Soundsmith Paua Mk II ES

The Paua Mk II ES uses a moving iron design, which allows for an exceptionally low internal moving mass. This approach provides the speed and detail often associated with high-end moving coil cartridges while maintaining the warmth and musicality that many listeners prefer in analog playback.

Azimuth adjustment allows you to fine-tune the angle of the stylus relative to the record groove. This ensures optimal channel separation and balance, which is critical for getting the most accurate soundstage and imaging from your vinyl collection.

The Paua Mk II ES features a standard 1/2-inch mount, making it compatible with the vast majority of modern tonearms. With a weight of 12.2 grams and a compliance of 10 µm/mN, it is best suited for medium-to-high mass tonearms.

Like any high-performance stylus, the nude contact line requires regular cleaning with a high-quality stylus brush and fluid to prevent dust buildup. Because of its precise shape, keeping it clean is essential to maintaining its tracking accuracy and extending the life of both your records and the stylus itself.

This system is engineered to control vibrational energy at the source, preventing it from coloring the signal. By managing these resonances, the cartridge reduces background grain and distortion, resulting in a cleaner, more liquid, and more transparent listening experience.

The recommended tracking force range is 1.7 to 1.9 grams. We suggest starting at 1.8 grams and making small adjustments within that range to find the setting that best suits your specific tonearm and listening preferences.