I told myself I wouldn't write anything so soon after hooking up my new table. Frankly, my head is in the clouds. I just want to listen and not have to think too much, let alone describe everything I am hearing.

I have made a sizable jump with this upgrade. As a main deck, I was using a highly modded Pioneer PL-516. It was a good workhorse, and did a fine job. But now that I am listening to the Ariston, I realise the Pioneer is a vain attempt at analog.



The best analogy I can think of, is that someone has opened up a tap from a small drip, to a gushing stream. My gear has never sounded so good. I am feeling quite proud of my selections now, the synergy is off the chain. I am experiencing the type of sound I used to envy in other's systems, which is an exciting proposition.

Mr. Peabody, if you're reading this, you are right. The source is everything, I agree with you fully now.



Overall, the immediacy of my system has virtually doubled. This stems from detail and seperation which excels beyond what I previously had. On that note, the front running players are front and center, with a larger sense of depth behind them. Far more space around everyone for that matter. My Missions are shining at what they do best, imaging.

Aside from the technical ecstacy. I would say the next biggest plus has to be the gorgeous tone. Yes, rosy and warm as everyone knows this table to be. I also think my Golden Tube is combining to help things. Now when I say warm, don't be fooled. I am talking about thick sounding notes. Piano, guitar, sax...it doesn't matter. They all sound full, and this lends to a sense of realism that is worlds beyond.



The PL-41 arm tracks wonderfully. It's much lighter than I have experienced. It's tricky to balance, I must get a digital force guage. I would like to put a ProJect Carbon 9cc on it. My favorite combo is the Linn LP12 and the 9cc.

Right now I am listening to a South American group from the Andes. Beautiful mid tempo guitar and pan flutes. The flute players are so breathy, and it's all wonderfully audible and realistic sounding.



Anyhow, I could go on forever. I feel like I have had my head in the sand. That said, I also feel like I have arrived to a level that's beyond just respectable. I think I have compiled a system that is well rounded and complete. There's plenty here for both SS and tube fans to enjoy.