Kiseki Purpleheart

I purchased a Purple Heart N.S. SB about six months ago from Upscale Audio. First off Kiseki suddenly lowered the separation spec by 5dB as opposed to the standard 30mm model. Second about 35 hours in I started to notice 2-4 slight tings when raising or lowering the tone arm especially on the lead out groove. My conversation with the Upscale representative was that it was not an issue as long as it doesn’t interfere when playing. Yes it does sound and is one amazing cartridge. I really can’t hear those annoying little tings when playing an LP however I still have my antennas tuned in every time I raise or lower the stylus.

Well a little semi-closure here is in order. I sent the PH cartridge back to Upscale Audio for evaluation and since it has been determined to be defective and is under warranty, I get to pick out a replacement. (Yippie-Ki-Yea!) In all honesty their customer service team has been very helpful and responsive. Cartridges do go bad from time to time I guess, sheet happens. So to keep this short, I am faced with a few choices around the same price range. A little feedback here would be greatly appreciated.

1. Another Purple Heart

2. Sumiko Celeb 40

3. Lyra Kleos

4. ClearAudio Concerto

Thanks, Starwarrior 

Well I have to say that Upscale Audio took care of my PH issue and processed an exchange without question. An excellent company and customer service crew. I decided to go with the Sumiko Celebration 40 as a replacement since the specs were relatively close and first impressions are exciting as it’s breaking in. It doesn’t seem as warm as the PH yet not quite as detailed as a Kleos. A well defined, crisp  mid range & excellent high end. I did lower the gain by 2dB to warm it up a little and the bottom seems respectable without being too overpowering. All said, after 10 hours of break in time, NICE!