  A Semiconductor Multiple-Compton Telescope (SMCT) is being developed to
explore the gamma-ray universe in an energy band 0.1--20 MeV, which is not well
covered by the present or near-future gamma-ray telescopes. The key feature of
the SMCT is the high energy resolution that is crucial for high angular
resolution and high background rejection capability. We have developed
prototype modules for a low noise Double-sided Silicon Strip Detector (DSSD)
system which is an essential element of the SMCT. The geometry of the DSSD is
optimized to achieve the lowest noise possible. A new front-end VLSI device
optimized for low noise operation is also developed. We report on the design
and test results of the prototype system. We have reached an energy resolution
of 1.3 keV (FWHM) for 60 keV and 122 keV at 0 degree C.
