IST-201 vs Krell KPE Standard
The KPE Standard's mm gain is 36.5 dB against the IST-201's 26 dB, its output impedance 10Ω against 1Ω, its weight 5.5 kg (12 lbs) against 1.7 kg (4 lbs), and its height 61 mm against 65 mm.
AI-generated product photo — not official manufacturer imagery.
IST-201
IkedaAmplifiersPhono Pre-Amps
Estimated price (community-sourced)
$2,700 - $5,600
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
About the IST-201
The Ikeda IST-201 is a premium step-up transformer handmade in Japan, optimized for low impedance moving coil cartridges ranging from 1 to 6 ohms. It features a high-efficiency core with Mu-metal magnetic shielding and a solid aluminum machined body to minimize interference. The transformer provides a 26dB step-up ratio with a frequency response of 10Hz to 100kHz (±0.6dB), channel separation over 90dB at 1kHz, and channel balance within 0.1dB. It includes rhodium-plated RCA connectors mounted on an insulating plate and a floating ground switch to reduce hum. The IST-201 is praised for revealing musical details and timbral cues with extended break-in, making it suitable for high-end audio systems and pairing well with Ikeda's 9 series and KAI cartridges as well as other low impedance MC cartridges. Dimensions are approximately 5.5 x 3.7 x 2.2 inches, weighing about 3.74 lbs.
Specifications
Analog Output
Analog signal output specifications
- Output Impedance
- 1Ω
Phono Preamplifier
Phono stage specifications
- MM Gain
- 26 dB
- Adjustable Loading
- No
- Adjustable Capacitance
- No
Physical Dimensions
Size, weight, and appearance
- Dimensions
- 140 × 65 × 95 mm (W × H × D)
- Weight
- 1.7 kg (4 lbs)
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions