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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
tobes's avatar
tobes
436 posts
 
Spirit, since you're located in the UK, retipping with ESC might be easier - no international shipping etc.
I don't have any personal experience with ESC, but audio friends here in Aust have used that option and are happy.

It will be interesting to read your thoughts on the SG when you get a chance to hear it - looks like a cheaper option than the Mastergroove (with whatever) too.

BTW, did you read the user review of the SG here on Audiogon?: [url]http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?ranlg&1227193071[/url]
spiritofmusic OP
828 posts
 
Hi Tobes, getting cart/phono choice right is rife with stress! Actually with cost effective upgrades to current carts via ESC this is one v. straightforward option.
I just feel with my v. neutral, fast, detailed and dynamic tt/arm, the Straingauge may be just the ticket since proponents certainly seem to say it demonstrates these attributes itself.
If it doesn't work out, the Zu/Transfig/Mastergroove provide options I'm sure I'll be pretty happy with.
spiritofmusic OP
828 posts
 
Will be having my Zu Denon 103 and Transfiguration Orpheus carts upgraded with Paratrace stylii and White Sapphire cantilevers by Expert Stylus Company in UK.
I will then a-b these with my current phono stage and possible upgrade against the Straingauge.
On basis of this will decide whether to plump for the more radical choice of going down the Straingauge route.
Would still like to hear those familiar with Peter's cart comment further.
Btw Peter TOTALLY refutes there is any 'harmonic curtailment' in the presentation of the Straingauge. Demo will prove this one way or the other I suppose. I have to say stripping analogue of euphonic warmth by going from belt drive to rim drive has heightened my appreciation of analogue, and I have a suspicion the Straingauge may extend this further.
robdoorack
63 posts
 
Dougdeacon, did you ever find the high value MM cartridge that impressed you so much?
spiritofmusic OP
828 posts
 
Well, I'm getting close to an interesting final cartridge choice. Just about to receive upgraded Zu Denon 103 and Transfiguration Orpheus carts with stylus/cantilever changes. Aiming to do a 3 way shootout with the Straingauge.
If the MCs win out will most probably upgrade my phono to the Tom Evans Mastergroove. If the Straingauge wins the day, this very particular avenue of analogue reproduction will be where it's at for me.
Going into this with no preconceptions of the outcome.
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