Launched in summer 2024, DS Audio’s new entry-level optical cartridge and equalizer borrows ‘third generation’ optical technology from the company’s flagship Grand Master model, aiming to deliver superb performance at a remarkably accessible price point. Chris Frankland puts it to the test in the latest issue of Hi-Fi Plus.
“I have long been intrigued by DS Audio’s range of optical cartridges,” writes Frankland, who then proceeds to dive ‘under the hood’ of optical cartridge technology. If you’re new to the subject, his review is a great primer on how and why the optical approach delivers such a shift in sonic performance over and above traditional moving magnets and coils.
“But you and I want to know what it sounds like,” he adds, having already listened for some time to his local hi-fi retailer “waxing lyrical” about DS Audio’s optical cartridge range.
To add to test conditions, Frankland mounts two Clearaudio Tracer tonearms onto his Clearaudio Innovation Compact turntable, enabling him to fit the DS-E3 in one and ‘a well-respected moving-coil cartridge’ in the other.
“What struck me straight away about the DS-E3 was its life, pace and openness.” In comparison, the moving-coil cartridge sounded “less insightful on drums and percussion, and lacking the sheer verve and excitement of the DS-E3.”
Moving on to a jazz track, again the DS-E3 was open and dynamic, with “a real kick and presence” on drums with well separated detail, while the moving-coil “was suitable, but it lacked the detail and energy of the DS-E3.”
As Frankland switches between different musical genres and also different levels of recording quality, the DS-E3 continues to outperform its MC rival. His conclusion: “The optical cartridge offers and more open, dynamic, pacey and detailed sound, delivering excitement and energy while capturing subtle nuances in the mix and individual musicians’ contributions.”
“The DS-E3 gave a superb performance, and I highly recommend it.”
The full review appears in issue 238 of Hi-Fi Plus.
Find out more at https://ds-audio-w.biz and track down your nearest dealer via UK distributor www.soundfowndations.co.uk
David Denyer PR | The hi-fi specialist 