Takumi Aka MC

Takumi Aka MC – the musical entry point into moving-coil replay

Design concept: stability and long-term reliability

The Takumi Aka MC is the entry-level model in the Takumi cartridge range. It combines an aluminium cantilever with a bonded conical diamond — a pairing chosen for mechanical stability and broad compatibility. The low-impedance 5 Ω generator consequently works well with virtually any MC phono stage, making the Aka a straightforward and dependable first step into moving-coil territory.

Hand-assembled Dutch engineering

The Takumi cartridge range is designed and hand-assembled by Rik Stoet with a single purpose: to extract music from the groove with precision, stability, and natural tonality. Every model shares the same core architecture — a rigid generator with square OCC coil formers and a mechanically stable cantilever. Furthermore, each cartridge is built to the same standard of care, from the Aka upwards to the Myo. The Aka represents the most accessible expression of that philosophy.

Sound character: warm, forgiving, and musically direct

The Aka offers a classic, unhurried presentation. Bass is firm and uncoloured, the midrange is smooth and natural, and treble retains a gentle warmth. Moreover, tracking is stable and forgiving — the conical stylus seats deep in the groove and maintains reliable contact even on worn or imperfect pressings. The result is a cartridge that rewards extended listening without fatigue.

System compatibility and setup guidance

With an output of 0.3 mV and an impedance of 5 Ω, the Takumi Aka MC 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 therefore compatible with the majority of tonearm geometries. The Aka pairs naturally with the Takumi TT Level turntable range.

Specifications

• Cantilever: Aluminium
• Stylus: Bonded conical, r/R = 5/20 µm
• VTA: 20°
• Coil: Square 4N OCC
• Weight: 9 g
• Output: 0.3 mV
• Impedance: 5 Ω
• Output balance @1 kHz: < 0.8 dB
• Channel separation @1 kHz: > 24 dB
• Frequency response: 20 – 20,000 Hz
• Tracking ability @315 Hz: 60 µm
• Recommended load: 100 – 470 Ω
• Tracking force: 1.6 – 2.2 g (recommended: 1.8 g)

Frequently asked questions

Is the Takumi Aka MC suitable for those new to moving-coil cartridges?

Yes. The conical stylus, broad MC compatibility, and forgiving tracking make the Aka an excellent first step into low-output moving-coil replay.

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