Soundsmith Strain Gage Cartridge system

"Provided everything is set-up to the nth degree"
Does this mean that one will want to use a standard cartridge when the physical quality of the record is less than perfect?

The strain gauge actually tracks better than "standard" cartridges and I have had no problems with less than perfect lps.

Steve

So, there is no need to keep a second cartridge and traditional phonostage?

Interesting conversation. I have been following this for a few days since I am going to get a 410 and strain gauge cartridge. I have heard the system at RMAF twice now and honestly, based on what I heard in the Soundsmith room, I would not have bought the combination. The room was too long and narrow, and not set up to reveal it's capabilities. While the sound was above average for the show, it did not stand out as being particularly special.

After talking to people who heard the set up in Miami and then in Colorado, I have given a more serious thought to it. When a combination excels some of best cartridges ever made, and does it for less money, a person has to sit up and take notice. Especially when the people making these claims own or have access to the best existing equipment!

I hope to hear/see more comments from people about the Soundsmith gear as more of it makes its way to market. These are exciting times...

O

o

.

I just received my Strain Gauge and I love it. After adjusting the VTA and the damping on my arm, I found the “sweet spot” for the line contact ruby stylus. I have never heard a more life-like image from any stereo system after installing the Strain Gauge. The sound is enveloping. I have the urge to jump into the sound stage and swim around with the music. Each instrument in the sound field breathes and sounds so natural. There is an ease about the music that allows you to relax and go with the music.
I believe that because the Strain Gauge does not use the RIAA curve, less phase distortion is present in the music, resulting in an effortless sound. I also believe because a moving coil or a moving magnet is not used in the system, the sound is less distorted. The way the Strain Gauge operates reminds me of the way a single-ended triode amplifier works. Like a single-ended triode amplifier, the highly doped silicon beams modulate the flow of current resulting in a voltage that follows the movement of the grooves with very low harmonic distortion.
It is rare that a theoretical advantage in audio actually yields a practical advantage. I believe that Peter has done it and the proof is in the pudding!

Sincerely,

John Pessetto