SoundSmith Aida
Best high performance upgrade for serious vinyl enthusiasts seeking refined detail.
This cartridge extracts startling detail from your vinyl collection by pairing a rigid sapphire cantilever with an ultra-light stylus. It delivers the nuanced, high-fidelity sound typically reserved for complex, low-output setups, but manages to do so with the convenience of a standard moving magnet preamp.
$1999.95
at
Sound Approach
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking nuanced clarity without needing a step-up transformer.
- Long-term listeners prioritizing sustainable maintenance and high-end performance.
- Vinyl enthusiasts wanting premium sound through a standard MM preamp.
Who should skip it
- Casual listeners who prefer a simple plug-and-play cartridge installation.
- Budget-conscious hobbyists looking for an affordable entry-level audio upgrade.
- Owners of heavy vintage tonearms requiring a low-compliance cartridge match.
Performance breakdown
High-Frequency Detail
The sapphire cantilever extracts nuanced textures often lost in standard grooves.
Tracking Precision
Contact line stylus geometry ensures flawless navigation of complex musical passages.
System Compatibility
High-output design pairs effortlessly with standard moving magnet phono stages.
Transient Response
Ultra-low tip mass delivers lightning-fast attacks and exceptional sonic clarity.
Soundstage Depth
Sophisticated damping creates an immersive, expansive, and highly focused listening environment.
Setup Simplicity
Standard mounting and output levels make installation straightforward for most enthusiasts.
Key Specs
Cartridge Type
Moving Magnet (MM)
Output Voltage
2.12 mV
Weight
9.2 grams (0.32 ounces)
Stylus
Selected Contact Line Nude, 0.100mm SQ
Cantilever
Laser Drilled Sapphire
Tracking Force
1.3 gm to 1.6 gm
Effective Tip Mass
0.30 mg
Compliance
22 µm/mN
Frequency Response
20-20,000 Hz ± 2.5 dB
Load Resistance
≥ 47 kohms
Know before you buy
Still have a question?
Ask Metto anything about the SoundSmith Aida before you decide.
