Soundsmith The Voice ES Series Hand-Made High-Output Cartridge
Best high-output cartridge for audiophiles seeking reference-level sonic transparency.
Experience unparalleled sonic transparency with this meticulously hand-made, high-output phono cartridge. Designed for exceptional dynamics and imaging, it delivers an impressive sound scale. An innovative v-shaped cantilever extension provides robust protection for the stylus, enhancing durability. This component offers an artistic yet accessible path to high-performance audio, refining your turntable's listening experience with its refined approach to sound reproduction.
$2999.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
231
/ 1996
#231 in Turntable Accessories
Price vs Category Average
+81%
Above average
Type
Phono Cartridge
/ Phono Cartridge
Who it's for
- Long-term owners prioritizing sustainable value and product longevity
- Audiophiles seeking precise, nuanced, and highly detailed musical reproduction
- Vinyl enthusiasts using standard moving magnet phono preamplifiers
Who should skip it
- Listeners needing immediate stylus replacement without factory downtime
- Budget-conscious listeners preferring affordable, mass-produced cartridge options
- Novice users wanting a simple, plug-and-play tonearm setup
Performance breakdown
Sonic Transparency
Reveals micro-details and textures often lost in standard playback chains.
Dynamic Range
Effortlessly captures the explosive shifts between quiet passages and orchestral peaks.
Build Integrity
Hand-crafted precision ensures long-term reliability for the discerning vinyl enthusiast.
Stylus Protection
Innovative cantilever design guards against accidental damage during routine handling.
Imaging Accuracy
Creates a wide, holographic soundstage with pinpoint instrument placement.
System Compatibility
High-output design integrates seamlessly with most standard phono preamplifiers.
Key Specs
Type
Phono Cartridge
Series
ES Series
Design Focus
High transparency
Cantilever Protection
V-shaped extension
Output Type
High-Output
Model Name
The Voice
Stylus Shape
Elliptical
Mounting Type
Standard 1/2 Inch
Know before you buy
High-output cartridges are designed to work with standard moving magnet (MM) phono stages. This means you can achieve reference-level performance without needing a specialized, high-gain moving coil (MC) preamp.
The v-shaped extension acts as a physical guard for the stylus, helping to prevent accidental damage during handling or cueing. It provides an extra layer of security for the delicate cantilever without interfering with playback performance.
Yes, The Voice uses a standard 1/2-inch mounting configuration, making it compatible with the vast majority of modern and vintage tonearms.
This cartridge is engineered for transparency and scale. You can expect a wide, open soundstage with precise imaging that prioritizes clarity and dynamic accuracy over artificial coloration.
Like any high-performance cartridge, precise alignment is essential to extract the best sound. Because of its elliptical shape, ensuring the cartridge is correctly squared in the headshell and the tracking force is set according to the manufacturer's specs will ensure optimal tracking and reduced record wear.
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