Soundsmith Aida MKII ES
Best high end cartridge for audiophiles seeking natural detail and warmth.
This high-performance moving iron cartridge utilizes a laser-drilled sapphire cantilever and a specialized contact line stylus to extract exceptional detail from vinyl grooves. Its advanced energy management system minimizes internal reflections, resulting in a focused, liquid soundstage that punches well above its weight class.
$1999.95
at
Music Direct
More Aida options
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking high-resolution sound without the weight of moving coils
- Vinyl enthusiasts prioritizing preservation and lightning-fast sonic accuracy
- Listeners wanting premium performance without investing in expensive step-up transformers
Who should skip it
- Casual listeners who prefer a simple plug-and-play turntable experience
- Budget-conscious owners wary of long maintenance downtimes and shipping costs
- Collectors with many worn or low-fidelity pressings in their library
Performance breakdown
Detail Retrieval
The sapphire cantilever extracts microscopic nuances from the deepest groove layers.
Tracking Precision
Low-mass design ensures the stylus stays locked even during complex passages.
Vibration Control
Dynamic energy management effectively eliminates grain for a liquid, smooth presentation.
Setup Complexity
Built-in azimuth adjustment simplifies alignment but demands a steady, experienced hand.
Soundstage Depth
Creates an expansive, three-dimensional image that places instruments with pinpoint accuracy.
System Compatibility
High-output design integrates seamlessly with most standard moving magnet phono stages.
Key Specs
Type
Moving Iron
Mounting Type
Standard 1/2 inch
Stylus Shape
Optimized Contour Line Contact
Cantilever
Laser Drilled Ruby
Tracking Force
1.3 - 1.6 g
Compliance
22 µm/mN
Frequency Response
20 - 20,000 Hz
Output Voltage
2.12 mV
Weight
6.8 grams
Impedance
680 Ohms
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