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Grace F-9E

The Grace F-9E ranks among the audiophile classics of the Japanese light tracking school. Its 3.5 mV output suits any standard MM phono input. The elliptical stylus rides the groove from 0.5 to 2.0 g with 1.2 g nominal. The replaceable stylus carries the RS-9E designation in the catalogue.

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Stylus: RS-9E
Series: F-9
Type: ММ
Stylus Shape: Elliptical[ radii (mil / µm) 0.2 × 0.7 mil ]
Class: Audiophile

Mounting: 1/2"
Weight & Dimensions (H×W×D): 6 g
Output Voltage: 3.5 mV
Frequency Response: 10–45 000 Hz
Channel Separation: 30 dB
Channel Balance: ≤ 0.5 dB
Recommended Load: 47 kΩ
Tracking Force: 0.5–2.0 g (nominal 1.2 g)
Compliance Value: 25 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne
Cantilever: special low mass alloy

Additional Info

The Grace F-9E puts the voice first, with a naturally rendered midrange where vocals sit forward and organic. Its low-mass alloy cantilever and elliptical stylus keep tracing light and quiet, surfaces calm and dynamics relaxed on modest to mid tables. The design rests on the Omni-Axial Pivot from Shinagawa Musen of Tokyo, distributed in the US by Sumiko. Jazz, vocals and long easy sessions reward it.

Sound × Setup

Detail

78%

IGD Control

72%

Noise Suppression

75%

Dynamics—Attack

74%

Soundstage/Imaging

76%

Bass Density

71%

Vocals/Midrange

79%

Forgiving Character

82%

Tonearm mass light 100%

medium 0%·heavy 0%

Capacitance up to 100 pF 60%

100-200 pF 30%·from 200 pF 10%

Phono gain 39–42 dB 60%

35–38 dB 20%·43–46 dB 20%

Grace F-9E (MM) requires light tonearm (optimal match). Needs 39–42 dB gain preamp. Low capacitance design suits long cables. Excellent for high-compliance arms. Avoid heavy tonearms—risk of mistracking. Ideal for minimalist, resolving systems.

Collectors

add 03/22/2026 · upd. 08/02/2026