Methods and systems are provided for evaluating rock specimens subjected to high pressures and temperatures by ultrasonic evaluation utilizing various transducer enhancements. Certain embodiments contemplate configuring ultrasonic evaluation systems to provide more accurate measurements, enhanced protection of transducer elements, fewer metal interfaces between transducer elements and test specimens, and easier access to transducer elements for maintenance and replacement. Additionally, certain embodiments allow for sequential or simultaneous p-wave and s-wave measurements of a test specimen. These enhancements translate into a more accurate and efficient ultrasonic evaluation system offering higher resolution measurements.