SoundSmith cartridges how good?

Soundsmith is like all the reputable brands discussed here.

I've heard the top of the food chain Straingauge which plays with all the other VERY expensive carts(for le$$), along with several throughout the line. As long as you have a competent supporting cast-table/phonostage, your own ears determine if it's "right" for you.

Added plus is they are rebuildable at a reasonable fee.

I've been using the $400,entry level Otello for awhile. Been  taking a break from $1K+ LOMC's. Does all the things we expect of nice carts, just at a lower level, which is expected. So good, it's been able to temper my urge to get a "proper" cart.

"The Paua mkII is a wonderful cart and it’s what gave me the upgrade bug to the Hyperion."

I'm envious.
I heard the cactus needled Hyperion demoed by Peter years ago. What stayed in my mind is the fact it was on an "average" setup-VPI HRX and thru his bookshelves.
The sound coming thru the unimpressive looking small bookshelves was huge. Only thing that topped that was hearing the amazing straingauge, which was another setup there. 

Those 2 carts are in the BADASS category to my ears.

I've mentioned this experience in the past thread. Even Peter was impressed with the sound of his gear when we  played one of my "stampers" I had with me. It was David Gilmores debut album. Peter wanted to keep the album for his demos!

Off topic sidenote:
Pink Floyd fans, if you don't already own this album, get it. You want
this version
https://www.discogs.com/David-Gilmour-David-Gilmour/release/751793
For a 70's Rock album, audiogeek/phool demo showoff worthy, IMO.