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A Soundsmith Denon dl103 retip question

I have been reading a lot about this mod and the improvements that are attained

E.g. - the general consensus of the Soundsmith ruby retip is a more detailed playback as the main benefit.

However, replacing the cantilever also replaces the tip with one of a different profile.

So my question is - are there a downside to this mod?

E.g.
- can microscopic particles of dirt in the groove become more audible making older albums sound worse?
- will a stiffer stylus make skipping due to scratches more of an issue

Anyone out there notice any negative side to this mod

Thanks
williewonka

Showing 1 response by emorrisiv

emorrisiv
313 posts
 
I own a wood bodied 103. The additional mass and the lack of plastic body resonance (not to mention the threaded screw mounts) make the 103 a joy, but be aware that a heavy arm is a must for good tracking.

I also own a SoundSmith 103 Gold. This too has a wood body but also has the optimized line contact ruby cantilever. It also has the suspension reworked to be a lot more compliant and thus much easier to optimize with a modern arm.
This is a real giant killer: great tone and detailed.
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