Lets see pictures of your Deck

[frenchmon]

Any body want to be first? Lets see pictures of your TT!

[GMichael]

My TT is in the garage covered in 1/4" of dust.

[frenchmon]

thats ok...just go out and snap one with your cell and post it here. It cant be any worse that some of the stuff I've seen at Audiokarma or Vinylengine....what kind is it?

[Hyfi]

I was looking for pics of the deck in my yard...until I read the post.

Isn't a Deck for Tapes and Table for Turntable? Never heard a TT called a Deck.

[basite]

Ok I'll play:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4118/4854331486_ca408567fb_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4100/4853715063_db45032370_b.jpg

all DIY, based on a Lenco L75, with little of it remaining :D

new photo's coming soon, I no longer have the SME arm, now replaced by my Rega RB301, with modded wiring.

Also: I am planning to rebuild the tt, slightly different design, some new ideas too...

Keep them spinning,
Bert.

[frenchmon]

I was looking for pics of the deck in my yard...until I read the post.

Isn't a Deck for Tapes and Table for Turntable? Never heard a TT called a Deck.

Your like me...you must be around the 50 year old mark or just under or over. I never heard that either until I heard PoppaC call it that.

And when did records and albums and 45's become vinyl? When I was a kid it was albums, records, 45's and turntables...must be getting old.

So you got a picture of your deck..ahh i mean turntable?

[Hyfi]

Your like me...you must be around the 50 year old mark or just under. I never heard that either until I heard PoppaC call it that.

And when did records and albums and 45's become vinyl? When I was a kid it was albums, records, 45's and turntables...must be getting old.

LOL, I'll be 50 in december...good call

I do still have a nice Onkyo Cassette Deck

[frenchmon]

Ok I'll play:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4118/4854331486_ca408567fb_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4100/4853715063_db45032370_b.jpg

all DIY, based on a Lenco L75, with little of it remaining :D

new photo's coming soon, I no longer have the SME arm, now replaced by my Rega RB301, with modded wiring.

Also: I am planning to rebuild the tt, slightly different design, some new ideas too...

Keep them spinning,
Bert.

I now see why you are a happy 20 year old...Is the Rega arm better for this deck ...ahh turnrable than the SME arm?

[GMichael]

thats ok...just go out and snap one with your cell and post it here. It cant be any worse that some of the stuff I've seen at Audiokarma or Vinylengine....what kind is it?

It's an old asz Technics. Nothing special. I may have to dig it out from under my tape deck.

[Jack in Wilmington]

Hey Frenchie, We want to see your 7.1

8149

8150

Crap didn't Work again

[frenchmon]

Oh I will...I just want others to go before I do, seeing I started the thread.. We got lots of guys here with turntables (decks for you younger guys) So lets see some of them guys?

[RGA]

Well I have not taken a picture of my specific table but here it is.

Audio Note TT2 dual motor turntable with Arm 3 and IQ3. It's the most expensive piece of gear in my system.

It also came in a natural wood look here http://www.mostlyaudio.com/TT2Review.html

Incidentally, the TT1 is the one motor version and is quite affordable and truly fantastic. It hangs in easily with upper end Linn LP12 and I liked it better than the Clearaudio Emotion and Roksan Radius 5 and the Oracle Delphi all of which cost at least twice as much. http://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/viewpoint/1204/joeaudiophile4.htm

[frenchmon]

Well I have not taken a picture of my specific table but here it is.

Audio Note TT2 dual motor turntable with Arm 3 and IQ3. It's the most expensive piece of gear in my system.

It also came in a natural wood look here http://www.mostlyaudio.com/TT2Review.html

Incidentally, the TT1 is the one motor version and is quite affordable and truly fantastic. It hangs in easily with upper end Linn LP12 and I liked it better than the Clearaudio Emotion and Roksan Radius 5 and the Oracle Delphi all of which cost at least twice as much. http://www.enjoythemusic.com/magazine/viewpoint/1204/joeaudiophile4.htm

Nice RGA! Dual motors...man thats a feature I have never heard of on a TT. I thought they where just dual pullys. How old is that model? It has that look like the Linns and the sorts. And why would they need to modify the Rega arm? That arm is good the way it is...at least I thought.

[02audionoob]

From the rubber dot experiment...no mat...

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5225/5752396707_e3d49a68b0_z.jpg

[frenchmon]

From the rubber dot experiment...no mat...

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5225/5752396707_e3d49a68b0_z.jpg

So how does that work out? Does it sound any better? Kinda reminds me of how MH put the little lifters on the edge of there cork matt. BTW I cant see them.

[02audionoob]

The dots are the little blurred dashes. This photo was taken in low light, so they moved pretty far during the photo, thus making long streaks. The extra grip they provide seems to translate into a bit of grip on the sound. I think it sort of cleans up lower frequencies a tiny bit. But it also adds a touch of bass, something on which I had mixed emotions.

I did some comparisons both ways, thinking I could leave dots ready to use by simply flipping the platter. But it wasn't that easy in the end. I had to add a 3rd shim with the dots to get the tracking angle the same as it was with the felt mat and 2 shims and thus make for a meaningful comparison.

[frenchmon]

The dots are the little blurred dashes. This photo was taken in low light, so they moved pretty far during the photo, thus making long streaks. The extra grip they provide seems to translate into a bit of grip on the sound. I think it sort of cleans up lower frequencies a tiny bit. But it also adds a touch of bass, something on which I had mixed emotions.

I did some comparisons both ways, thinking I could leave dots ready to use by simply flipping the platter. But it wasn't that easy in the end. I had to add a 3rd shim with the dots to get the tracking angle the same as it was with the felt mat and 2 shims and thus make for a meaningful comparison.

