Sapphire cantilever with microridge stylus

The micro-ridge stylus of the DS Master1 features a minimum-curvature radius and is mounted to a sapphire cantilever.

The super low mass optical generator, which eliminates the need for magnets and coils as found in conventional phono cartridges, is free of ultra sonic ringing. These features allow the Master1 to reproduce every element of musical information with stunning nuances and brilliant detail, redefining flagship-level performance.

Overwhelmingly high rigidity

Advanced Material Science was employed throughout the development phase of the DS Master1. No detail was overlooked. Over the past two years, all aspects of the design and components have been re-evaluated to ensure the highest rigidity possible in the Master1 cartridge. From its Ultra-duralumin body to its amethyst power indicator window, we have carefully selected each material and component to ensure that the DS Masterl represents a phono cartridge of the highest quality.

DS Master1 Optical Cartridge

Signal output: Photo-electric Conversion

Channel separation: 25db more (1kHz)

Weight: 8.1g

Output signal level: 50mV more

Canti-lever: Sapphire

Body material: Ultra duralumin

Needle pressure: 1.6g~1.8g (1.7g is recommended)

Stylus: Micro Ridge

DS Audio's flagship, the new Master 1 capsule system demonstrates breakthroughs in both mechanical-optical design, suspension cables, sapphire cantilever, and a micro needle.

Its preamp / EQ is a dual / mono design with both balanced RCA and XLR outputs, as well as three low-frequency cut-off points.

Equalizer

Fully discrete dual-mono circuitry with three dedicated power supplies

The DS Master1’s matching preamp/equalizer features expertly designed, fully independent dual-mono analog circuits. To achieve flagship-level performance, each channel has its own dedicated power supply to deliver more than ample power with the third power supply dedicated to the cartridge LED drive system to the DS Master1 phono cartridge.

Your choice of outputs and low frequency response

The DS Master1 preamp/equalizer features three sets of RCA or XLR outputs. As well as three separate low frequency cut-off points. Output 1 is “DS Standard” single cut-off with 6db/oct at 30Hz. Output 2 is “RIAA Standard” double cut-off with 6db/octave 50.5Hz and 6db/octave at 30Hz. Output 3 is “RIAA Sub-sonic” triple cut-off with 6db/octave 50.5Hz, 6db/octave at 30Hz, and 12db/octave at 25Hz. Each low frequency contour is accessed by its own dedicated single-ended RCA or balanced XLR output for a total of six sets of dual-mono outputs.

Massive 24 kilogram/ 53 pound unit weight

Massive 24 kilogram / 53 pound unit weight

Its robust weight is the result of the twelve 120K μf electrolytic capacitors and three transformers used in the DS Master1 preamp/equalizer. To achieve the lowest possible impedance, a pure copper bus-bar provide connection between the bank of capacitors.

Additional Information:

Output Voltage: 500mV

Stylus shape: Micro-ridge

Internal ohms: N/A

Loading range: N/A

Weight: 24.8.kg

Tracking: 1.6 – 1.8g (1.7g recommended)