v.1.9.0 updated 07/17/2026

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ADC K8C

The ADC K8C opens the American IM lineup at the entry level. Its 5 mV output feeds any standard MM phono input. The conical stylus tracks from 1.0 to 2.0 g by specification. The replaceable stylus is the RK8, and Phono Culture lists 4 compatible replacement styli.

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Stylus: RK8
Series: K Series
Type: IM
Stylus Shape: Conical[ radii (mil / µm) 0.7 mil (≈18 µm) ]
Class: Entry-Level

Mounting: standard 1/2"
Weight & Dimensions (H×W×D): 5.75 g
Output Voltage: 5 mV
Frequency Response: 15–20 000 Hz
Channel Separation: 24 dB
Recommended Load: 47 kΩ
Tracking Force: 1.0–2.0 g

Additional Info

The ADC K8C leans forgiving rather than analytical. Its conical tip and modest tracking control smooth over surface noise and minor mistracking, a relaxed, easygoing listen for well-worn records. Dynamics and bass stay gentle while vocals sit warm rather than razor-etched. The stylus is replaceable, and the cartridge often ships pre-mounted as the RC398-D headshell combo.

Replacement styluses for ADC K8C

ADC	RK8E	Elliptical
JICO	AE10311	Conical
Tonar	579-HYPEL	Hyperelliptical
Tonar	6473-SHIBA	Shibata

Sound × Setup

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Collectors

add 02/03/2026 · upd. 08/02/2026