Where you having problems with your mat? I've got that felt mat which I don't like. I thought about making a mat out of an old suede coat I have but I think I will purchase a mat. I've tried it without a mat on the acrylic platter but you have to be very careful taking it off the platter or the album can get scratched if one does not like to turn off the table to turn over the album like me. Any way your I deal sounds like a good one...love to hear the end result of your study.

[02audionoob]

Where you having problems with your mat? I've got that felt mat which I don't like. I thought about making a mat out of an old suede coat I have but I think I will purchase a mat. I've tried it without a mat on the acrylic platter but you have to be very careful taking it off the platter or the album can get scratched if one does not like to turn off the table to turn over the album like me. Any way your I deal sounds like a good one...love to hear the end result of your study.

I made a mat out of padded shelf liner and it's currently on my wife's Debut III. It seems to sound a little cleaner than the felt when used on the steel platter. With the glass platter on my P5, I didn't have any problem with it...just experimenting. I wanted to know how the sound would change with the record practically adhered to the platter. It did change, but it's hard to say if it was truly better. And besides, with the record stuck down it was stopping the platter when I removed the record.

I didn't get too deep into the comparison largely because of the tracking angle issue. But what I heard was somewhat similar to the effect of adding tracking force, at least on the low end. But adding tracking force can compromise the highs; and the rubber dots didn't really do that. The only idea I can come up with on the issue is that during the play of low frequencies there might be a tiny bit of slippage that occurs on the felt mat but not on the rubber dots. In that respect, it sounds like the effect of a clamp or weight...and maybe that's approximately the difference I heard.

[basite]

I now see why you are a happy 20 year old...Is the Rega arm better for this deck ...ahh turnrable than the SME arm?

yes, you could say that's why I'm a happy 20 year old (well, it's one of the reasons...)

The rega certainly isn't better, but I borrowed the SME (for one and a half year), because the owner (a friend) didn't need it, and he offered it to me. But he had a new turntable project, and thus back it went :frown5:

anyhow, still more than happy, I'm going to attempt building a tonearm myself soon, see what I could do, and build another turntable, to perfect this one. The Jelco arm is used most here, it's the best arm I have, definitely up to level with the SME...

cartridges are a Denon DL103, in a Midas body, and a Denon DL304.

Keep them spinning,
Bert.

[Feanor]

Nahhh ... you don't really want to see my deck.

But since you asked: my Technics SL-D2 with Denon DL-110. The pictured Cambridge phono has been replace by a luxurious TCC TC-750. See pics.

I haven't used it in a couple of years at least.

http://gallery.audioreview.com/data/audio//500/System07Jan-analog_1_.jpg

http://gallery.audioreview.com/data/audio//500/TC-750sil400.jpeg

[frenchmon]

Nahhh ... you don't really want to see my deck.

But since you asked: my Technics SL-D2 with Denon DL-110. The pictured Cambridge phono has been replace by a luxurious TCC TC-750. See pics.

I haven't used it in a couple of years at least.
]

Yes we do....not bad. But seeing you dont use it, just pack it up and send it to me...along with all your albums.:3: I can make it rock!

[Feanor]

Yes we do....not bad. But seeing you dont use it, just pack it up and send it to me...along with all your albums.:3: I can make it rock!
Will you pay the shipping? :D

[frenchmon]

Will you pay the shipping? :D

Lets see...you live in Canada? How many albums we talking....and weight?

[JohnMichael]

I posted new pictures in my gallery but have not been able to download to this thread. I will try again. Of course it has been in other threads.

[RGA]

Nice RGA! Dual motors...man thats a feature I have never heard of on a TT. I thought they where just dual pullys. How old is that model? It has that look like the Linns and the sorts. And why would they need to modify the Rega arm? That arm is good the way it is...at least I thought.

Yes it is dual pulley and dual motor - each motor controls each pulley. There is a new AN arm - they have replaced the Rega arm with what some think is a Helious but the entire arm is one piece cast alluminum or something. A lot of buzz on the UK forums about great the new arms are and for very reasonable prices.

[Feanor]

Lets see...you live in Canada? How many albums we talking....and weight?
Seriously, Frenchmon ... I have about 150 Classical LPs and about 50 old-time folk, folk-rock, and mainstream rock albums. All are in VG - Ex condition. I'm willing to sell them for $2 each provided you buy all of whichever category. The weight of an album is about 0.5 lb. PM or email me if you'd like further details. :22:

[frenchmon]

Seriously, Frenchmon ... I have about 150 Classical LPs and about 50 old-time folk, folk-rock, and mainstream rock albums. All are in VG - Ex condition. I'm willing to sell them for $2 each provided you buy all of whichever category. The weight of an album is about 0.5 lb. PM or email me if you'd like further details. :22:

No Jazz? The cost plus shipping would be to much for me. can you sell them local? That might be the best way to go for you if you are really looking to unload them. I would just get a modern TT and sit back and listen to the cohesiveness of the sound which I cant hear in CD if I where you....but that's a moot point to you seeing you say you suffer from hearing loss. Sorry.

[RGA]

Frenchmon

Now you made me go and look up the new AN tonearms. They seem to be based on the Helius Scorpio III - well a little bit. The entire thing is made from "a single piece of machined aluminium for the one piece arm tube/headshell, which is internally tapered to keep the arm both stiff and light. Another solid block of aluminium is machined to make the bearing housing which contains ‘captured unipivot’ bearings.../... uses the same geometry and fixings as Rega arms, so can be fitted to almost any deck, and thanks to a wonderfully simple and effective collar (pictured below), vta can easily and repeatedly be adjusted in tiny increments (there’s a clear marking for every 0.25mm increment).

