Koetsu black

[Wakefield Turntables]

I intend getting one for my SME 3012. I just like hear any thoughts you guys might have on this cartridge.

[Dominic Harper]

Very nice cartridge that will work very well with the 3012 :)
A fidelity research FR 1 MK2 or MK 3 will be cheaper and give equally impressive results.

[StanleyB]

Legend :).

[Si74]

Be prepared for it to take a while to sound it's best.
My first one was second hand from a trusted source (200 hours on it),
my second was brand new and would have been a major let down had
I not known what it will sound like eventually:)

[PLINIUS]

Another magical performer in the 3012 was the Denon DL305, a signicantly better cartridge than any of the 103s. Andrew, have you heard the Black, it will work well in your arm.
Whether you like the sound of the Black or not, is a matter of taste.

[hifi_dave]

Are you referring to the Koetsu 'Black' or one of the later versions ?

[Wakefield Turntables]

Are you referring to the Koetsu 'Black' or one of the later versions ?

Yep, the Koetsu black. Altough I understand there is a version II.

[hifi_dave]

There has been several versions but the basic design is similar with the same arm/loading requirements. Just interested is all.

[The Grand Wazoo]

I've been using KB's since about 1990. I've got the current one in my arm now, but I have my first one, an original model, now with a VdH retip, as a spare. I've also had a Black Goldline.
Can you tell that I like them?!

[Wakefield Turntables]

Bought one:eek: should be here in about three weeks, keep posted.

[DSJR]

I have one with a broken wire inside :( Wonderful and fairly neutral sound unlike the syrupy Red model so revered by audiophools. Seems very arm tolerant with almost no microphonics in handling.

[Clive]

Would a Black be almost a polar opposite to a Decca?

[StanleyB]

Would a Black be almost a polar opposite to a Decca?
Like in bipolar disorder?

[Clive]

Like in bipolar disorder?
Only if they were in use at the same or regularly switched between.