Today the Funk Firm's Achroplat arrived. This platter will replace the Rega glass platter and Ringmat record mat. First impressions are improvements at all frequencies. The Achroplat is the same thickness as the glass platter and mat so no VTA adjustments needed.

First record I listened to was "For Duke" on M&K RealTime Records which I have listened to many time over the years. I was pleased with the tightness in the bass and definition. At one point I noticed the drums and how cohesive they sounded. I could visualize the drum kit and not just vague blurry strokes. Cello, plucked bass and electric bass are better defined and easier to follow when played softly in the mix.

Voices are natural and focused. More three dimensional and front and centered. Listening to Manhattan Transfer "Vocalise" you hear four people singing and the interplay of their voices. Before the voices would kind of blend together into a less distinct voice. Rickie Lee Jones voice is the best I have heard it listening to "Rickie Lee Jones". The sound is more alive, more exciting.

Cymbals, bells, triangles and high percussion are beautiful. It is very easy to hear the differences in cymbals. Much more air and extension to the highs.

As my system has improved and I hear higher levels of definition I find that I want to take the improvement higher. The things that I keep noticing greater improvements with each step up are the ones most important to me. The Achroplat has lifted the performance of the Rega several notches. Now it will be the SA 8001 gathering the dust.

I do have to say that the very white Achroplat between the black record and base does look like an Oreo cookie. I am not sure how to describe the feel and texture of the Achroplat but it works. Oh and thanks to Bernd for stearing me away from acrylic. Now I can think about a new motor.