What I am reading extremely positive results out of the UK from some reviewers and beta testers who are having difficulty finding faults with them - although it starts £654 for the entry level version and up to £1,265 for the top model. These folks are saying they are very affordable prices for the tech involved. I asked for one for review - but per usual the wait list is ridiculous - several months at the very earliest.

And they also brought out an external motor for the TT2 which controls speed changes. It's a made to order device so it will cost a little too much. Strictly for those with extra cash. They also appear to be bringing out 2-3 more turntables in the between prices from the TT2 to the ridiculous TT3 at ~$100k. They need something to fill the middle price points I am eager to see what they come up with.

[frenchmon]

I posted new pictures in my gallery but have not been able to download to this thread. I will try again. Of course it has been in other threads.


Thanks JM.... BTW...I enjoy your postings...especially those that have to do with turntables...

[frenchmon]

Frenchmon

Now you made me go and look up the new AN tonearms. They seem to be based on the Helius Scorpio III - well a little bit. The entire thing is made from "a single piece of machined aluminium for the one piece arm tube/headshell, which is internally tapered to keep the arm both stiff and light. Another solid block of aluminium is machined to make the bearing housing which contains ‘captured unipivot’ bearings.../... uses the same geometry and fixings as Rega arms, so can be fitted to almost any deck, and thanks to a wonderfully simple and effective collar (pictured below), vta can easily and repeatedly be adjusted in tiny increments (there’s a clear marking for every 0.25mm increment).

What I am reading extremely positive results out of the UK from some reviewers and beta testers who are having difficulty finding faults with them - although it starts £654 for the entry level version and up to £1,265 for the top model. These folks are saying they are very affordable prices for the tech involved. I asked for one for review - but per usual the wait list is ridiculous - several months at the very earliest.

And they also brought out an external motor for the TT2 which controls speed changes. It's a made to order device so it will cost a little too much. Strictly for those with extra cash. They also appear to be bringing out 2-3 more turntables in the between prices from the TT2 to the ridiculous TT3 at ~$100k. They need something to fill the middle price points I am eager to see what they come up with.

Nice looking modified arm there...what advantages of aluminium over carbon fiber...or is it preference?

Arm still looks like its out of the Rega mold....

[Feanor]

No Jazz? The cost plus shipping would be to much for me. can you sell them local? That might be the best way to go for you if you are really looking to unload them. I would just get a modern TT and sit back and listen to the cohesiveness of the sound which I cant hear in CD if I where you....but that's a moot point to you seeing you say you suffer from hearing loss. Sorry.
Thanks for you sympathy re. my hear. Fortunately it's limited to quite high frequencies, 10 kH and above.

I've never had the problem some people have with CD sound. Nor have I ever enjoyed the rituals around handling LPs; these days I have basically everything on computer and just point and click to listen to what I want. What's more, I'm mainly interested in Classical music and new stuff is pretty much only available on CD or SACD.

[frenchmon]

Thanks for you sympathy re. my hear. Fortunately it's limited to quite high frequencies, 10 kH and above.

I've never had the problem some people have with CD sound. Nor have I ever enjoyed the rituals around handling LPs; these days I have basically everything on computer and just point and click to listen to what I want. What's more, I'm mainly interested in Classical music and new stuff is pretty much only available on CD or SACD.

What speaker do you use?? Normally one needs full range speakers for classical...correct?

[frenchmon]

http://www.homebuilthifi.com/project/202

http://www.homebuilthifi.com/vinyl

http://www.homebuilthifi.com/images/projects/202/Harward_Audio_0434.jpg

http://www.homebuilthifi.com/images/projects/202/Harward_Audio_063.jpg

http://www.homebuilthifi.com/images/projects/202/Harward_Audio_028.jpg

http://www.homebuilthifi.com/images/projects/202/Harward_Audio_100.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v138/Gutty/Harward%20Audio/HarwardAudio063.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v138/Gutty/Harward%20Audio/HarwardAudio028.jpg

[Feanor]

What speaker do you use?? Normally one needs full range speakers for classical...correct?
Yes one does. Although apart from pipe organ, a speaker good to 40 Hz should work very well.

My speakers? Check my signature, below, where all is revealed. Note that my vinyl stuff, (Technics, etc.), isn't shown: it used to be, but since I haven't listened in a couple of years, I removed it.

[poppachubby]

Check my sig...

[frenchmon]

Check my sig...

Pops..how that cart sounding now that you've had it and broken it in? What characteristics does it have? top end extended? Mids rich? Not to laid back? How is it?

[frenchmon]

This really is a nice table. Its really smooth in its presentation. I cant say its lacking in anything. If I could say anything negative about it, it needs a little chrome on it to break up the totally black look. But if it sounds this good now, its going to be great once I add new cables, Cart, and perhaps a new platform for it. Also with a new phono amp, and preamp. I think it was noob who said build around it. And thats what I set out to do...I have a vinyl copy and CD copy of Miles "kind of Blue". Its two totally different presentations to my ears. The vinyl has a more smooth, liquid sound that seems to just presents it self really smooth like rolling with fluid through the speakers, which I cant say for the presentation of the CD, which is also very good, but just a different presentation to my ears...

http://img219.imageshack.us/img219/1609/pict0171i.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/219/pict0171i.jpg/)

Uploaded with ImageShack.us (http://imageshack.us)

[02audionoob]

Got this retip job back from Soundsmith, yesterday. Figured it deserved a spot in frenchmon's photo thread, even though it might not get a turn on the P5 for a little while yet.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3056/5857959935_8d1494eeae_b.jpg

[frenchmon]

Nice....I'll tell you what. Send it to me and I will make sure it gets a turn....that way I can tell you how it sounds and you wont have to wait.:devil:

[Poultrygeist]

I'm so old I thought this thread was about tape decks. Back in the day folks used their deck to record from their TT.

