Koetsu Cartridge Question


Greetings All!
I have been considering the purchase of a Koetsu cartridge, either new or used. From the research I have been able to conduct, it seems that these carts like to be loaded at 100 Ohms. Warnings abound about phono stages and availiable gain due to the low mV output of these cartridges. (Platinum editions output 0.25mV) I am currently envolved with a Benz Micro Glider at 0.8 mV output. My Conrad Johnson EF-1 phono stage is only capable of the following load impedances: 200, 500, 1.9K, 9.6K, and 47K. Availiable 'gain' in the C-J unit are 40, 46 and 52 dB respective. My table is a Michell Gyro SE, equiped with an SME V arm. The EF-1 runs into a C-J Premier 17LS pre, then bi-amped into a C-J Primier 11 and C-J MF 2250 amps. Can I make a Koetsu cartridge work with this set up? I do not want to replace the EF-1 phono. Thanks for any/all advice!
Regards,
quincy

Showing 1 response by albertporter

The Koetsu Platinum is worth the extra effort, but I agree the other posters that CJ EF-1 does not have enough gain at 52 DB.

I own the Koetsu Rosewood Platinum Signature, combined with Aesthetix Io (80 DB gain at factory setting). I actually have to reduce preamp volume when switching from CD to phono because the LP has so much more gain.

By the way, should you decide on the Platinum. I arrived at 1K Ohm loading after a lot of testing. Loading recommendations are effected by interconnect cables, phono and preamp designs as well as personal preferences.