DS Audio DS 002

DS Audio DS-002 Optical Cartridge + Equaliser A unique analogue combination for those who wish to experience a fundamentally different approach to vinyl playback. The DS Audio DS-002 is not a traditional MM or MC cartridge, but utilises DS Audio’s optical tracking technology. Instead of magnets and coils, the movement of the stylus is detected optically. The major advantage of this is the very low moving mass and the absence of the magnetic forces that come into play with conventional cartridges. The result is a strikingly fast, open and direct sound, with a wealth of detail from the groove without becoming overly analytical. It is, in particular, the calmness, transparency and spatial positioning that make the DS-002 system so special. This unit comes with the matching DS Audio DS-002 Equaliser. This is essential for the optical cartridge: the equaliser provides both the power supply for the cartridge and the necessary equalisation and amplification. A separate MM or MC phono stage is therefore not required. Technical Specifications The DS-002 features an aluminium cantilever and a Shibata stylus. The optical sensor is positioned close to the stylus tip, and the cantilever utilises DS Audio’s wire-suspension construction. This is designed to transmit the stylus’s movement to the optical detection system as accurately as possible. The recommended tracking force is 1.7 grams, with a specified range of 1.6 to 1.8 grams. Complete DS Audio system The cartridge and equaliser are designed as a single system. From the turntable, the DS-002 cartridge is connected directly to the equaliser, after which the line signal can be routed to a preamplifier or integrated amplifier. A great opportunity to familiarise yourself with DS Audio’s optical cartridge technology without having to look straight at their current top-of-the-range models.