[frenchmon]

I'm so old I thought this thread was about tape decks. Back in the day folks used their deck to record from their TT.


LOL! Read positing number 4 in this thread.

[Glen B]

I'm past the half-century mark and understood "deck" to also mean turntable.

My "deck" since 1988, Denon DP-59L, modified to accept any RCA ICs. The RCA jacks are Furutech, with pure copper contacts, and ground post is Vampire Wire.

[JohnMichael]

Got this retip job back from Soundsmith, yesterday. Figured it deserved a spot in frenchmon's photo thread, even though it might not get a turn on the P5 for a little while yet.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3056/5857959935_8d1494eeae_b.jpg



Nice cartridge. Nice photograph and my next lens is the 60mm macro Canon ES lens for my 50D. I have been thinking about sending the MC Gold to Soundsmith for a better stylus. When you do install it please let us know if you hear an improvement. My options are trading in the Gold for a new one or having it retipped.

[frenchmon]

JM you got a Canon 50d? sweet! So what is Soundsmith?? a recycle shop for used carts???

[frenchmon]

Glen B thats a nice TT ( as the youngins say...Deck) looks like its got some kinda digital read-out...is that right? And have you seen that new anniversary model Denon has out? How do you think yours will stack up to that? Is it better you think?

[02audionoob]

I've been going without my dustcover, mostly because I find a scarf more convenient. But I decided to put it on, just now. I suppose it looks better than a scarf.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5311/5892566627_d5e8c385de_z.jpg

[basite]

I'm past the half-century mark and understood "deck" to also mean turntable.

My "deck" since 1988, Denon DP-59L, modified to accept any RCA ICs. The RCA jacks are Furutech, with pure copper contacts, and ground post is Vampire Wire.

That is a NICE denon. always wanted to have one of these big denon DD's...

thanks for posting! :)

@frenchmon:
Soundsmith is a company that repairs, upgrades or replaces cantilevers, styluses, ...
and the new denon doesn't quite "do" it for me, it's definitely a good tt, but far less sophisticated as their "old" ones. And, I wonder where their minds where at when they decided to put on a (relatively low end) audio technica tonearm.

[frenchmon]

That is a NICE denon. always wanted to have one of these big denon DD's...

thanks for posting! :)

@frenchmon:
Soundsmith is a company that repairs, upgrades or replaces cantilevers, styluses, ...
and the new denon doesn't quite "do" it for me, it's definitely a good tt, but far less sophisticated as their "old" ones. And, I wonder where their minds where at when they decided to put on a (relatively low end) audio technica tonearm.

http://www.mademansion.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/denon-dp-a100-turntable.jpg

http://usr.audioasylum.com/images/3/36969/Mando_s_Pics_0071.jpg

http://forums.audioreview.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=8264&stc=1&d=1309547036

So its not as good as Glens nor the Denon in the middle the DP 47F ? Sure is pretty!

[JohnMichael]

JM you got a Canon 50d? sweet! So what is Soundsmith?? a recycle shop for used carts???


Soundsmith is a cartridge manufacturer and can upgrade cartridges. They make a strain gauge cartridge and have reverse engineered the B&O micro cross cartridges. He has kept the B&O tables functional with his cartridges. You can also buy a cartridge based on the cartridges in standard mount for standard tonearms.

What I like is when I send in the Benz MC Gold I will have a choice of stylus shapes and cantilever material based on what I can afford at the time.

[Glen B]

Glen B thats a nice TT ( as the youngins say...Deck) looks like its got some kinda digital read-out...is that right?
Yes, it displays the selected speed and pitch, since the TT has variable pitch control.


And have you seen that new anniversary model Denon has out? How do you think yours will stack up to that? Is it better you think?
I've seen the anniversary model. The finish is very nice, but I have no idea how it will stack up. It has an s-shaped arm. The DP59L has the option of installing straight and s-shaped arms. I've tried both and preferred the straight arm.

[frenchmon]

Yes, it displays the selected speed and pitch, since the TT has variable pitch control.


I've seen the anniversary model. The finish is very nice, but I have no idea how it will stack up. It has an s-shaped arm. The DP59L has the option of installing straight and s-shaped arms. I've tried both and preferred the straight arm.

Have you seen basite's remarks? He seems to think you have the better one of the two. The new one seems to have a AT arm....which I suppose is a bad thing.

[frenchmon]

Thanks fellas for the info on Soundsmith.

[frenchmon]

noob..my dealer is getting me a loaner phono cable from A+...It should be able to best the stock mmf-7.1 cable. Will let you know.

[jrhymeammo]

Nice cartridge. Nice photograph and my next lens is the 60mm macro Canon ES lens for my 50D. I have been thinking about sending the MC Gold to Soundsmith for a better stylus. When you do install it please let us know if you hear an improvement. My options are trading in the Gold for a new one or having it retipped.

That is a nice picture. I've been looking at a macro lens as well, but haven't been able to decide which one to get...
Until then, this is the best I can do with a zoom lens.

Soundsmith's OCNCL stylus wuith zero hours...
I got it posted on Agon, but I think I'm going to pull out the auction...

http://gallery.audioreview.com/data/audio//500/Transfig.JPG

[Glen B]

Have you seen basite's remarks? He seems to think you have the better one of the two. The new one seems to have a AT arm....which I suppose is a bad thing.
No I have not seen Basite's remarks offering an opinion on the two Denons. Where ? Not in this thread.

[frenchmon]

No I have not seen Basite's remarks offering an opinion on the two Denons. Where ? Not in this thread.

check out posting #47 by Basite.

