Cartridge buying in Japan

Posted by: --duncan-- on 03 August 2002

The time has come to replace the knackered K9 and the better half is in the land of the cheaper (allegedly) Cart. Has anyone here done this and if so, can they recommend places to buy in Tokyo or Sendai?

I appreciate that asking for a Cartridge recommendation is akin to asking what colour I should paint the front room, but here goes...I enjoyed the lively sound of the K9, much of my Vinyl is in less than mint condition (s/hand, Jamaican pressings), on Vinyl I listen to Reggae, Hip-hop and other Dance stuff, 40's-70's Jazz (but nothing Avante Guard!).

Seems appropriate that I get a MM or high output MC at this point as the St*nd, Arm and Power-supply will be addressed before thinking of moving to exotic MC. Any suggestions?

duncan
Posted on: 03 August 2002 by David Stewart
As everyone else is ignoring you, I'll venture to offer a suggestion. I know a lot of people are keen on the Dynavector range which allegedly are much cheaper in the land of the rising sun.

If you're budget is low the 10x4 Mk11 is worth auditioning. Its a high output M/C cartridage so will work with M/M input boards. Next up the range (I think) is the DV-20X which also gets good reports.

David
Posted on: 03 August 2002 by Dev B
I second David's recommendation the high output Dynavectors would seem like a good choice. I would also look ar some Grados or Ortofons.

Dev

ps. I notice from your profile you're a research physio - do you know lots about back pain? Mine is killing me frown
Posted on: 04 August 2002 by Alex S.
May I suggest that you paint the front-room deep yellow - nice and Summery.

Alex

BTW The DVs are good - I was a little underwhelmed by my 20X but the 17D2 is good at playing bad pressings; needs an audition though - may be a touch bass-light for your choice of music (fast and punchy though). Also, don't think it would be out of place in your set up with K boards.

An ES Co rebuilt Troika or Karma may also be worth considering, and they talk very highly of the Benz Micro.
Posted on: 04 August 2002 by --duncan--
The front room started out as deep yellow and very cheery it was too, but we've recently gone for a creamy white with a hint of green. 'Cottage cheese' it said on the tin. Very restful and I have to say shows off the olive green most effectively.

Thanks for all the suggestions, it's difficult to get to hear cheaper Carts. these days.

Anyone been to Japan?

Dev, I've emailed you.

duncan
Posted on: 04 August 2002 by Rico
Dev

chiropractic is not everybody's cup of tea. If you're interested I can recommend a very good one in Finchley (I've been to a good number over the years in many different countries) - e-mail me if you're interested.

Rico - SM/Mullet Audio
Posted on: 04 August 2002 by nodrog
I just saw your post abt cartridge-buying in Japan. In fact I bought my Dynavector 10x4 Mk II here in Tokyo for my Rega P3. Cost was 20,000yen (abt 105 GBP at today"s rate) I can't remember the cost of the higher priced models but can find out for you. Best place to buy audio goods is Akihabara.
Great cartridge, but tends to pick up an awful lot of dust. Big improvement over the previous Ortofon MC Turbo.
I have a K9 on my Linn Axis in the UK. I'd say the Dynavector is a lot better, although I haven't heard the Linn for 5 yrs.
Please contact me by email if you need more info from Japan, ie: where to buy etc.
Peter