DS Audio elevates the sound of vinyl playback with their latest optical cartridge set. This pure analog playback system implements the new “dual-mono” generator from their flagship Grand Master cartridge, resulting in enhanced clarity, improved imaging, and greater musical involvement.
DS Audio DS 003 Optical Cartridge Set: $6,000 includes the 003 optical cartridge and phono stage/equalizer.
DS Audio DS 003 Optical Cartridge: $2,500
DS Audio DS 003 Phono Stage / Equalizer: $3,500
Incredibly low effective mass.
With the new dual-mono optical generator, the shading plate is redesigned for optimal position and agility. Using 99.9% beryllium instead of aluminum found in previous designs, the weight is significantly reduced by 50%. This is less than 1/10th of the mass found in the moving coil of a typical MC cartridge. This incredibly low effective mass promotes even greater trackability and reduced resonance, further improving the advantages of DS Audio optical cartridges.
Line contact stylus, ultra-rigid body design, and improved internal wiring.
The DS 003 cartridge features a line contact diamond stylus with an aluminum cantilever. The cartridge body is machined of A5052 aluminum and the body structure is designed for maximum rigidity. The DS 003 internal wiring is 1.6 times thicker than in the second-generation optical cartridges, reducing resistance for improved signal flow.
An improved equalizer for the DS 003 cartridge
New circuitry and casework for the 003 equalizers create the perfect mate for the 003 cartridges. Echoing the industrial design of the Grand Master eq, the 003 eq’s sculptural styling reflects the 3rd generation from DS Audio. Discrete circuitry with critical signal paths wired point-to-point assures that the 3rd generation 003 optical cartridge generator performs to its optimal level.
Compared to the DS 002 equalizer, the thickness of the circuit board has been increased from 1.6 mm to 2.0 mm for greater vibration control. For enhanced conductivity, the thickness of the copper foil on these new circuit boards has been increased from 35 μ to 70 μ and they are populated with new film capacitors. The DS 003 equalizer provides four different roll-off curves for the low-frequency range, allowing you to optimize bass response to best match your system and listening room.
DS Audio’s technology allows unmatched performance.
The DS 003 optical phono cartridge brings the 3rd generation of optical cartridge sound, as found in the Grand Master cartridge, to a new level of performance and price.
The DS 003 cartridge and 003 phono stage are sold as a set and are a perfectly matched pair. They are compatible with all DS Audio optical cartridges and equalizers providing many choices and upgrades for the ultimate in pure analog vinyl enjoyment.