[Glen B]

check out posting #47 by Basite. Got it. I skimmed over the rest when I saw the first sentence was discussing Soundsmith products.

[02audionoob]

Nice cartridge. Nice photograph and my next lens is the 60mm macro Canon ES lens for my 50D. I have been thinking about sending the MC Gold to Soundsmith for a better stylus. When you do install it please let us know if you hear an improvement. My options are trading in the Gold for a new one or having it retipped.

That photo was taken with a Kodak Z740, which takes nice pictures if I give it enough light. For serious photos, we do have a Canon digital SLR, but this camera does nicely for everyday use.

I decided to install the 10X4 since those who knew about it seemed interested in hearing how it sounds. Of course, it might change a little as it settles in, but I'll go ahead and comment on its obvious differences as compared to my Eroica that I've been using.

The long story short is...If I could audition cartridges, this probably isn't one I would have brought home. For my investment of right around $200 it's decent and fun. But so far I think of this cartridge like Beyonce. It's pretty, it has sizzling highs and a nice but rather round bottom. It's not quite getting the midrange right, though. We shall see how it goes.

At this rate, an Eroica might be my next cartridge, with this one used as a trade-in. I'm also thinking about sending it to the UK for a re-tip. Haven't checked prices.

[frenchmon]

ahhh...if you consider Beyonce midrange just below her chin to the top of her naval...she got her midrange right... just perfect!:D

I suspect your cart may have some breakin to do. I've never heard any negativity mentioned with that cart.....you are the first. Its probably needing a breakin.

[02audionoob]

I suppose I don't really mean to be negative about the Dynavector. It's just new territory for me. It sounds like someone pushed the loudness button, when compared to my Goldring cartridges. But I sort of knew to expect a difference in that direction. I'll give it 20 hours or so and then maybe add one more shim. The arm is running ever so slightly below horizontal, as it also was with the Eroica. As best I can tell with the aid of a magnifier and reading glasses, I think the stylus is running at the right angle, though.

[frenchmon]

I suppose I don't really mean to be negative about the Dynavector. It's just new territory for me. It sounds like someone pushed the loudness button, when compared to my Goldring cartridges. But I sort of knew to expect a difference in that direction. I'll give it 20 hours or so and then maybe add one more shim. The arm is running ever so slightly below horizontal, as it also was with the Eroica. As best I can tell with the aid of a magnifier and reading glasses, I think the stylus is running at the right angle, though.

When I heard the Goldring G 2400 on the mmf-7.1 it sounded warm and really smooth without losing any dynamics. But I really dont know how warm that cart was going through a Grado phono amp which is warm. And that phono amp into Bel Canto preamp and amp....Bel Canto is also warm. Your ears may be use to that warm smooth sound and not the louder and lively Dynavector.

[02audionoob]

When I heard the Goldring G 2400 on the mmf-7.1 it sounded warm and really smooth without losing any dynamics. But I really dont know how warm that cart was going through a Grado phono amp which is warm. And that phono amp into Bel Canto preamp and amp....Bel Canto is also warm. Your ears may be use to that warm smooth sound and not the louder and lively Dynavector.

I've listened to 5 albums now and I'm starting to see (hear) the attraction. Right now, I've got the mono re-issue of Bob Dylan - The Times They Are A Changin' playing. It's not exactly the kind of record I'd use to try out a cartridge, but it's what I felt like hearing. Earlier today, I played Linda Ronstadt - Prisoner In Disguise and Bonnie Raitt - Home Plate. Both of those had a little extra dose of excitement to them, as compared to hearing them with the Eroica. I'm tempted to throw on a Joan Jett record next.:3:

[Jack in Wilmington]

I've listened to 5 albums now and I'm starting to see (hear) the attraction. Right now, I've got the mono re-issue of Bob Dylan - The Times They Are A Changin' playing. It's not exactly the kind of record I'd use to try out a cartridge, but it's what I felt like hearing. Earlier today, I played Linda Ronstadt - Prisoner In Disguise and Bonnie Raitt - Home Plate. Both of those had a little extra dose of excitement to them, as compared to hearing them with the Eroica. I'm tempted to throw on a Joan Jett record next.:3:

Hey Noob, I can't seem to remember which Eroica you have? I've been enjoying my DAC so much, that I've been neglecting my vinyl. Maybe it's time to try a new cartridge and I wasn't sure if you had the LX or the H. Thanks. Sounds like the Dyna is growing on you.

[02audionoob]

Hey Noob, I can't seem to remember which Eroica you have? I've been enjoying my DAC so much, that I've been neglecting my vinyl. Maybe it's time to try a new cartridge and I wasn't sure if you had the LX or the H. Thanks. Sounds like the Dyna is growing on you.

Mine is the H. I've occasionally thought about trading it in against an LX. I've also considered sending it off for a re-tip. I suppose I fear a re-tip might change the sound in a bad way. I'm curious about the LX and it's less expensive than a 10X5 if ordered from a British dealer. But given that I have this 10X4, the Eroica H and a fairly new Goldring 1042, I'm not anxious to buy another cartridge. If I could get a good price selling the 10X4 or the 1042, I suppose I'd probably spend the proceeds and the trade-in on a Eroica LX.

[frenchmon]

I've listened to 5 albums now and I'm starting to see (hear) the attraction. Right now, I've got the mono re-issue of Bob Dylan - The Times They Are A Changin' playing. It's not exactly the kind of record I'd use to try out a cartridge, but it's what I felt like hearing. Earlier today, I played Linda Ronstadt - Prisoner In Disguise and Bonnie Raitt - Home Plate. Both of those had a little extra dose of excitement to them, as compared to hearing them with the Eroica. I'm tempted to throw on a Joan Jett record next.:3:

Glad to hear you are having fun with your new cart!

