Takumi Kuro MC

Takumi Kuro MC – greater focus, speed and stereo depth

Design concept: precision tracking and transient definition

The Takumi Kuro MC is the second model in the Takumi cartridge range, building directly on the musical foundation of the Aka. A boron cantilever and nude elliptical diamond replace the Aka's aluminium and conical pairing, consequently delivering sharper transient definition and improved low-level detail retrieval. The low-impedance 5 Ω generator furthermore ensures broad compatibility with virtually any MC phono stage.

Boron cantilever: lighter, stiffer, more accurate

Boron is chosen for its exceptional stiffness-to-weight ratio — a cantilever material that transmits groove modulations to the generator with minimal energy loss. The nude elliptical stylus reduces contact mass compared to a bonded conical, thereby improving high-frequency tracing and reducing groove wear. Together, these choices give the Kuro a more analytically capable character whilst retaining the musical ease that defines the Takumi range.

Sound character: focused, fast and spatially convincing

The Kuro is quicker and more precise than the Aka, without sacrificing tonal warmth. Transients arrive with greater clarity, complex harmonic textures are easier to resolve, and the stereo image is wider and more stable. Above all, the treble benefits most — gaining air and definition without hardness. The Kuro therefore suits demanding music with fast dynamics: jazz, classical, and rock all reward the upgrade.

System compatibility and setup guidance

With an output of 0.26 mV and an impedance of 5 Ω, the Kuro is suited to any MC phono stage offering a recommended load of 100–470 Ω. Tracking force is 1.8 g (range: 1.6–2.2 g), and the 9 g body is consequently compatible with the majority of tonearm geometries. The Kuro pairs naturally with the Takumi TT Level turntable range.

Specifications

• Cantilever: Boron
• Stylus: Nude elliptical, r/R = 6/15 µm
• VTA: 20°
• Coil: Square 4N OCC
• Weight: 9 g
• Output: 0.26 mV
• Impedance: 5 Ω
• Output balance @1 kHz: < 0.5 dB
• Channel separation @1 kHz: > 25 dB
• Frequency response: 20 – 22,000 Hz
• Tracking ability @315 Hz: 60 µm
• Dynamic compliance: 13 µm/mN
• Recommended load: 100 – 470 Ω
• Tracking force: 1.6 – 2.2 g (recommended: 1.8 g)

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between the Takumi Aka and the Kuro?

The Kuro uses a boron cantilever and nude elliptical stylus in place of the Aka's aluminium cantilever and bonded conical. The result is greater detail retrieval, sharper transients, and a wider, more stable stereo image.

What phono stage do I need?

You will need an MC phono stage with a recommended load of 100–470 Ω. Most quality integrated amplifiers and standalone phono stages offer this setting as standard.

Can the stylus be replaced by the user?

The Takumi Kuro MC has a fixed stylus assembly that is not user-replaceable. For stylus service or replacement, please contact Novus Audio directly.