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Soundsmith ES Series
PREOWNED – FULLY TESTED – COMPLETE
SOUNDSMITH Sets a New Sonic Bar with the ES Series —
“Sometimes you can judge a book by its cover.” – Peter
Ledermann.
The ES line features not only a dramatic new look, but is a
significant evolution of the DEMS system design (Dynamic Energy Management
System). All model names have been preserved, and pricing remains the same.
The new Soundsmith ES cartridge designs are a significant
advancement in cartridge performance due to their ability to direct internal
vibrational forces without reflection and disperse them properly to the tone
arm. The absence of reflections enables the stylus to stay in far greater
statistical contact with the groove walls — a critically important technical
refinement. Increased liquidity and reduced “grain,” without loss of detail are
some of the immediately discernible advantages of Soundsmith’s new ES models.
Every cartridge in the line now features the sleek new ES
body design and allows azimuth adjustment when used in tonearms that do not
permit it. The new ES body also allows an electrical isolation method for
tables that hum due to ground loops.
The upgrade is far more than cosmetic; the new shape is a
departure from the reflective and “boxy” design of many cartridges whose
internal construction contribute to uncontrolled vibrational issues adversely
effecting performance. Peter says, “Think of how singing in an open field
compares with singing in a shower.” Soundsmith has always challenged
conventions, looking deeper into nuances of cartridge design that dramatically
affect immediate and long term performance. These have included extreme
reductions of moving mass and the use of novel materials and designs. The new
ES lineup is a continuation of that research and development.
The Voice ES Series
Each one hand crafted by Peter Ledermann – Made in the USA. Rebuild
Price? $450 – Less than 20% of MSRP ! ~ The Voice features
a 2 year warranty to the original owner.
Kudos, accolades and many “Product of the Year” awards. The
pinnacle of High Output designs – from Soundsmith – of course.
Since its introduction in 2009, The Voice has won numerous
“product-of-the-year” awards and is – in Peter Ledermann’s words
–”probably the best High Output cartridge in production today.” Our
design goal was to produce the lowest moving mass high output design possible
using novel and advanced technology. Featuring a single crystal Ruby Cantilever
and our Optimized Contour Line Contact Stylus, we developed a specialized
metallurgy for the low mass moving iron system.
A cartridge that disappears. After all, if it sounds like a
“record” it’s wrong. The cartridge should bring your directly to the
performance; not stand between you and the music.
Cartridge Type
Fixed Coil
Stylus Type
Contact Line
Output
High
Available As Dual Coil Mono
Yes
Additional Specifications
Stylus: Contact Line Nude, 0.100mm SQ selected for low noise
Radius of curvature: OCL (Optimized Contour Contact Line)
Cantilever: Ruby
Recommended tracking force: 1.3 – 1.6 g (standard medium Compliance); 1.0 – 1.2 grams for special order High Compliance
Effective tip mass: 0.30 mg
Compliance: 28 μm/mN (high), 22 μm/mN (medium)
Frequency response: 20-20,000 Hz ±1.0 dB
Channel separation (stereo only): 1000 Hz >30 dB, 50-15,000 >25 dB
Channel difference:
The USD2,000 asking price for this Soundsmith Voice ES high-output cartridge strikes me as ambitious but not outrageous on the used market. New ones retail around USD2,300 based on dealer listings, and with Soundsmith's USD450 rebuild service keeping them viable long-term, clean used examples typically trade in the USD1,400-1,800 range among enthusiasts—making this a touch high unless it's barely used with box and paperwork.
Before biting, verify the stylus hours and cantilever condition, as these hand-built Moving Iron designs wear predictably but rebuilds are straightforward; insist on close-up photos of the nude diamond tip for any chipping. Also check for the original azimuth adjustment tool and headshell leads if included, plus confirmation of compliance variant (22 or 28 µm/mN) to match your arm—skip if the seller dodges specifics on age or service history.
Independent perspective — not a price guarantee. Always verify condition, accessories and provenance before purchase.
Soundsmith traces its roots to Peter Ledermann, a veteran audio engineer with over 50 years of experience, whose career spanned design roles at RAM Audio and Bozak speakers, followed by stints at IBM's T.J. Watson Research Center. Leaving corporate life in 1991, Ledermann transformed his earlier audio mentoring venture, The Soundsmith, into a full-fledged manufacturing company based in Peekskill, New York. For more than 40 years, he has served as president and chief engineer, channeling a lifelong passion for science and sound into innovative analog solutions.
The brand specializes in handcrafted phono cartridges, renowned for their moving-iron, fixed-coil designs that deliver exceptional sonic detail and value. Models like the Aida high-output cartridge exemplify Soundsmith's commitment to precision engineering, with customizable options such as ruby cantilevers. While not venturing into amplifiers, speakers, or digital gear like DACs, their focus remains laser-sharp on elevating vinyl playback through superior cartridge technology.
Positioned as a niche boutique in the high-end market, Soundsmith earns acclaim among discerning audiophiles for its artisanal quality and Peter Ledermann's personal touch, including ties to his charity DirectGrace Records. Reviews from outlets like Stereophile highlight its consistent excellence, making it a go-to for vinyl enthusiasts seeking transformative performance without mainstream hype.
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