Sorry I didn't see this thread earlier. I don't post much anymore. I have been fortunate enough to hear multiple models of the DS Audio for the past two years. I have a decent vinyl over the years though nothing in comparison to some.
I moved from an Ortofon MA 90 and Tom Evans Groove SRX + to the DS Audio Grand Master and the EMM Labs. I will say that it is not night and day, but what the DS Audio does is frankly remarkable. I really hate when people say this, but its like you had the music live in your room. Records I have listened to for over 40 years are astounding, as are new recordings. I had actually thought about moving out of vinyl before I started using the DS Audio. I can't say its not just because I bought some new toy, but I doubt it.
The models do vary widely in terms of cost but I have been enormously impressed with even the very base models. They all have a certain basic quality which is simply amazing. I do really believe, having discussed it with an audio designer, that it really is a radically different technology which improves in some many areas over moving coil but I am no engineer.
G
It does have its downsides, it tends to have a lot of detail so I think if you had a very harsh or bright system it might lack warmth but its just my 2 cents worth. Enjoy what you own, but don't dismiss it.