Description

The JICO J44A-7 IMP NUDE moving magnet cartridge represents the handcrafted evolution of the legendary Shure M44-7 cartridge , faithfully replicating its original technical specifications and perfecting its sonic profile. Designed and manufactured entirely in Japan with exclusive production processes, this professional MM pickup stands out for its Jico Type S tubular aluminum cantilever and the naked conical stylus made of natural diamond without joints, a solution that guarantees maximum fidelity in groove tracking and an extended, dynamic and vigorous tone.

The 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response , 8 mV output and 47 kOhm load impedance ensure universal compatibility with any MM phono stage, while the adjustable tracking force between 1,5 and 3 grams allows for optimal versatility of use. The sound is characterised by powerful low frequencies and a marked live effect, while maintaining a substantial tonal balance that makes it ideal for those looking for a hi-fi turntable cartridge capable of combining energy and precision. The 16 mm high and 5,6 gram body of the cartridge includes a built-in stylus protector and comes supplied with the N-44-7 IMPROVED NUDE stylus , compatible with the entire Jico N44 series.

For those wondering how to replace a Shure M44-7 cartridge while maintaining or even improving sonic performance, this Made in Japan MM cartridge represents the perfect 1:1 replacement, with refined features and a purely Hi-Fi build quality that enhances every detail of the analog recording.

Specifications

Typology	MM (moving magnet)
Output voltage	8mV
Stylus	Conical full nude in natural diamond
Phono load impedance	47 kW
Weight	5.6 g
cantilever	Jico Type S Aluminum Tubular
Read force range	1.5-3 g
Internal impedance	47000 Ω
Frequency response	20-20000
Attack / assembly	Compatible Shure M44-7
Stylus replacement	N-44-7 IMPROVED NUDE
country of origin	Japan
Dimensions (WxHxD)	16 mm (height)
Trim	Nude

