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

It combines hard 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, a 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.

Upon first listen, the sound was remarkably 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 ± 0.2 g
Impedance: 2.5 Ω
Weight: Approx. 30 g
Note: Designed exclusively for universal tonearms