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 3 responses by quincy

Kurt,
Yes, I have noticed that 'used' Koetsu cartridges are for sale on Audiogon. I have and will buy again off Audiogon. I do not think I would ever purchase such a specialized device off of E-Bay. As far as the Benz is concerned....No I do not feel it is to 'bright'. I have just had the "Benz" for 18 months, and would like to try another type of cartridge. And yes, I have checked out all the reviews here prior to posting my question. No one has posted a negative responce about any Koetsu product. I always try the Audiogon search engine route first to save the 'repeat from last week' answer syndrome. Do you think a 0.6 mV Koetsu at 200 Ohms loading and 52dB Gain setting will work? If not, I wish to avoid an expensive mistake!
Regards,
Bryanp,
Speakers efficiency is 92 dB. Kef Reference Series, Model 3-2. Audioquest interconnects and speaker cables. Bi-Amping with tubes on high end, solid state on low end.
Regards,
Kurt,
Well, now that I know that I need to stay in the 0.6mV range family of Koetsu cartridges I can start shopping! I am not in any emergency replacement mode, so, I may even try E-Bay based on John's recommendation (see above). Based on your experience and recommendation, I will avoid the "Black" Koetsu version (entry level) and look for other 'Koetsu versions' perhaps even the Urushi! I will post a thread when the eventfull day occurs! Thanks everyone!
Regards,