Soundsmith Sussuro MKII Cartridge

Soundsmith Sussurro MKII Cartridge Delivers Exquisite Detail and Clarity

The Soundsmith Sussurro MKII is a precision-engineered phono cartridge that embodies elite craftsmanship and innovative acoustic design. As a product of meticulous refinement by Peter Ledermann and inspired by audio legend Frank Schröder, the Sussurro MKII prioritises ultra-low mass and optimal energy transfer for truly lifelike sound. Engineered to resolve even the smallest acoustic details, this cartridge enables constant, unbroken contact with the record groove, delivering a level of auditory depth and clarity that redefines analogue playback.

Moving Iron Element Reduces Mass for Enhanced Fidelity

The Sussurro MKII’s core feature—a newly developed moving iron element—reduces the moving mass by 70%, lowering energy storage and delivering an agile, responsive sound profile. This substantial reduction in internal mass, combined with a fine-tuned damping system, minimises "stylus jitter" for cleaner, truer audio. While jitter may be more commonly associated with digital audio systems, in analogue playback it represents subtle, unwanted movements that blur sonic details. The Sussurro’s unique approach ensures steadfast stylus contact, translating to an unmatched, authentic auditory experience.

Optimal Energy Distribution and Damping for Pristine Sound

Beyond mass reduction, the Sussurro MKII's innovative energy distribution path drives mechanical energy away from the cantilever and through the cartridge body to the tonearm. This optimised energy path reduces unwanted resonances and delivers clean, focused sound. The MKII's advanced damping system further enhances stability, allowing each record to reach its full sonic potential, devoid of interference or coloration. By addressing these critical aspects, the Sussurro brings out the original nuances of each recording, delivering a playback that sounds less like a cartridge and more like pure music.

Esoteric Stylus and Ruby Cantilever Ensure Precise Detail Retrieval

Fitted with a premium Contact Line, nude stylus measuring a meticulous 0.10 mm square, the Sussurro MKII achieves optimal contact with the groove walls, retrieving the maximum amount of sonic detail. Paired with a durable ruby cantilever, this stylus delivers a finely honed response that enables remarkable accuracy in playback, maintaining high fidelity across a broad frequency range of 20 to 20,000 Hz with ±1.0 dB consistency. This pairing allows the Sussurro MKII to capture even the most subtle nuances in music, offering audiophiles a depth of clarity and aural texture that elevates each listening session.

High Channel Separation and Low Output Voltage for Superior Dynamics

The Soundsmith Sussurro MKII boasts impressive channel separation—over 34 dB at 1,000 Hz—ensuring expansive stereo imaging and robust spatial dynamics. Even at frequencies between 50 and 15,000 Hz, channel separation remains strong at >25 dB, ensuring a well-defined soundstage. Operating with a low output voltage of 0.40 mV, the Sussurro MKII pairs ideally with a preamplifier gain of 58 to 64 dB, ensuring it faithfully captures both micro- and macro-dynamic shifts for an immersive listening experience.

Tailored Compliance and Tracking Force for Seamless Groove Interaction

With a compliance of 10 µm/mN and a recommended tracking force range of 1.8 to 2.2 grams, the Sussurro MKII maintains optimal pressure on the groove, minimising wear while preserving detail. This combination enhances compatibility with a variety of tonearms and turntables, offering the user flexibility and stability across playback conditions. Available in both standard stereo and dual-coil mono (an optional upgrade), the Sussurro MKII adapts to diverse setups, catering to audiophiles who value versatility alongside performance.

Premium Construction and Compatibility

The Sussurro MKII fits standard ½” mounts and is crafted for exacting detail from cartridge body to stylus tip. The cartridge’s height is adjustable, available with or without alumina inserts for additional ground isolation and azimuth adjustments. For optimum load resistance, a setting of 470Ω or higher is recommended, and with a cartridge weight of 12.2 grams, the Sussurro MKII is compatible with a wide range of tonearms, allowing for seamless integration into high-end analogue setups.

Warranty and Handcrafted Quality

Individually handcrafted to exacting standards, the Soundsmith Sussurro MKII comes with a two-year warranty on workmanship, ensuring reliability and peace of mind. This commitment to quality craftsmanship and acoustic innovation makes the Sussurro MKII an essential addition for any audiophile seeking the highest level of sound reproduction.