Soundsmith

A History of SoundSmith Cartridges

SoundSmith, a leading manufacturer of high-quality phono cartridges, has its roots in the late 1970s. Over the years, the company has built a strong reputation for producing innovative and reliable cartridges that cater to the needs of audiophiles and vinyl enthusiasts. In this article, we will explore the history of SoundSmith cartridges, tracing their evolution from their humble beginnings to their current status as industry leaders.

The Early Years

SoundSmith was founded in 1978 by Peter Ledermann, a former engineer at the world-renowned audio company, B&O (Bang & Olufsen). Ledermann's passion for audio technology and his desire to create high-quality phono cartridges led him to establish SoundSmith. The company started as a small workshop, where Ledermann and his team of engineers focused on developing and manufacturing phono cartridges for various turntable manufacturers.

The 1980s and 1990s: Expansion and Innovation

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, SoundSmith continued to grow and expand its product line. The company introduced several innovative cartridge designs, including the Strain Gauge, which utilized a unique sensing system to measure stylus movement. This design allowed for more accurate and detailed reproduction of the audio signal, earning SoundSmith a reputation for producing high-quality cartridges.

During this period, SoundSmith also began to develop its own line of turntables and tonearms, further solidifying its position as a leading manufacturer of audio equipment.

The 2000s: A New Era of Cartridge Design

In the early 2000s, SoundSmith introduced the Hyperion cartridge, which featured a revolutionary "cactus spine" cantilever design. The cactus spine, sourced from the Arizona desert, provided exceptional rigidity and low mass, resulting in improved tracking and reduced distortion.

This innovative design garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, and it marked a turning point for SoundSmith. The company shifted its focus towards producing high-end cartridges, catering to the demands of audiophiles and vinyl enthusiasts seeking the best possible sound reproduction.

The Present Day: A Diverse and Comprehensive Product Line

Today, SoundSmith offers a wide range of phono cartridges, from entry-level models to high-end designs, ensuring that there is a SoundSmith cartridge for every budget and preference. Some of their most popular cartridges include:

The Aida: A high-output moving iron design that delivers exceptional detail and dynamics.

The Paua: A low-output moving iron cartridge with a unique "variable-reluctance" design, offering a smooth and natural sound.

The Sussurro: A low-output moving iron cartridge designed specifically for low-mass tonearms, providing excellent tracking and minimal distortion.

Conclusion

SoundSmith continues to innovate and push the boundaries of cartridge design, constantly seeking ways to improve upon its already impressive products. With a commitment to quality and a passion for audio excellence, SoundSmith has earned its place as one of the most respected and trusted names in the world of phono cartridges.

For More Info Contact:

For more information on the ranges of SoundSmith Cartridges or If you have any questions or queries or would like to have a demonstration and listen to your favourite vinyl and your favourite tracks in our demonstration rooms, please get in touch with our team of experts on 02476 631707 or 02476 525200 or use our Contact Form. We would love to hear from you.

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