About the brand

JICO, an acronym for Nippon Precision Jewel Industry Co. Ltd., is a Japanese company founded in 1873 specializing in the production of high-fidelity phonograph cartridges and styli. Headquartered in Shin Onsen-cho, Hyogo Prefecture, JICO represents the excellence of Japanese craftsmanship in the hi-fi accessories sector, positioning itself as a global reference for audiophiles and analog music enthusiasts seeking precision components for their stereo systems.
JICO's history dates back to 1873, when the company began producing sewing needles for the Kyoto market. This experience in the precision machining of miniaturized components proved crucial to the company's future evolution. In 1949, with the advent of phonographs in America, JICO leveraged its needle manufacturing expertise to begin producing steel styluses for record players, exporting to over 40 countries through collaboration with other factories in the region. The real turning point came in 1966, when, with the transition from mono to stereo phonographs, JICO began producing its own brand of phonograph cartridges, giving rise to a product range that today comprises approximately 2000 models compatible with cartridges from approximately 30 international manufacturers.
JICO's corporate philosophy is grounded in a concept of extreme craftsmanship that embodies the spirit of authentic Made in Japan. The unique location of its headquarters and production facility, in a coastal town three to four hours' drive from the major cities of Osaka and Kobe, far from being a limitation, has become a catalyst for independence and innovation. The logistical challenges and mountainous terrain, particularly challenging during snowy winters, have driven the company's founders to adopt a completely self-sufficient approach: design, production, and maintenance of all systems, equipment, and tools are carried out in-house. This home-grown philosophy, passed down from generation to generation, has led JICO to develop a unique expertise that extends to the smallest details, embodying the hospitality and meticulous attention to detail typical of Japanese culture.
JICO's distinctive technologies lie in the precision machining of diamonds and the ability to manually assemble microscopic components. Each JICO phonograph cartridge is composed of 2 to 45 different parts, individually assembled by specialized craftsmen using tools, fastening fixtures, and quality control instruments entirely designed and manufactured in-house. This verticalized production process guarantees extremely high quality standards and the ability to maintain production even for minimal orders, while maintaining compatibility with vintage and discontinued cartridges. Expertise in diamond machining, developed through decades of experience, allows JICO to create stylus profiles with micrometric tolerances, essential for accurately reading the vinyl groove and faithfully reproducing the audio signal.
JICO's core product line focuses on replacement cartridges and styli for turntables, with a catalog of approximately 2000 different models. This vast offering covers virtually all major phono cartridge manufacturers, from entry-level solutions to reference models for high-end hi-fi systems. JICO styli are available in various diamond profiles, from spherical to elliptical, from microlinear to Shibata, each optimized for specific tracking characteristics and compatibility with different vinyl record recording eras. For those seeking quality analog sources, JICO represents an ideal solution for enhancing their turntable within a dedicated high-fidelity stereo system.
In addition to phonograph cartridges, JICO has diversified its production by leveraging its expertise in precision machining. Since 1973, it has produced gauge contacts for the dimensional control of industrial components, since 1978 it has developed medical instruments and diamond burrs for dentistry, since 1990 CD player lens cleaners, and since 1993 diamond dressers for precision grinding. This diversification demonstrates the company's technical versatility and the solidity of the expertise developed in its core business of hi-fi cartridges.
For those looking for the perfect turntable, JICO cartridges are an essential upgrade to optimize the performance of the analog chain. Using high-quality styli allows you to extract the most information from the record, maximizing your investment in quality floorstanding speakers or bookshelf speakers. A complete hi-fi system that integrates transistor integrated amplifiers or tube integrated amplifiers with an analog source equipped with JICO cartridges allows you to rediscover the magic of vinyl with superior sound reproduction.
JICO's target audience includes discerning audiophiles, vinyl collectors, audio repair technicians, and enthusiasts who wish to preserve and enhance their vintage turntables. The price range varies significantly depending on the model and type of diamond profile, ranging from the most affordable solutions for replacing entry-level cartridge styli to premium models with exotic profiles for reference systems. JICO is committed to preserving the world of analog sound by continuing to handcraft individual pieces to order, thus ensuring the survival of turntables and cartridges that would otherwise be doomed to obsolescence.
For Italian hi-fi enthusiasts, JICO products are available through specialized retailers and authorized distributors who guarantee qualified technical assistance and advice in choosing the model best suited to their needs. The Italian distribution network ensures the availability of the most popular models and the possibility of ordering specific references for particular cartridges. After-sales technical assistance is essential for a delicate component like a phonograph cartridge, and JICO's Italian partners can provide support for proper installation, adjustment of playback parameters, and routine maintenance. To complete a reference hi-fi system, you can pair JICO cartridges with CD/SACD/DVD players for a quality digital source, or invest in power amplifiers or pre-amplifier configurations to maximize the potential of your stereo system dedicated to music listening.
JICO represents a unique example of how Japanese craftsmanship can thrive in the digital age, continuing to serve a niche of enthusiasts who recognize the irreplaceable value of analog sound reproduction through components crafted with absolute mastery and dedication.

Explore Jico

Find out more on our blog

How to Choose Your First Turntable: A Practical Guide (2025)

Entering the world of vinyl today means facing a choice that seems more complicated than it should be. Between belt-drive and direct drive, moving magnet and moving coil cartridges, straight and curved tonearms, the risk is getting lost in technicalities before even…

Belt drive or direct drive: which one to start with?

The first distinction in the world of turntables is between belt-drive and direct-drive. In the former, an external motor moves the platter via an elastic belt; in the latter, the motor is integrated into the platter's spindle. The difference isn't superficial: it changes the way the record spins, and consequently the sound it produces.

Often paired with

Nuovo

Supra DAC XLR DIGITAL BLUE AES-EBU
da 60 €

Cavi digitali ~~75 €~~

ADD NOW
Nuovo

Audiocostruzioni AL 14
da 90 €

Cavi di potenza ~~170 €~~

ADD NOW