Koetsu Rosewood on Rega

[PHC1]

Originally Posted by Antonmb

OK, yes,I’ve heard that over the years about Koetsu, but most of the recent reviews I’ve come across of the RSP indicate that that’s not necessarily the case, that the Rosewood is actually more balanced and detailed.

There are different versions of Rosewood? I could not tell you how they differ. I’ve never owned a Koetsu, only heard a few in different systems which left me satisfied with overall texture of sound which could have also been attributed to specific system synergy.

Which Rosewood do you have in mind?

[Antonmb]

Originally Posted by PHC1

There are different versions of Rosewood? I could not tell you how they differ. I’ve never owned a Koetsu, only heard a few in different systems which left me satisfied with overall texture of sound which could have also been attributed to specific system synergy.

Which Rosewood do you have in mind?

Looking at the Rosewood Signature Platinum. There’s the Rosewood, the Signature, and the Signature Platinum. http://www.koetsuaudio.com/cartridge...natureplatinum

[PHC1]

Originally Posted by Antonmb

Looking at the Rosewood Signature Platinum. There’s the Rosewood, the Signature, and the Signature Platinum. http://www.koetsuaudio.com/cartridge...natureplatinum

Tony, not an insignificant investment. There is a way to contact Koetsu right on that page. Perhaps reach out and see what wisdom they have for you in terms of your questions?

[Puma Cat]

Originally Posted by Antonmb

Thanks Stephen. Have you heard the new Aphelion?

I haven't, no. Just the Apheta 3 that came pre-installed on the P10.

[Puma Cat]

Originally Posted by Antonmb

OK, yes,I’ve heard that over the years about Koetsu, but most of the recent reviews I’ve come across of the RSP indicate that that’s not necessarily the case, that the Rosewood is actually more balanced and detailed.

Some of the Koetsus, e.g. the Black, the original Rosewood, etc. have been on the warmer side, but the higher-end models, e.g. the RSP, and the stone bodies are very neutral and resolving.

[mulveling]

My RSP is a circa 2000 build, and its bass is a bit less powerful than the stone bodies (I prefer the stones). The net result is that it's a little leaner sounding. Certainly not syrupy. But neither are the stone bodies - current Koetsu Platinum stones are much more neutral, resolving, and fast than some might think, given the reputation of some older Koetsu. But the classic Koetsu "rich, vivid" midrange is still there. I can't speak to the Black or Urushi models, yet. The son Fumihiko Sugano may well be at the top of his game making Koetsu cartridges, right now. I'd like to hear a new RSP compared to my old one (supposedly one of the very last with coils wound by Sugnao Sr.).

[RossB]

I've owned both a P10 and a Koetsu, and while both are very nice sounding, I'm not sure I would use them together.

The P10 is lean, fast, dramatic and a little bright. The Koetsu is warm, full, emphasising tone over detail or speed. As has been mentioned above, they are a bit of a clash of ideologies. If you like the speed and dynamics of the P10, the Koetsu does not seem a natural choice.

Also, Koetsus are fairly low compliance MCs and prefer heavier arms. They will not sound their best in a medium mass arm, like the Rega, and will probably lack a bit of bass weight and depth.

I would also be surprised if the Koetsu is only 14mm tall - I suspect you would need a 2mm spacer, but that in itself should not be an issue.

If not using a Rega cartridge, I think something like a Dynavector XX2 or Ortofon Cadenza would be a better match. I personally think the Cadenza Black or Bronze on a Rega turntable is one of those great matches in audio.

That said, a Koetsu on a Rega should still sound good - if carefully set up - but I suspect that the combination would not bring out the best in either.