Soundsmith Straingauge SG-200 cartridge system


Hi everyone, haven't heard much discussion of this one in a while. I'm just starting to run a direct rim drive Trans Fi Salvation tt sporting a Trans Fi Terminator air bearing linear tracking arm. It's a total game changer imho, but I fear the Zu modded Denon 103 cart on it, excellent as it is, may have performance bettered by something more SOTA. I'm looking for something to match the tt/arm's neutrality, solidity and eveness, and am drawn to the Straingauge. Reviews praise it's speed and naturalness, but some comments are more guarded commenting on tonal thinness, edginess and overanalytic quality.
If it helps I hate over sharp carts like Lyra Skala, are more comfortable with neutral carts like the Transfiguration Orpheus, and feel the humble Zu 103 is a giant killer in the rhythmn/timing/involvment stakes.
So comments please from those who have experience of the Straingauge, thank you.
spiritofmusic
I have not tested one on my system, but I did spend a few hours listening to a SG-400 system at a friend's home. My initial reaction was thin and cool, but prior to the SG we were listening to a Grado Statement 1.

After my ears adjusted, my considered reaction was that the Strain Gauge system was very tonally neutral and natural sounding. I could see where is might be considered cool and thin if not paired to the right system, but all in all I would probably opt for more neutrality in the analog front end.

I will say that the SG was noticeably more quick and lively than the Grado (no surprise), and sounded great with all the musical genres we played it on. If I were looking to make a significant change in my analog front end I would certainly consider the SG system; assuming that it worked well with the overall tonality of my system (or that I was willing to change my amp/preamp to suit).
If you like your Zu 103, why not go the next step and get a Soundsmith OCL retip.
I've been using an SS retipped 103R in a Midas aluminium body for some time now and the jump in realism and transparency over the stock conical tip is amazing. The cartridge retains the involvement and superior pace and timing of the 103R.
While I'm sure the SG is excellent, every time i listen to my SS/103R it engages and thrills me and I wonder why I'd want to pay more. The musical bargain of our times IMO.
you must listen to the straign guage beofre purtchaseing. It sounds very different and you must be prepared for the differences.
Br3098, Tobes and Stringreen, thanks for your responses. Tobes, I see that you're running a Garrott P77 alongside your Soundsmith retipped 103. The Garrott is the very cart my tt designer is recommending I get to replace the Zu 103, run thru a Ray Samuels Nighthawk F117 phono stage. Any comments?