[frenchmon]

Noob...got the loaner A+ phono cable today. They are not even broken in as of yet. The moment the cart dropped I could hear the improvement. Every faze of the sound has improved. this is the first thing I have done to the table since the purchase about a month and a half ago. It really sounds great. I am taking your advice and not getting a cart...the 2M Black right away but am building around it first.

My next upgrade will be a better platform. I think I have ruled out granite in favour of maple or birch. Noob if you have not invested in a good phono cable, I suggest you do....it will be worth the money. Especially if you get the kinda deal I got. 1 meter list for $410 of the Low Mass Oval Phono Cable from A+...I was able to get it for $240. I was going to go with Ortofon seeing my contact was having a hard time getting a loaner from one of the guys who answers the phone, so he went around the guy and then was he able to secure a loaner. I am glad he did because all my speaker cables and interconnects are A+, and you know how I fell about keeping all my cables the same brand and series. But back to the sound, not only is everything better,but it also sounds like I have better seperation in the instuments. Of course a darker back ground, but what I like most is the midsection being more in focus as well. So for $240 coin, I think its a good deal on a good cable. My dealer said to check it out for two weeks and if I like it, He would get me one....Im sure he wants this one as his demo.

Also picked up a brand new in the box Spin Clean for $60. I think they list for $80. I guess one day I will get one like yours, but for now this will do.

Still can't understand why they make the ground so big?

http://www.analysis-plus.com/images/LowMassPhonsmall.jpg

fenchmon

[02audionoob]

That's nice to see you went ahead with the A+ cable. My phono cable is wired into the tonearm, so I'm content to leave it, although maybe someday I'll have the tonearm re-wired.

On another topic...I tried a little experiment, today. I bought a Rotel RQ 970BX phono preamp on Craigslist last weekend, so I put that on the tube amp. I also ordered a Digitrac 300SE P-mount cartridge for my Technics SL-7 and it came during the week. I installed that and ran the SL-7 to the Rotel. Head to head competition...Technics SL-7 vs. Rega P5. OK...a boatload of variables...different cartridges, different phono preamps. But wow...surprising results! Hmm...seriously...not. The Technics/Rotel/Digitrac combo was humbled, to say the least. Oh well. It was fun to try while I had the Marantz out of the way. That turntable is pretty decent, but ultimately was probably the weakest link.

[frenchmon]

That's nice to see you went ahead with the A+ cable. My phono cable is wired into the tonearm, so I'm content to leave it, although maybe someday I'll have the tonearm re-wired.

On another topic...I tried a little experiment, today. I bought a Rotel RQ 970BX phono preamp on Craigslist last weekend, so I put that on the tube amp. I also ordered a Digitrac 300SE P-mount cartridge for my Technics SL-7 and it came during the week. I installed that and ran the SL-7 to the Rotel. Head to head competition...Technics SL-7 vs. Rega P5. OK...a boatload of variables...different cartridges, different phono preamps. But wow...surprising results! Hmm...seriously...not. The Technics/Rotel/Digitrac combo was humbled, to say the least. Oh well. It was fun to try while I had the Marantz out of the way. That turntable is pretty decent, but ultimately was probably the weakest link.

Oh...thats right...you did tell me it was fixed...my bad, but if you get a tt with RCA's get a good phono cable. I will be worth it.

Thats interesting. Have you tried the Rega/Rotel vrs the Rega/ GCPH? I'd like to know how much the RQ 970BX is humble with a good TT.

[02audionoob]

Oh...thats right...you did tell me it was fixed...my bad, but if you get a tt with RCA's get a good phono cable. I will be worth it.

Thats interesting. Have you tried the Rega/Rotel vrs the Rega/ GCPH? I'd like to know how much the RQ 970BX is humble with a good TT.

I'll have to swap phono preamps sometimes and see how it goes. I bet the Rotel wasn't the weakness, but I might as well prove it to myself, one way or the other.

[frenchmon]

I'll have to swap phono preamps sometimes and see how it goes. I bet the Rotel wasn't the weakness, but I might as well prove it to myself, one way or the other.

Id be interested in hearing your opinion. I think JM had one and he said its not to shabby. Of course I have an onboard phono amp in my RC1090 which is very good. And of course you may already know the Rotel Michi RHAQ-10 phono stage had great positive reviews as being an outstanding stage...even today they don't last long on the used market. So I'd be interested in your opinion.

[frenchmon]

Been listening for a while now....either the phono cable that came with the TT is just bad...or the new A+ cable is really good. But whatever it is, the 7.1 is just off the chain....and this is still with the 2M Red....once I get the 2M Black, I just cant imagine the 7.1 sounding any better...

[atomicAdam]

That's nice to see you went ahead with the A+ cable. My phono cable is wired into the tonearm, so I'm content to leave it, although maybe someday I'll have the tonearm re-wired.



I'm very happy so far w/ my tone arm rewire. Honestly I've not hooked up my CDP since I've moved. Pure analog and tubes at this point. And the Brodmann FS speaker - was having real issues at first - now I'm going to cry a bit when they have to be shipped back. The mid range is like the smell of a woman.

[JohnMichael]

. The mid range is like the smell of a woman.




Ooohh which part?

[frenchmon]

I'm very happy so far w/ my tone arm rewire. Honestly I've not hooked up my CDP since I've moved. Pure analog and tubes at this point. And the Brodmann FS speaker - was having real issues at first - now I'm going to cry a bit when they have to be shipped back. The mid range is like the smell of a woman.

Some of these manufacturers have to keep the price down, so I wonder how good some of these cables...fixed of changeable, really are? The mmf-7.1 said the supplied cable was high end. Well the A+ cable exposed it as a fake.

