good ol' Ko Black.

Rico - SM/Mullet Audio

Posted on: 25 January 2002 by Tony L

quote:
I have some really great articles on Sugano's own HiFi system and the lengths that he went to building cartridges to exceed perfection. I'll scan these and put them here if there is any interest ?

I would certainly be interested. I have never had the opportunity to really spend any time with a Koetsu cartridge, and have only heard them in very less than ideal situations like hi-fi shows, dems etc. Even in these locations I got the impression they really had a special quality. I would love to hear one at home.

One thing that always came across was that Koetsu always had great integrity - a family of incredibly skilled craftsmen. Koetsu always seemed to be well outside the bullshit, snake oil, and cowboy dealings that are sadly commonplace within the high end audio industry. Even if I didn't like the cartridges, I couldn't help but respect the company.

Tony.

Posted on: 30 January 2002 by Eric Barry

I bought a Koetsu Black Goldline with broken stylus for $75. Will send it along to Expert Stylus when money is more plentiful for me. Not sure I'll like it, but it should be interesting to try.

--Eric