DS Audio's Optical phono cartridge

[ack]

Old timers here have probably read my and others' numerous claims that cartridge loading should be as high as possible, to minimize the current flowing through the coils of a cartridge because of Lenz's law, thus actually maximizing dynamics; e.g. see this and this

Now comes a new cartridge which takes this and more to a new level; http://www.avhub.com.au/index.php/News/Hi-Fi/optical-phono-cartridge.html

 

[theophile]

In as much the same way that Soundsmith's Strain Gauge cartridge is interesting as a Displacement vs Velocity device not needing an RIAA stage to process the signal from the cartridge, There seems to be a dearth of information about this cartridge. I'm sure there would be many audiophiles who would like to know more about its real world performance.

 

[DonH50]

It still uses a stylus, but optically derives the signal instead of using wire and a magnet, to eliminate the electromagnetic force in the cartridge. Isn't by far the largest force exerted by the stylus moving through the groove, and inertia etc. from the tone arm and centripetal forces? Just how much benefit can there be with this scheme? The optical interface must be interesting... I wonder how much weight the optical sensor(s) add? And what the noise and distortion looks like (all their website says is that it offers the "upmost" in SNR)?

Hate me if you must, but I'd really like to see some specs on this one...

 

[Analog Kid]

It still uses a stylus, but optically derives the signal instead of using wire and a magnet, to eliminate the electromagnetic force in the cartridge. Isn't by far the largest force exerted by the stylus moving through the groove, and inertia etc. from the tone arm and centripetal forces? Just how much benefit can there be with this scheme? The optical interface must be interesting... I wonder how much weight the optical sensor(s) add? And what the noise and distortion looks like (all their website says is that it offers the "upmost" in SNR)?

Hate me if you must, but I'd really like to see some specs on this one...

There is no centripetal (or centrifugal) force involved in playing a record. The arm is not spinning, (other than the negligible rotation of the pivot as the arm traverses the record), the record is. The fact that the record groove is passing the stylus is not related any acceleration-based forces.

 

[theophile]

There is no centripetal (or centrifugal) force involved in playing a record. The arm is not spinning, (other than the negligible rotation of the pivot as the arm traverses the record), the record is. The fact that the record groove is passing the stylus is not related any acceleration-based forces.

The force on the stylus is the groove itself having been cut to traverse from perimeter to center of the record. Thus giving a 'push' to one side of the groove and not the other. If the record was cut from center to perimeter(as the rare novelty one is) the 'push' switches to the other wall of the groove.

 

[catastrofe]

Any updates? I've been "saving" for a Straingauge, but this is an alternative.

 

[Peter Breuninger]

All about the new cartridge...

 

[catastrofe]

Yep, saw that yesterday. Thanks.

 

[Loheswaran]

I love the idea of this (I am a new technology magpie) but most importantly how does it sound - especially compared to the Soundsmith.

Does it allow for replaceable styli at a reasonable cost lie the strain guage?

Is the manufacturer going to give out a warranty?

I am in the mood for a few bits and bobs for a forthcoming turntable project including an mm cartridge - I am overdue a good cartridge and phono stage - this is an intriguing all in one solution.

 

[Altanpsx]

If my memory serves me right this is not new. I think there was a optical cartridge at 80s. Maybe this one is different, i am not sure. Also, finding the needle of old optical cartridge was a problem that i remember.

 

[theophile]

If my memory serves me right this is not new. I think there was a optical cartridge at 80s. Maybe this one is different, i am not sure. Also, finding the needle of old optical cartridge was a problem that i remember.

Toshiba OPTI C 100P

Mounted on Toshiba OPTI SR 50 turntable.

 

[Charly]

Hi Peter:

Just joined Whatsbestforum. Noticed you have a video about the DS Audio Cartridge.
Being a non member it would not play for me........However after joining, it still will not play. Says Video is private
Is there a way one can play the video?

Thanks

Charly

 

[audio.bill]

Charly - The problem is with the source of the video on youtube. I copied the linked URL and tried to access it outside of this forum directly on youtube and the video is unavailable.