VPI Bloodwood cartridge
Best high-fidelity upgrade for discerning analog audio enthusiasts.
Experience superior analog sound with the VPI Bloodwood cartridge, a limited anniversary edition born from a unique collaboration. This high-fidelity phono cartridge builds upon the acclaimed Miyajima Takumi design, enhanced by VPI's expertise with a specially voiced Blood Wood body. It delivers a distinct sonic signature, engineered for discerning listeners seeking refined performance. Schedule an in-store demonstration to experience its exceptional analog playback firsthand.
$2100.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
173
/ 1649
#173 in Turntable Accessories
Price vs Category Average
+67%
Above average
Model Number
VPI-BD
/ VPI-BD
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking an immersive and highly detailed listening experience
- Vinyl collectors prioritizing both acoustic resonance control and elegant design
- Listeners demanding precise playback and minimal distortion from their records
Who should skip it
- Owners of entry-level systems without high-gain phono preamplification
- Novice users lacking experience with complex turntable calibration tools
- Budget-conscious listeners seeking an affordable upgrade for their turntable
Performance breakdown
Sonic Detail Retrieval
Shibata stylus geometry extracts incredible micro-detail from complex record grooves.
Harmonic Richness
Blood wood body construction adds a natural, organic warmth to playback.
Tracking Precision
Moving coil design maintains stable contact through demanding high-frequency passages.
Build Craftsmanship
Exquisite material selection reflects the prestige of this limited anniversary edition.
Installation Complexity
Standard mounting requires a steady hand and precise alignment tools.
System Synergy
Expertly voiced by VPI to pair beautifully with high-end analog setups.
Key Specs
Model Number
VPI-BD
MPN
VPI-BD
Accessory Type
Cartridge
Parent Category
Turntable Accessories
Weight
0.0 grams
Mounting Type
Standard 1/2 Inch
Stylus Shape
Shibata
Cartridge Type
Moving Coil (MC)
Features
- Based on acclaimed Miyajima Takumi design
- Limited edition Blood Wood body
- Voiced by VPI engineers
- Distinct sonic signature
- High-fidelity playback
- Anniversary edition release
What customers say
The VPI Bloodwood cartridge is celebrated as a reference component for its exceptional musicality. Listeners consistently praise its rich, warm midrange and its remarkable ability to reveal fine detail without sounding fatiguing. The soundstage is frequently described as expansive, lending realism to recordings. Users also appreciate the aesthetic beauty and premium feel of the Bloodwood body, which many feel enhances the sonic signature. While positioned in the high end, the consensus is that the performance justifies the investment, encouraging long, satisfying listening sessions. Achieving its full potential requires precise setup, a standard expectation for equipment of this caliber. Overall, it delivers a deeply engaging experience.
Know before you buy
The Bloodwood cartridge is built upon the foundation of the acclaimed Miyajima Takumi moving coil design, which is highly regarded for its musicality and tracking precision.
The Blood Wood body is specifically voiced by VPI engineers to provide a distinct sonic signature. This natural material offers different resonance characteristics compared to standard metal or plastic housings, resulting in a more refined and organic playback experience.
The VPI Bloodwood features a Shibata stylus. This shape is known for its ability to extract high-frequency detail and provide excellent tracking performance across the entire record surface.
Yes, the cartridge utilizes a standard 1/2-inch mounting type, making it compatible with the vast majority of modern and vintage tonearms.
As a moving coil (MC) cartridge, it requires a phono stage that supports MC inputs. Ensure your preamp or integrated amplifier has the appropriate gain settings to accommodate the low output typical of moving coil designs.
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$2100