[02audionoob]

Id be interested in hearing your opinion. I think JM had one and he said its not to shabby. Of course I have an onboard phono amp in my RC1090 which is very good. And of course you may already know the Rotel Michi RHAQ-10 phono stage had great positive reviews as being an outstanding stage...even today they don't last long on the used market. So I'd be interested in your opinion.

I gave the Rotel a turn playing Karla Bonoff's self-titled album with the main system just now. It seemed to be pulling its weight just fine. The closed-in characteristics that were present with the Technics/Digitrac/Rotel combo were not present when the P5/10X4 was connected to the Rotel. The Rotel holds its own, without excessively coloring the sound. It had an oddly distracting tiny sizzle on the highs that I could probably get used to. Other than that, overall a nice addition to the system.

[JohnMichael]

I gave the Rotel a turn playing Karla Bonoff's self-titled album with the main system just now. It seemed to be pulling its weight just fine.



Wow flashbacks tonight. I saw Karla Bonoff opening for Jackson Browne years ago. Good show. The Rotel needs a noise free environment to sound it's best. Turn off any digital equipment and avoid flourecent lights and dimmers. If you have any noise filtering I would plug the Rotel into it.

[frenchmon]

I gave the Rotel a turn playing Karla Bonoff's self-titled album with the main system just now. It seemed to be pulling its weight just fine. The closed-in characteristics that were present with the Technics/Digitrac/Rotel combo were not present when the P5/10X4 was connected to the Rotel. The Rotel holds its own, without excessively coloring the sound. It had an oddly distracting tiny sizzle on the highs that I could probably get used to. Other than that, overall a nice addition to the system.

Nice to hear that. I may some day get one just to compare it to the onboard on on the 1090.

[Ajani]

Any body want to be first? Lets see pictures of your

I was just about to upload a pick and then I realized there was an 'e' in Deck... My bad... Guess I'll have to wait till I get a TT to post...

[frenchmon]

I was just about to upload a pick and then I realized there was an 'e' in Deck... My bad... Guess I'll have to wait till I get a TT to post...

Boy...you nasty! Glad you realized your mistake....:crazy:

[JohnMichael]

Got this retip job back from Soundsmith, yesterday. Figured it deserved a spot in frenchmon's photo thread, even though it might not get a turn on the P5 for a little while yet.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3056/5857959935_8d1494eeae_b.jpg



I just checked on the price of a retip through NeedleDoctor and the Benz MC Gold is now $325 up from $250 so my Gold will be going to Soundsmith. Your retip looks very good and seems to be a good value. The original Benz stylus is not a nude stylus and I think the lower mass will improve the sound. I am not sure if I will step up to the ruby/line contact combination. It would still be cheaper than the retip/exchange Benz. Of course I would probably not mount it in a long while since I am still pleased with the AT F7.

[02audionoob]

I just checked on the price of a retip through NeedleDoctor and the Benz MC Gold is now $325 up from $250 so my Gold will be going to Soundsmith. Your retip looks very good and seems to be a good value. The original Benz stylus is not a nude stylus and I think the lower mass will improve the sound. I am not sure if I will step up to the ruby/line contact combination. It would still be cheaper than the retip/exchange Benz. Of course I would probably not mount it in a long while since I am still pleased with the AT F7.

I agree it's good value. I stayed with the elliptical tip and aluminum cantilever to try to match the Dynavector's original build. I am curious about the ruby but I was even more curious about the original 10X4 sound.

[Brett A]

Here's my main 'table. It's a Well Tempered Redord Player mounted with an Audio Technica AT OC9 MLII (running into a mod'ed Jolida JD9)

[frenchmon]

Just wonderful...nice table.

[Brett A]

Just wonderful...nice table.
Thanks!. I'm pretty sure it's the last 'table I'll ever buy. I really love it. It gets out of the way of the music like nothing I'd heard before.
:wink5:

[frenchmon]

Being a Music Hall fan...and owner of a 7.1 with a daul plinth...

http://img838.imageshack.us/img838/8483/pict0198k.jpg

digging the 9.1 with a triple plinth and after seeing the new Music Hall Signature table with 4 plinths (that has yet to be realeased)...I love the plinth that's on Well Tempered Table. Nice with a triple stack.

[Brett A]

Being a Music Hall fan...and owner of a 7.1 with a dual plinth...


digging the 9.1 with a triple plinth and after seeing the new Music Hall Signature table with 4 plinths (that has yet to be released)...I love the plinth that's on Well Tempered Table. Nice with a triple stack.

That's a 'bute! And with the requisite chunk of Magic Eraser too.

My local shop is a Music Hall dealer and they have every model on display (pretty sure). I hope to hear one some day.

[JohnMichael]

Noob...got the loaner A+ phono cable today. They are not even broken in as of yet. The moment the cart dropped I could hear the improvement. Every faze of the sound has improved. this is the first thing I have done to the table since the purchase about a month and a half ago. It really sounds great. I am taking your advice and not getting a cart...the 2M Black right away but am building around it first.

My next upgrade will be a better platform. I think I have ruled out granite in favour of maple or birch. Noob if you have not invested in a good phono cable, I suggest you do....it will be worth the money. Especially if you get the kinda deal I got. 1 meter list for $410 of the Low Mass Oval Phono Cable from A+...I was able to get it for $240. I was going to go with Ortofon seeing my contact was having a hard time getting a loaner from one of the guys who answers the phone, so he went around the guy and then was he able to secure a loaner. I am glad he did because all my speaker cables and interconnects are A+, and you know how I fell about keeping all my cables the same brand and series. But back to the sound, not only is everything better,but it also sounds like I have better seperation in the instuments. Of course a darker back ground, but what I like most is the midsection being more in focus as well. So for $240 coin, I think its a good deal on a good cable. My dealer said to check it out for two weeks and if I like it, He would get me one....Im sure he wants this one as his demo.

