ATN-14 from Jico

[Grbluen]

Ok, I've waited long enough. There really isn't a lot of feedback on this stylus from Jico, so I ordered one. The AT-13 is one of my favorite cartridges and the options have dried up! I'll give this one a long listen and report back.

 

[ripblade]

I think you'll be pleased. I have a 15Sa with Jico Shibata that plays quite well. It's a bonded tip, but not as bright as AT's original nude offering.

 

[Grbluen]

http://audiokarma.org/forums/index.php?threads/jico-atn20ss-stylus.413454/
I have nothing but respect for dlaloum!

 

[ripblade]

As do I, and true to his word, the OEM needles have pretty much gone the way of the Dodo....but that was to be expected.

In comparing the Jico to the OEM 15Sa, I noticed the cut facets on the AT stylus are much larger and easier to see. The Jico ones by comparison are less obvious and blend in more with the curvature of the cone. I didn't know there were different iterations of Shibata, but this might account for the reduced brightness of the Jico version.

 

[Grbluen]

The ATN-14 from Jico arrived this morning. The stylus rides a little lower than I'd like, but plays fine.
After two sides, I'd say I'm completely thrilled with this one! The character is indistinguishable from the original.
If anything, the resolving power is greater. The original had low hours, so I don't believe stylus wear is an issue.
I'll check back after more break-in.