The Old Swiss Lady vs. the Modern Japanese Woman – A Comparison of Two Worlds
Nowadays, the Japanese manufacturer “analogis [ JC ]” is on everyone’s lips – and ears. The needles made in Japan stand for solid quality, precise manufacturing, and fair prices. Just a few years ago, the situation was exactly the opposite: the audiophile world was enamored with Swiss products, marketed under labels like “Stylus Company” or “Analogis.” The Japanese alternative was often only purchased when no Swiss version was available.
All the more exciting is this direct comparison of two needles from these eras – the “good old Swiss lady” versus the modern, highly precise Japanese woman.
The contenders in the test:
- Swiss version: Excel S-70 EX with parabolic stylus
- Japanese version: [ JC ] with Shibata stylus
General Sound Characteristics:
Both needles deliver impressively high sound quality. The subtle differences become apparent primarily when listening critically on high-end equipment.
The Shibata stylus comes across as a bit more discreet and reserved in direct comparison. It creates a very nicely closed soundstage with excellent imaging and a pleasant studio-like precision. Especially with acoustic music, it reveals its strengths: vocals stand firmly in the space, plucked instruments sound clear and well-defined, and the stereo image remains transparent and clean even in complex passages. The high frequencies are finely resolved, clear, and yet pleasant without harshness.
The Swiss needle with parabolic stylus, on the other hand, impresses with a more direct response and conveys a lively, almost charmingly musical character. Its microdynamics are very pleasant – subtle volume gradations in vocals or soft guitar playing are rendered with great nuance. This makes it the perfect partner for small jazz or chamber music recordings, but also for ’70s pop or live soul.
Both needles have their strengths: The Shibata scores with clarity, spatial imaging, and technical precision, while the Swiss needle convinces with a musical, emotionally engaging reproduction that simply brings joy.
Although the Shibata may seem technically superior, the “old Swiss lady” won this test in terms of sound – at least subjectively. Additionally, it is more affordable and remains a clear recommendation when well maintained. Anyone seeking an “analog overall experience” will be very happy here.
Recommendation:
For lovers of classical music, jazz, vocals, and acoustic instruments – especially on older pressings – the Swiss needle is a real insider tip. The Shibata is excellently suited for audiophile pressings, modern vinyl productions, or as an upgrade for demanding listeners with a well-tuned setup.
Technical Background: Stylus Types Compared
Parabolic Stylus (Swiss):
A classic, slightly elliptically modified round stylus that offers solid tracking and a harmonious high-frequency response. Parabolic styli were frequently used in the past because they deliver a good balance between manufacturing effort and sound quality. They track well, are robust, and forgive minor setup inaccuracies. Their strength lies in a musical, pleasant overall sound that never becomes tiring – ideal for long listening sessions.
Shibata Stylus (Japanese):
A complex, line-contact-like stylus with a long contact surface on the groove flank and fine vertical extension. Originally developed for quadraphonic (CD-4) applications—similar to the parabolic stylus—it enables especially detailed tracking of high frequencies. Shibata styli offer higher resolution, smoother groove tracking, and thus a more stable soundstage. However, they are more sensitive to setup and require careful adjustment of azimuth and overhang.
Note:
The Excel ES-70EX4 cartridge has a relatively low build height. Those who frequently change cartridges and want or can adjust the tonearm height should consider using VTA adjustment aids like the RassBones:
