The DS Audio optical cartridge range currently comprises six stereo models, from the DS-E3 to the Grand Master Extreme. We have received a great many enquiries from dealers and customers asking what exactly separates one model from the next.

We have therefore published the Optical Cartridge Comparison Chart, which sets out those differences on a single A4 sheet.

Across the six models, the differences come down to three structural elements:

Stylus tip — Elliptical → Line Contact → Micro Ridge
Cantilever — Aluminium → Boron → Diamond (square profile / round shank / one-piece)
Body material — Aluminium alloy → A7075 duralumin

The optical (photo-electric) generating system is common to all models. The chart also includes a brief explanation of how each of these elements affects the sound.

The colours of the model names in the chart correspond to the LED colour of each cartridge.

The PDF is freely available from the download section of the product information page, in both Japanese and English. Distributors and dealers are welcome to print it and use it as a counter reference for their customers.

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