In Wellfleet, Sumiko retuned the suspension for optimal performance with the existing generator and resonance-optimized housing found in the rest of the Rainier series. However, Wellfleet utilizes a highly polished nude elliptical stylus, which eliminates the bonding between the stylus tip and shank. With the new assembly, excessive mass in the shank is cut away to further reduce tip mass, resulting in a faster, more direct, and more accurate response of the stylus’ movement by the cantilever and magnet. With the Wellfleet, vocals are immediate, clear, and detailed, the warmth of human vocal work becomes more apparent with hints of rasp and emphasized subtleties, boosted by tight and well-controlled bass. Backing vocals become easier to discern, and the listener is able to identify distinct instrumentation such as the rattle of snare wires, or the woody twang of vintage acoustic guitars. Listeners will hear an improvement in surface noise and sense a more distanced backdrop, facilitating a deeply suspended image. Flexibility is paramount in the brand’s offerings. Five stylus variations capable of utilizing this generator are available. Rainier owners can upgrade to Olympia, Moonstone and now Wellfleet with a simple stylus swap (and let’s not forget RS 78!). Sumiko's Latest OystersDesigned for discerning, value-minded audiophiles, Rainier, Olympia, Moonstone & Wellfleet supplement & compliment Sumiko's existing range of Oysters. They build upon, enhance & refine the sonic character listeners worldwide have enjoyed for decades. New innovation in cartridge design addresses the problem of resonance — the things that need to happen around a generator to voice a cartridge with honesty. The housing disperses & dissipates resonance, making way for effortless, transparent sonics that simply sound more alive with intimate nuances. The voicing is true to natural harmonics, space around voices & instruments as well as their attack & decay. Unique to these 4 Oysters (not to mention Amethyst), experience a diminutive backdrop that bolsters sonic images with a degree of aptitude reminiscent of moving coil designs. Upgrade PathRainier, Olympia, Moonstone & Wellfleet replacement styli are interchangeable. We encourage you to follow the upgrade path to experience the best of what this design has to offer. Hand-Crafted in JapanFrom Oyster to Reference, each Sumiko phono cartridge is crafted by hand in Yokohama, Japan — near the waters where Sumiko's namesake and their Oysters dwell. They selected the finest materials by ear to deliver a performance that has enlightened generations of listeners. Each design is thoroughly auditioned until perfected. Production is then executed by Sumiko's world-class cartridge makers with a collective eye for precision & quality. The result is a full horizon of cartridges eager to introduce themselves to your analog system.
