Shane
The XOno is a fantastic tool for experiencing fine differences in cartridge loading and/or small VTA adjustments, next week I'll add different VTF's into the mix!! I started with low gain and loading at 100ohms changed to 89.19ohms but still had some energy at 450-500Hz Hz. The XOno let me hear a vowel coloration in vocals and saxes, the Sophia's mid range driver x-over it turns out is in this range so I was hearing a frequency response peak !!! Lowered the loading to 82.61ohms then lowered the VTA which solved that problem, improved timbre without loosing to much energy or focus. The Urushi was a hugh contributor with it's resolution, extension and dynamics. It's the same old story really good gear lets you hear other gear through it and points directly at your next "needed" upgrade!!
It's seems that loading is more about energy and VTA is more about emphasis (my rough generalizations thanks to the Xono).
When I first heard the Urushi I was shocked!!! Is this from the same maker of the Rosewood? I enjoyed the Rosewood's lush sound it was just beautiful but always left me wanting more dynamics and information especially in the mid-low bass and the low highs. When the first sounds of the Urushi came out of the speakers I was aware that I was experiencing another great component, you know those times, when you find yourself with a big smile that comes from awareness,appreciation and satisfaction.
It's not warm it's smooth with great dynamics and when coupled with the XOno's low end speed and power the bass is fast, precise and powerful. The highs through 2.7K are full and clean, I never felt I was missing information. In the upper midrange, xylophone keys had a tangible thickness when struck and the sound could float then dissolve with a delicate decay. It's ability to convey delicate innuendo from Koto strings to the powerful attack of xylophone strikes and the skin sounds of tom tom heads strikes make it a great cartridge and big league player how far down the bench I don't have enough experience to know but at least I'm in the dugout with it!!!!!!
