![KOHAKU | MC Cartridge | IKEDA Sound Labs. [Official]](https://www.islabs.co.jp/files/libs/601/202207120915516002.svg?1754297250 "IKEDA Sound Labs.")
[Discontinued] KOHAKU
The culmination of IKEDA's 40th anniversary
Commemorative model featuring an integrated diamond cantilever
The first in IKEDA history to use an integrated diamond cantilever.
The stylus tip integrated with the cantilever has a microridge shape.
The dampers are carefully selected double dampers with different hardness levels.
The base and body are machined from extra-super duralumin, the strongest aluminum alloy, and are also a first for IKEDA with a platinum-plated finish.
The inner base is made of a special vibration-damping alloy that has extremely high vibration absorption capabilities.
The exterior is buffed and then platinum plated.
The generating coil uses silver wire, which boasts the world's highest conductivity.
From the moment you put the needle down, you feel immersed in the soundscapes left behind by great musicians.
This is a commemorative model presented by IKEDA Sound Labs., which has been conducting research and pursuing fidelity for 40 years.
This is a commemorative model presented by IKEDA Sound Labs., which has been conducting research and pursuing fidelity for 40 years.
*Released July 7, 2025 Limited production: 30 pieces
Major features
1. The impressive presence of the integrated diamond cantilever
The single-crystal diamond cantilever, integrally formed with the stylus, eliminates any joints and precisely traces the minute vibrations of the record grooves.
We have achieved unprecedented purity in terms of information volume, resolution, and spatial expression.
You can enjoy the music and expression that your favorite albums truly intended to sound like.
2. Three aims achieved by the carefully selected double damper mechanism with different hardness levels
Previous IKEDA MC cartridges have had a standard damper mechanism, but the KOHAKU has a double mechanism.
This has a clear purpose both in terms of performance and music.
・Operational stability ・Further elimination of unnecessary resonance ・Rich bass .
Not only has she been manufacturing IKEDA MC cartridges, but she has also been manufacturing and repairing cantileverless MC cartridges.
As a cartridge builder, Akiko Ishiyama has incorporated her extensive experience and proven track record into this product.
3. The generating coil uses silver wire, which boasts the world's highest conductivity
We tried various types of wire materials for the power generation coil, including 4N copper OFC wire and PCOCC wire, and checked the sound with speakers each time.
We used a special silver wire with a personal touch, which fit perfectly with the concept of KOHAKU.
It produces a clear, crisp finish and a dignified aftertaste.
4. The exterior is beautiful and packed with IKEDA theory with a mirror buffed finish and platinum plating.
The body and base are precision-machined from extra-super duralumin, the strongest aluminum alloy, and then thoroughly polished with a buff.
One of IKEDA's theories on sound is that "stagnation accumulates in corners."
That is why IKEDA products have a rounded shape.
After the founder passed the baton to the second generation, the second generation had the skills to buff, and the techniques he arrived at in pursuit of further theory are firmly incorporated into the commemorative model KOHAKU.
The plating on the body was an important choice as it affected sound quality, and after repeated listening tests on prototypes, we chose platinum plating, which has high conductivity and is resistant to rust and discoloration.
The result is a product that combines high rigidity with a beautiful appearance, and is a satisfying finish both aurally and visually.
5. The meaning of IKEDA's first symbol and the intention behind double printing
For the first time, KOHAKU has a symbol printed on the body above the product name. According to its creator, Akiko Ishiyama, this symbol represents "light."
The symbol was created by brushing up an illustration that he actually sketched herself.
We are also trying new things with silk printing.
Yellow represents light. The creator is particular about this color too.
The yellow was swallowed up by the platinum-plated body color, resulting in poor color development.
What we tried here was double printing.
First, print a slightly larger design on the body in white.
After this has dried, a different design is printed on top of the white print in yellow, which represents light.
This makes the yellow color stand out and creates a three-dimensional effect.
It has become a symbol that beautifully expresses the coolness that comes with its noble brilliance, as well as the warmth and softness of the sound of the actual saegon.
IKEDA Sound Labs. Akiko Ishiyama
Message from the Developers
- IKEDA Sound Labs. Cartridge Builder Akiko Ishiyama - (written 2025)
It has been a year since we started production to commemorate the 40th anniversary of IKEDA Sound Labs. The manufacturer, IT Kogyo, also celebrated its 50th anniversary.
We wanted to embody the last words of our former president, who said, "I want to hear the sound of an integrated diamond cantilever." With that desire in mind, we set out to create a commemorative model.
The integrated diamond cantilever, which combines a square diamond cantilever and tip, provides delicate spatial expression of sound.
Taking advantage of the clear, bright high-pitched range that is unique to silver wire, we repeatedly researched the sound, trying various combinations and going through a process of trial and error to create the sound we wanted.
The name "KO" comes from the clear tone of the sound, like light shining brightly in the crisp air before dawn.
And the word "HAKU" means platinum. When you take each part of the kanji character "HAKU" and read them separately, they also mean “silver.”so we named it "KOHAKU."
We have finally achieved the sound we want to deliver to our customers. Please experience the clear high frequencies and quietness in between.
Specification.
Product name: Kohaku
Power generation method: MC type
Output voltage: 0.5mV
Suitable needle pressure: 1.5-1.8g (1.75g recommended)
Impedance: 4.0 Ω
Mass: 12.5g
Power generation method: MC type
Output voltage: 0.5mV
Suitable needle pressure: 1.5-1.8g (1.75g recommended)
Impedance: 4.0 Ω
Mass: 12.5g
*The IS-2TCR1 shown in the photo is not included.
Award Title
