The DS Audio DS-W3 System is an advanced optical cartridge and dedicated phono equalizer set. The optical cartridge features channel-independent LEDs and photo-detectors—boosting output voltage to 70mV for a lower noise floor—paired with an ultra-lightweight 99.9% pure beryllium shading plate, a boron cantilever, and a line-contact stylus housed in a rigid aluminium body. The matching equalizer features a upgraded 2.0mm printed circuit board with 70µ thick copper foil, hand-assembled Japanese circuitry with twisted component leads, balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA outputs, and four selectable low-frequency cutoff profiles for system optimization.
| Input impedance | viac ako 120 Ω |
|---|---|
| Weight | 13,5 kg |
| Output Voltage | 500 mV (1 kHz) |
| Dimensions | Š 45 cm × V 12 cm × H 43,5 cm |
| Pre amp input impedance | viac ako 10 kΩ |
| Channel separation | viac ako 27 dB (1 kHz) |
| Signal output | Fotoelektrický prevod (Photo-electric Conversion) |
| Output signal level | viac ako 70 mV |
| Body material | Hliník (Aluminum) |
| Stylus | Line contact |
| Cantilever | Bór (Boron) |
| Input terminal | 2× RCA terminál, 2× XLR terminál |
DS Audio: Revolutionary Optical Technology Serving Analogue Sound
Japanese manufacturer DS Audio is a pioneer in modern vinyl playback technology. Operating as a specialized division of Digital Stream Corporation, the company develops optical phono cartridges and matching equalizers. Unlike traditional MM and MC designs that generate signal through moving magnets or coils within a magnetic field, DS Audio optical cartridges capture stylus movement by detecting changes in shadow and light intensity via infrared LEDs and photodetectors. Eliminating magnetic resistance allows the stylus to move smoothly, freely, and with precision within the record groove. The ultra-low moving mass results in significant noise reduction, zero magnetic distortion, and a pure analog signal with vast dynamic range.
Operating on an amplitude-proportional principle, DS Audio optical technology achieves an exceptional signal-to-noise ratio, authoritative bass control, and detailed sound. The product portfolio spans from accessible entry systems to the flagship Grand Master reference setup. Alongside optical cartridges, DS Audio offers dedicated phono equalizers and innovative accessories, such as static-neutralizing ionizers and stylus cleaners. DS Audio products are crafted for audiophiles and vinyl enthusiasts seeking ultimate transparency, dynamic impact, and technological excellence in analogue reproduction. At Dream Audio, we proudly present these engineering achievements that elevate vinyl listening into a new era.
Manufacturer information (GPSR)
Manufacturer
Digital Stream Corporation
4-50-40, Kamitsuruma-Honcho, Minami-ku, Sagamihara Kanagawa, 252-0318 Japan
support1@ds-audio.biz