Ikeda KAI - MC cartridge
We think
The Ikeda Kai represents a milestone in Isamu Ikeda's analog designs—a truly top-of-the-line cartridge considered the masterpiece of his career. Combining over four decades of expertise in an elegant, handcrafted housing, it offers a breathtaking blend of technical perfection , sonic transparency , and musical soul . With an output voltage of 0.19 mV and an impedance of 2.5 Ω, it's technically at the level of a low-output MC—but its performance is anything but classic. The Kai is passionately detailed, dynamically captivating, and a true expression of analog sound art.
Product presentation
The Ikeda Kai is a high-precision, handcrafted moving-coil (MC) cartridge . Its striking aluminum housing features a protective, deep-blue Alumite coating. Both the top and base are made of robust titanium to minimize resonance and ensure mechanical stability. The boron cantilever transmits signals extremely stiffly and quickly—combined with a micro-ridge solid diamond to provide the highest sampling resolution. The generator utilizes a low-resistance permalloy core coil , optimized for combination with a precisely formed samarium-cobalt magnet yoke . The interplay of these components makes the Kai both an analytical ingenuity and an emotional master of sound.
Special features
Alumite-coated aluminum housing with titanium top and base offers maximum resonance control.
The particularly fixed boron cantilever combined with an extremely detailed micro-ridge diamond .
An ultra-low impedance coil construction (2.5 Ω) is used – sonically transparent and dynamic.
Technology & Materials
The Kai 's technology is a masterpiece: The combination of high-quality cabinet material , extremely precise mechanics, and a highly efficient generator ensures minimal distortion and maximum detail. The boron cantilever is stiffer and lighter than conventional materials, for a noticeably responsive sound. The micro-ridge diamond precisely follows even the finest grooves. The permalloy coil operates in a strong, linearly guided magnetic field – for clean and dynamic signal conversion. Such technical integration is a prime example of analog engineering.
Sustainability & Manufacturing
Like all top-of-the-line Ikeda models, the Kai is entirely handcrafted and tuned in Japan . Each individual pickup undergoes extensive quality controls to ensure it meets the highest sonic and technical standards. Ikeda also offers a traditional repair and maintenance service – a guarantee of longevity, sustainability, and lasting musical enjoyment.
Technical data (specs)
System: Moving Coil (MC)
Output voltage: 0.19 mV rms
Impedance: 2.5 Ω
Recommended tracking force: 1.8 g ± 0.2 g
Frequency response: 10 Hz – 45 kHz
Channel separation: over 27 dB (1 kHz)
Channel balance: ± 1 dB (1 kHz)
Stylus: Micro-Ridge full diamond
Cantilever: Boron
Weight: approx. 11.5 g
Compliance: 7 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne
Test reports / press reviews
Internationally, the Ikeda Kai is considered an absolute reference cartridge. US reviewer Anthony Kershaw on Audiophilia described the Kai as a "world-class moving coil system," emphasizing its tremendous dynamics, expansive soundstage, and electrostatic-like transparency. He concluded that Ikeda-san rightly considered the Kai his masterpiece.
Stereophile magazine also praised the Kai's bass reproduction as "deep, fast, dynamic, and controlled—powerful, but not over-damped." Overall, the sound was described as "clear, expansive, and rhythmically captivating."
Background / History / Development
The Ikeda Kai builds on decades of pioneering work by Isamu Ikeda – one of the founders of high-quality MC cartridges in Japan. It is considered the "masterpiece" of his era. It is manufactured in the Ikeda Sound Labs factory, where each cartridge is meticulously crafted and tested – an analog statement par excellence.
Safety instructions
Electronic devices:
1. General Use: • Electronic devices are designed for use in enclosed, dry rooms only. Direct sunlight, moisture, and extreme temperatures may impair function. • Avoid proximity to water sources or other liquids. 2. Electrical Safety: • Use only with the specified power source (e.g., 220-240 V AC). An incorrect power source may damage the device or be hazardous. • Never connect the device to overloaded outlets or extension cords. • If there is any visible damage to the power cord or other components, do not operate the device. 3. Operation and Ventilation: • Place the device on a stable, flat surface. Do not block any ventilation slots to prevent overheating. • Ensure sufficient distance from other devices or walls (at least 10 cm) to ensure optimal ventilation. 4. Children and Pets: • Keep the device away from children and pets, especially small parts that could be swallowed.
Speakers:
1. Setup: • Place speakers on a stable and secure surface or use suitable speaker stands. Tipping over may cause injury or damage. • Position speakers so they are not obstructed and optimal sound dispersion is ensured. 2. Environmental Conditions: • Speakers are intended for use in dry, enclosed spaces. Avoid moisture and direct sunlight, which could damage materials or electronics. 3. Connections: • Use only compatible amplifiers and cables that meet the speaker's technical specifications. • Avoid incorrect polarity connections to prevent damage to the speaker or amplifier. 4. Children and Pets: • Speakers are not toys. Make sure they are placed out of reach of children and pets. 5. Care: • Clean the surface with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use chemical cleaners or water.
Cable:
1. Use: • Cables are for their intended use only. Use them only with devices that meet the cable's technical specifications. • Ensure that all connections are secure and tight for optimum performance. 2. Handling: • Never pull on the cable to remove it from a device. Always hold the plug firmly. • Do not bend, overstretch, or place excessive strain on the cable. Cables should not run under heavy objects. 3. Children and Pets: • Keep cables away from children and pets as they can be a strangulation or injury hazard. 4. Inspection: • Check cables regularly for visible damage such as breaks, cracks, or frayed ends. Damaged cables must be replaced immediately.
Accesories:
1. Use: • Accessories such as adapters, mounts or cleaning utensils must only be used for their intended purpose. Incorrect use can cause damage. 2. Care: • Clean accessories only according to the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid harsh cleaning agents or use in damp environments. 3. Safety: • Ensure accessories are correctly fitted or connected to prevent accidents or malfunctions. 4. Children and pets: • Accessories, especially small parts, pose a choking hazard and should be kept out of reach of children and pets.
Common instructions for all categories: • Operating instructions: Read the operating instructions carefully before using the product. • Repairs: Do not open or repair the product yourself. Contact an authorized service partner or the manufacturer. • Contact us if you have any questions: We are always available to answer any questions you may have about the safe use of our products.
Manufacturer information & EU contact