Experience with DS Audio Optical Cartridge Systems

jperry - I too generally refrain from offering an opinion unless I’ve heard the equipment being discussed. In the case of the DS Audio system I do have experience with it and definitely stand by my opinion of the quality of its sound. I have 7 turntables set up at the moment in 3 different systems, two with DS-003 cartridges. In terms of the life-like quality of the sound, I’ve simply not heard anything better. 

Anyone do a direct comparison between the DS cartridges and the SoundSmith Strain Gauge?

I mentioned how much I like the DS GM cartridge. My previous carts that it bested was an Ortofon Century and before that was a Top Wing Blue Dragon. As @saburo  commented the DS is a “major disrupter” and on the level of Tesla to the automotive industry.

Ken Kessler reviewed the DS optical cartridge( Grand Master?) and the Soundsmith Strain Gauge in Hi Fi News magazine, this year. Basically he said they are both on a level and both game changers. 

Ken Kessler reviewed the DS optical cartridge( Grand Master?) and the Soundsmith Strain Gauge in Hi Fi News magazine, this year. Basically he said they are both on a level and both game changers.

Sure they are game changers - 52000EU for the cartridge and equaliser - they are going to destroy the market for sure, sell a million units before the. years out.

No, the only reason they could be called game changers is the definition of conspicuous consumption - I’m waiting for the first $100k cartridge. $50k cartridges have been around for some time now - its a bit meh.