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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
spiritofmusic OP
828 posts
 
Just resurrecting this thread. Will be auditioning the Soundsmith Straingauge SG-200 at the end of the month. At this point, I'm happy that my ESCCo modded Zu 103 is ahead of my previous fave, the Transfiguration Orpheus. Really curious to hear how the S'gauge will stack up against the Zu 103.
So, still scouting for opinions on the S'gauge, from those familiar with it.
junk981
25 posts
 
I'm waiting for a SG-810 two more months to go...
spiritofmusic OP
828 posts
 
981, you must have demoed the S'gauge. It sure seems to divide opinion. My dealer rates it better than various Transfigurations and Lyras, others remain to be convinced. Can you sum up your thoughts on it, how it rates to other carts you're familiar with, and what it's replacing in your rig?
Thoughts much appreciated.
junk981
25 posts
 
I don't have the cartridge yet so I can't tell you how it sound! It'll replace my Allaerts MC1 Boron MKII, Klyne 7 PX2.5 phono and PAC Pro-Reference III preamp.
spiritofmusic OP
828 posts
 
981, wow, that is quite an analog rig you are swapping out. But to do so before you've even heard the new cart (either in your system, or demo elsewhere), that's quite brave. How do you know you're going to prefer it?
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