DS Audio DS Grand Master Phono Stage/Equalizer
Best phono stage for audiophiles seeking ultimate precision with optical cartridges.
Experience the pinnacle of analogue audio with the DS Audio Grand Master Phono Stage/Equalizer. This exceptional unit is engineered for optical cartridges, featuring completely separate enclosures for the equalizer and power supply to ensure optimal sonic performance. Its robust design boasts massive electrolytic capacitors for deep, impactful low frequencies, alongside custom-made film capacitors and non-induction winding resistors. Three dedicated transformers provide superior power, while versatile RCA and XLR outputs, plus six selectable low-frequency cut-off points, allow for seamless system integration.
$50000.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.9
/ 5
Category Rank
1
/ 491
Best Phono Preamps
Price vs Category Average
+626%
Above average
Compatibility
Optical Cartridge
/ Optical Cartridge
Who it's for
- Collectors prioritizing reference-grade build quality and long-term reliability
- Audiophiles seeking the absolute peak of optical cartridge performance
- Listeners demanding uncompromising sonic transparency and transient speed
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking high-end performance at accessible price points
- Vinyl enthusiasts who prefer using traditional moving magnet or coil cartridges
- Listeners with limited shelf space or compact audio setups
Performance breakdown
Optical Signal Fidelity
Unrivaled precision for optical cartridges delivers pure, noise-free analogue playback.
Power Supply Isolation
Dual-chassis design eliminates interference for a remarkably clean sonic floor.
Low Frequency Authority
Massive capacitor bank provides deep, controlled, and impactful bass response.
System Integration Versatility
Multiple outputs and selectable cut-offs ensure seamless matching with high-end systems.
Build Integrity
Heavyweight construction and premium components reflect uncompromising engineering standards.
Component Precision
Custom film capacitors and non-induction resistors maximize signal transparency.
Key Specs
Compatibility
Optical Cartridge
Circuitry Type
Solid State
Input Impedance
More than 10kΩ
Output Impedance
RCA 120Ω, XLR 120Ω
Connectors
RCA terminal×3, XLR terminal×3
Dimensions
W45.2cm×H15.2cm×D48.6cm (Both units)
Weight (Equalizer unit)
25.1kg
Weight (Power unit)
29.8kg
Features
- Separate power and equalizer units
- Massive capacitor bank for deep lows
- Custom-built special film capacitors
- Non-induction winding resistors
- Triple transformer power supply
- Six selectable low-frequency cut-offs
- Versatile RCA and XLR outputs
- Next-generation analogue audio
What customers say
Owners view the DS Grand Master Phono Stage as a reference component delivering a transformative vinyl experience. The most celebrated feature is the absolute silence of the background, which allows music to emerge with startling clarity and realism. Users consistently praise its ability to reveal subtle micro-dynamics and textures in recordings. The soundstage is described as vast and three dimensional. While the cost is substantial, investors feel the sonic improvement justifies the expense, citing flawless build quality. This unit sets a new benchmark for vinyl playback fidelity, earning deep admiration for its engineering and sonic purity.
Know before you buy
No, this phono stage is exclusively designed for use with DS Audio optical cartridges. It requires the specific power delivery and signal processing unique to the optical cartridge system.
The separation of the equalizer and power supply units is designed to eliminate electromagnetic interference. By isolating the power components, the sensitive audio circuitry can operate with a lower noise floor and greater signal purity.
These settings allow you to fine-tune the bass response to match your specific speakers and room acoustics. You can adjust the roll-off point to tighten the low-end performance or compensate for room-induced bass resonance.
Yes, the unit features three sets of both RCA and XLR outputs. This provides the flexibility to integrate the phono stage into complex systems with multiple output destinations.
You will need significant space, as the system consists of two large units, each measuring 45.2cm wide and 48.6cm deep. Given the combined weight of nearly 55kg, ensure your audio rack is structurally rated to support the heavy weight of both the equalizer and the power supply.
These resistors are used to minimize parasitic inductance, which helps maintain signal integrity and phase accuracy. In a high-resolution system, this contributes to a more transparent, precise, and natural soundstage.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.