How Does the Soundsmith


How does the Voice MI cartridge stack up to low output MC cartridges in the $3000 to $6000 range? I am using a ZYX Atmos MC (.24mv) cartridge now with a VPI Aries 2 TT and a JMW 12.5 arm. I am using a modified Ayre phono stage.

I would like to hear from anyone that has compared the "Voice" cartridge to more expensive LO MC's.

How does the "Voice" do with complex music where a lot is happening on the recording?

I heard this cartridge at RMAF last year, but it is hard to draw conclusions in such an enviroment.
slowhand

Showing 1 response by dgad

The Voice was demoed on a low mass Schroeder armwand. Also, the new Phantom w. the Titanium armwand is very low mass. Great cartridge for the money. The Oswald Mills System catered to its strengths in RMAF last year. I myself was ready to buy it after RMAF last year but held off due to no MM phono stage.

But... sound differences apply. The Colibri is probably the most detailed cartridge I know. It is truly a matter of personal taste. The Colibri for me is a finely tuned race car. Lets say a Porsche. You feel every bump on the road, the power and any mistake in user input you will lose control.

The Voice is more like a big muscle car. Tons of power but a bit smoother. It just goes. You feel the power, but the growl is sweet and the lines of the car are classic.

You should honestly have both types of sound if you can put it in your system. Especially if the LP is such that a ZYX or Colibri will show the failings of the LP.