Hi Citizens, just got back from three days of listening to the Strain Gauge on several different table/arm/plinth/stylus combinations. In case anyone is unaware, there are five different styli available and you can change them in seconds.
I have heard Peter's sound at three shows, David and Nate are quite right, the SG sounds promising at best in his demos. The first time I heard it at RMAF in 2006, I was sure there was something special in the mix but the rest of the rig and room were doing their best to mask it.
I can assure you there is something special happening when the Strain Gauge is played in a smartly assembled system. The SG is much like a top level race car. if not properly set up, it will only be able to run in the middle of the field. However, when you hit the sweet spot, there MAY be only a VERY few cartridges that can keep the SG within sight. The rest will be lapped several times before the race is over. Don't let me scare anyone away because they think they may not be able to do a proper setup. The standard line contact stylus will be within most people's setup ability and sounds wonderful. The conical stylus will be relatively forgiving and should be on anyone's want list if you listen to mid 60s and older LPs. The top option optimized line contact stylus will take, no demand, a more dedicated and involved listener. It will require VTA be adjusted with every change in record thickness. It is that demanding but WILL reward you with the most accurate measurements of what is chiseled into the vinyl, no question. Another way to tell that you have the setup nailed, the groove noise is, by far, the quietest I have ever heard. As someone sitting next to me said, "erie".
BOO!
