Miyajima MADAKE experience

Hi: I’m late to the party too but I don’t want to start a redundant thread. I found a Japan-only Miyajima called the Mature Studio BE. A retipper examined the stylus and said it was a Shibata in very good condition. I wrote to Miyajima and they indicated that it was similar to the Shilabe but an early model and no parts were available if I was looking for a rebuild. I mounted it on a 47 Labs RS-A1 and it sounds smooth and rather beguiling. So much so that I’m now considering a Kansui or even higher in the range. Am I mad to be using the RS-A1? I also have an Ikeda 345 and a 12 inch Groovemaster lll. I’ve been through the stone Koetsu and Urushi thing as well as the SPU Synergy and Spirit as well as the Ikeda 9TT. I’m considering a Schröder Model 2. Maybe Chakster will chime in.

Thanks and I hope this post finds you all well.

Hi lewm: didn’t know about Chakster’s absence. He was a generous contributor and I hope that may continue.

I’ve been heavily invested in the high mass approach but over the last couple of years I seem to have lost that lovin’ feeling. This Miyajima Mature is a true departure for me. It came mounted in an alloy headshell with a 1mm brass spacer and my first take was ‘it’s a dud’. The RS-A1 had been on the shelf for over 10 years because it’s scary to use with shaky hands! This cartridge and tonearm combination has been revelatory but it’s such a break with my history I’m wondering if I’ve been delusional. If the luck continues it could mean selling off a number of cherished pieces. And then perhaps, regret. Seems like a little crisis of faith. Anyone else had this happen?