A few comments from a new owner of the Gala Gold cart, made over first week of use, after replacing Benz LP-S MR ( Gala is ~12% more costly vs LPS ):
'I'm really enjoying this Aidas Gold! There's a kiss of midrange magic and sustain that is especially noticeable on acoustic guitars. I played "Friday Night in San Francisco" on 45 RPM and was almost mesmerized by the rich timbre and sustain of the acoustics. This is not a knock on the Benz, it did very well, but guitars seem to have more body with the Aidas.'
'It's amazing how much more treble is coming through vs when I first mounted the Aidas, the initial treble sparkle has filled out (ride cymbals decay more wholesomely) Overall, there is just a bit more detail vs the LPS, but in no way does the Aidas come across as"clinical" or boring. It's really a seductive listen One trait is that is is LESS forgiving than the Benz, which is more than fine by me. Benz tends to homogenize sound somewhat, and impart its qualities over recordings. The Gala, even with its midrange magic that deviates just a hair from neutral, does get more out of the way. The Gala is just a lovely cart.'
'With the Aidas, loading at 300 ohms sounds fantastic, just a bit of sparkle with a creamy midrange. Bass is better than the LPS, which was no slouch. Loving it!'