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Fidelity Research FR-1

The Fidelity Research FR-1 opened the history of the famous Japanese marque and now ranks as collectible. Its ultra low 0.1 mV output demands a high gain MC phono input or a step up transformer. The conical stylus tracks from 1.5 to 2.0 g with 2.0 g nominal. The stylus is integrated, so a worn diamond means a retip.

Stylus: Integrated
Series: FR-1
Type: MC
Stylus Shape: Conical[ radii (mil / µm) 0.5 mil (≈12.7 µm) ]
Price: 112600 JPY (1965)
Class: Collectible

Weight & Dimensions (H×W×D): 10.5 g · 17 × 16 × 27 mm
Output Voltage: 0.1 mV
Frequency Response: 20–20 000 Hz
Channel Separation: 27 dB
Channel Balance: 1 dB
Tracking Force: 1.5–2.0 g (nominal 2.0 g)
VTA: 15°
Compliance Value: 10 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne (1978); 12 × 10⁻⁶ cm/dyne (1965)

Additional Info

The Fidelity Research FR-1 leads with warm, textured midrange presence. Vocals emerge with natural body and weight, imaging stays focused rather than sprawling, and moderate bass density gives rhythm sections a grounded, unforced pulse for jazz and acoustic material. The conical profile keeps tracking relaxed on well-worn pressings, favoring musicality over forensic detail. The stylus is integrated, so wear means a retip.

Sound × Setup

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Collectors

add 01/23/2026 · upd. 08/02/2026