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MC Cartridges

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SAI
  • IKEDA SAI MC Cartridge
  • SAI Aya lower side
  • SAI Aya needlepoint
    • IKEDA SAI MC Cartridge
    • SAI Aya lower side
    • SAI Aya needlepoint
It combines the vivid sound and stable playback of previous IKEDA cartridges.
Shell-integrated cartridge

This MC cartridge was developed as the successor to the IKEDA's renowned "9MUSA-U."
The hard natural Karin wood is combined with pure copper and aluminum parts, and the magnetic circuit is gold-plated.
The boron cantilever, micro-ridge stylus tip, and high-output, high-efficiency power generation mechanism
It brings back the detailed yet lively IKEDA sound.
Specification.

Product name: IKEDA SAI (Aya)
Power generation method: MC type
Output voltage: 0.3mV
Appropriate stylus pressure: 2.0±0.2g
Impedance: 2.5 Ω
Weight: about 30g
Note: *For universal tone arms only
MC cartridge SAI stylus tip
The following is written in English.
An Integrated Headshell Cartridge Delivering the Lifelike Sound and Stable Performance That Define IKEDA's Legacy

This moving coil cartridge was developed as the successor to the renowned IKEDA classic, the 9MUSA・U.

It combines hard and natural Karin Wood with carefully selected pure copper and aluminum components, and features a gold-plated magnetic circuit for enhanced performance.

With a boron cantilever, Micro-ridge stylus tip, and a high-output, high-efficiency generator,
This model revives the spirited precision and vibrancy that define the unmistakable IKEDA sound.



At the Time of Its Release: A Noted Audio Critic's First Impressions of “SAI”

Upon first listen, the sound was incredibly well-balanced—yet also strikingly clear and detailed.
Its exceptional sharpness carries that unmistakable IKEDA Sound Labs character,
but never at the expense of tracking stability; everything remains solid and composed.

The frequency response is impressively flat, with a tone that is both natural and richly expressive.
In terms of detail retrieval, it ranks among the very best.
Because it imparts little coloration of its own, the sonic character can shift depending on the tonearm used—
a testament to the cartridge's refined, versatile nature.

I was particularly impressed by how the sound makes its presence felt without being overly assertive—
A truly commendable balance.


Specifications


Model Name: IKEDA SAI
Generator Type: Moving Coil (MC)
Output Voltage: 0.3 mV
Recommended Tracking Force: 2.0 ± 0.2g
Impedance: 2.5 Ω
Weight: Approx. 30g
Footnotes: Designed exclusively for universal tonearms

MC cartridge SAI lower side