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FR66s vs Ikeda IT-407 CR tonearms

Has anyone compared the FR66s to the newer Ikeda IT-407 CR1 tonearm? Any thoughts? In previous years, the Ikeda was available with either copper or silver internal wiring but the recent models don't mention anything about the tonearm wiring. Can anyone comment what type of wiring is used in the latest editions? It would seem intuitive that the later Ikeda IT407 should be a better performer than the FR66s having improved material and bearings over the FR66s but the proof is in the hearing.
ddriveman

Showing 2 responses by advanced101

advanced101
25 posts
 
Just want to throw my opinion in on Tonearm cable.  I have tried many high end (expensive) tonearm cables with my FR-64S Silver Wired/ Koetsu setup.  I have not beat the Ikeda HBC-MS-5000DR.  This was the stock cable that came with my Ikeda 407CR1 Tonearm.  Liked it so much I changed the DIN and RCA connectors to Furutech CF.  Weird thing is that there isn't anything special about the construction of this cable, good ol' copper.
advanced101
25 posts
 
I own the FR-64S Silver and the Ikeda 407 (Newer Style).  I use the Micro Seiki AST-10 Weight on both.  I much prefer the 64S with a Koetsu Blue Lace.  Not even close.  I could go on but Ill echo Syntax's experiences.
If you compare a 64S with the FR VTA Lifter that is on with the 66S they sound pretty close.  Probably not worth the extra $4k that that 66S costs.  But in a hobby where many are willing to pay a lot of a little it isn't a surprise. 

The early version of the 407 arms did have the Stainless Arm tube making them closer to the FR-66S in terms of sound signature.
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