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JICO J44D IMP SD
JICO J44D IMP SD

Description

The JICO J44D IMP SD phono cartridge represents the hi-fi evolution of the legendary Shure M44G, designed in Japan to deliver superior sonic performance through an exquisite craftsmanship. This moving magnet (MM) cartridge faithfully recreates the original M44G specifications—stylus profile, cantilever-to-record height, and tracking angle—perfecting its tone with a balanced, extended, rich sound with a distinct three-dimensionality that makes it extremely musical.

The heart of the system is the Jico Type S tubular aluminum cantilever combined with the SD conical stylus made of synthetic diamond , a material with an integral structure meticulously calibrated by Jico to replicate the identical physical properties of natural diamond (chemical composition, crystalline structure, hardness), guaranteeing absolute consistency and superior durability. The genuine Made in Japan manufacturing uses artisanal production processes and exclusive tools developed in-house by the company, ensuring high quality standards.

With an output voltage of 6 mV , a load impedance of 47 kOhm and a tracking force of 0,75 to 1,5 grams , this hi-fi turntable cartridge guarantees wide compatibility with phono preamplifiers and precise tracking on even the most delicate vinyl records. The extended frequency response of 20 Hz - 20 kHz ensures faithful reproduction of the entire sound spectrum, while compatibility with any Jico N44 series stylus offers the flexibility to further customize the performance.

Ideal as a 1:1 replacement for the original Shure M44G cartridge, the JICO J44D IMP SD represents the perfect choice for those looking to improve the performance of their vintage turntable while maintaining the authenticity of the original sound with purely hi-fi quality.

Specifications

Typology MM (moving magnet)
Output voltage 6mV
Stylus SD (Synthetic Diamond) Conical in synthetic diamond
Phono load impedance 47 kW
Weight 5.6 g
cantilever Jico Type S Aluminum Tubular
Read force range 0.75 - 1.5 g
Frequency response 20 Hz - 20 kHz
Stylus replacement Compatible with Jico N44 series
country of origin Japan
Trim Standard

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.

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FAQ

Turntable cartridges and tonearms

Jico J44D
IMP SD

New
195 

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