To mark the 40th anniversary of Japan’s revered IKEDA Sound Laboratory, a landmark creation has emerged: the IKEDA KOHAKU moving coil cartridge. This limited-edition masterpiece is the result of over a year of uncompromising research and development, guided by Akiko Ishiyama—IKEDA’s legendary master of cartridge design and manufacturing.
Born from a rigorous process of design iteration, precision prototyping, and exhaustive listening tests, the KOHAKU encapsulates the essence of IKEDA’s heritage: a deep respect for analog purity, craftsmanship without compromise, and technical innovation at its finest.
A Celebration of Innovation and Artistry
More than a commemorative model, the KOHAKU represents a significant leap forward in cartridge design, incorporating groundbreaking features never before seen in IKEDA’s standard lineup:
Solid Diamond Cantilever
Offers unmatched rigidity and signal transmission fidelity, ensuring ultra-precise groove tracking.Platinum Plating Throughout
Adorning the body, base, contact pins, and even screws, platinum not only enhances durability but adds a layer of refined elegance.Silver Wire-Wound Coil
A first for a non-custom IKEDA cartridge, this upgrade delivers superior conductivity and heightened musical resolution.Dual Damper System
Engineered for optimal stability and control, even in the most demanding playback conditions.Symbolic Emblem Design
Created using multi-layer silkscreen printing, this distinctive visual hallmark captures the spirit of KOHAKU and IKEDA’s 40-year journey.
A Rare Synthesis of Technology and Emotion
The KOHAKU is more than a phono cartridge—it is a sonic artifact that bridges tradition and innovation. Every element, from the materials to the manufacturing process, speaks to IKEDA’s relentless quest for analog perfection. This cartridge is a tactile tribute to decades of acoustic exploration, engineering finesse, and Japanese craftsmanship.
With only 30 units available worldwide, the IKEDA KOHAKU is destined to become a collector’s item for audiophiles and analog connoisseurs alike—a jewel that commemorates the past while setting new benchmarks for the future of analog sound.
