Founded in the mid-1970s by Yoshiaki Sugano in Japan’s Chiba Province, Koetsu is a legendary name in high-end audio. Named after Renaissance artist Honami Koetsu, the brand reflects Sugano’s own Renaissance spirit—boxer, artist, sword maker, and former automotive executive. Driven by a deep love of Western classical music, Sugano pioneered the use of ultra-pure materials like 6N copper and platinum iron magnets to craft phono cartridges of extraordinary musicality. 

After ceasing production in 2021, Koetsu was revived in 2025 by Arturo A. Manzano of Analog2Fidelity, who brought back the original team of master craftsmen and trusted suppliers. Renowned for their sonic richness and visual beauty, Koetsu cartridges are handmade in Japan and celebrated by audiophiles worldwide. From the Rosewood to the Urushi Vermillion, each model embodies a legacy of precision, passion, and artistry that defines the inimitable Koetsu sound.