Product Description
Low moving mass is key to performance, and by pursuing that key element, it is not surprising in the least that Soundsmith would develop and perfect not only low mass moving iron designs, but also a Strain Gauge cartridge system, one wherein the normal moving mass required to generate a signal is simply not necessary. That is in fact the case with the Strain Gauge design, a nonmagnetic, non “voltage generating” system that is employed to read the grooves of a record.
The design uses the energy that is normally “lost” in supporting the cantilever, and routes that energy to two small elements made of silicon which vary the current flowing through them when they are placed under varying amounts of pressure. This results in a “displacement” measuring cartridge, which does not require RIAA equalization to correct the signal response as all magnetic cartridges do. This allows an elegant ultralinear low distortion preamp circuit to be employed, further reducing the distance between the music lover and the music. It is a system that must be heard to be understood or believed. There is a secret in those grooves, and the Strain Gauge will let you in on it.
The Soundsmith Strain Gauge system is for those music lovers who insist on making the cartridge and preamp completely disappear. Known for its lack of “colorisation”, extreme speed and neutrality, the Strain Gauge system transports you directly to the performance whether a live stage event or one that took place in the studio; you are there. By eliminating the generator mass, this cartridge is free to follow what was truly recorded into the grooves.
The SG-200 features fixed line output, and 5 choices of user replaceable styli. (bottom left)
The SG-210 features both fixed line output, as well as 15dB boosted variable output to drive any amplifier directly if desired. 5 choices of user replaceable styli. (bottom right)
The SG-230 is a full system preamp including the Strain Gauge circuitry along with 4 line inputs, single ended and balanced outputs to drive any amplifier as well as fixed outputs. Full function remote control and 5 choices of user replaceable styli. (top)
Made in the USA
The Soundsmith is a specialty audio manufacturer located an hour north of New York City. Founded in 1972, Soundsmith has achieved an enviable reputation in the audiophile world for unique designs, outstanding sonic quality and extremely high value products. Perhaps best known for their work restoring cartridges of all makes and for their novel Strain Gauge and Fixed Coil cartridges, every Soundsmith product is handcrafted in Soundsmith’s Peekskill New York factory by a carefully selected team of artisans and engineers.
