DS Audio unveils entry-level optical cartridge

Forget magnets and coils.

Based on its high-end Master 1 and DS-W1 models, DS Audio has announced an entry-level optical cartridge, the DS 002. The DS 002 retails for £4800 for the cartridge and equaliser, compared with £6000 for the DS-W1.

Read next: The 8 best turntable cartridges to achieve ultimate sound quality

The main difference between the models is the materials with the DS 002 using an aluminium chassis and cantilever, What Hi-Fi notes.

As the name suggests, optical cartridges use a beam of light rather than electromagnetic induction to detect cantilever movement. According to DS Audio, this makes the cartridge lighter and also eliminates friction associated with magnets and coils, which leads to better performance.

The DS 002 is available now from DS Audio.