Also picked up a brand new in the box Spin Clean for $60. I think they list for $80. I guess one day I will get one like yours, but for now this will do.

Still can't understand why they make the ground so big?

http://www.analysis-plus.com/images/LowMassPhonsmall.jpg

fenchmon



frenchmon I have a question about your turntable. I was looking at the manual that comes with it and it showed two RCA plugs on the back. Is the wire leading to the RCA's able to be unplugged from the tonearm base. I was not sure how that tonearm cable could work unless there was that connection at the tonearm base?

[frenchmon]

frenchmon I have a question about your turntable. I was looking at the manual that comes with it and it showed two RCA plugs on the back. Is the wire leading to the RCA's able to be unplugged from the tonearm base. I was not sure how that tonearm cable could work unless there was that connection at the tonearm base?

If I am understanding you correctly and the point to which you are driving....No you cant unplug from the arm base....lest you disablement the box that the rca plugs are attached to.

The picture actually shows to different connector offerings depending on which connection the table/preamp requires....one is a RCA connection at both ends the other a DIN connection at one end and RCA at the other as the picture shows.

Hope I am understanding you correctly?

[frenchmon]

As beautiful as the Well Tempered is, every time I see it, the design of it keeps reminding me of a Music Hall/ Clear Audio table. It has something to do with the plinth and the tone arm.

[JohnMichael]

If I am understanding you correctly and the point to which you are driving....No you cant unplug from the arm base....lest you disablement the box that the rca plugs are attached to.

The picture actually shows to different connector offerings depending on which connection the table/preamp requires....one is a RCA connection at both ends the other a DIN connection at one end and RCA at the other as the picture shows.

Hope I am understanding you correctly?


Yes you are. I have been looking for another table and I thought by your picture showing the din plug the arm had several options for a way to wire. When I shop for products I tend to read the manuals because they may tell you more than ad copy. If it had a din plug I thought maybe the arm could be removed and tried on a different table.

[frenchmon]

Yes you are. I have been looking for another table and I thought by your picture showing the din plug the arm had several options for a way to wire. When I shop for products I tend to read the manuals because they may tell you more than ad copy. If it had a din plug I thought maybe the arm could be removed and tried on a different table.

My Man! Its fun shopping for audio gear. Good for you!

[frenchmon]

JM...do you like the look of non traditional tables?


http://www.vinylengine.com/phpBB2/album_picm.php?pic_id=18472


http://reviews.audioreview.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/pro-ject-10.1.jpg

[frenchmon]

The new Oracle Paris has teh Carbon Fiber arm as well. Its looks like the Pro Ject Evo arm

http://www.oracle-audio.com/imagesup/produit/12_paris_site_web_franco_ted.jpg

http://www.oracle-audio.com/imagesup/produit/20_paris_tone_arm_on_red_paris_dsc06336.jpg

This one looks like a 10 cc?

[Jack in Wilmington]

Being a Music Hall fan...and owner of a 7.1 with a daul plinth...

http://img838.imageshack.us/img838/8483/pict0198k.jpg

digging the 9.1 with a triple plinth and after seeing the new Music Hall Signature table with 4 plinths (that has yet to be realeased)...I love the plinth that's on Well Tempered Table. Nice with a triple stack.

Hey Frenchie, What do you use on your plinth to keep it so shiny and clean? Even with the dust cover, the dust finds a way to get in there on mine. Thanks, Jack

[frenchmon]

Actually..I dust it off with the white gloves that came with it. Thats about it. Not much dust in my two channel room....now if you ask about static on my vinyl, thats a different story. I think its because of my sound treatment on the walls and carpet on the floor.

[Jack in Wilmington]

Actually..I dust it off with the white gloves that came with it. Thats about it. Not much dust in my two channel room....now if you ask about static on my vinyl, thats a different story. I think its because of my sound treatment on the walls and carpet on the floor.

You're lucky, I have to dust in my audio room at least twice a week. I vacuum once a week, but I only have a 8ft x 6ft area rug in there. I have one window that I never open and central air so I don't know where the dust comes from. Oh God, I sound like my mother.

[02audionoob]

My approach to dust in the audio room is to let sleeping dogs lie. Vacuum cleaners get dust airborne. I do wipe individual areas. When I do finally vacuum, it's only with the machine cleaned out immediately before and with a high-efficiency filter in it. I also use high-quality filters in the central AC.

[Jack in Wilmington]

My approach to dust in the audio room is to let sleeping dogs lie. Vacuum cleaners get dust airborne. I do wipe individual areas. When I do finally vacuum, it's only with the machine cleaned out immediately before and with a high-efficiency filter in it. I also use high-quality filters in the central AC.

I had a high quality filter on the heater and the heater guy who comes to clean it once a year told me to watch the real high end filter as they restrict the air flow too much. Maybe I need a whole house air purifier? What kind of filters do you use noob?

[02audionoob]

I had a high quality filter on the heater and the heater guy who comes to clean it once a year told me to watch the real high end filter as they restrict the air flow too much. Maybe I need a whole house air purifier? What kind of filters do you use noob?

We have two systems. The main part of the house is old and not built tight so we put an Aprilaire 2400 on it. I use the propriety replacements for it. In the addition where the audio system is, the construction is new and tight, so we have a setup that uses the 1-inch filters. I use the Filtrete filters with the red label ("Better"), which are one down from the one they call "Best".

[frenchmon]

You're lucky, I have to dust in my audio room at least twice a week. I vacuum once a week, but I only have a 8ft x 6ft area rug in there. I have one window that I never open and central air so I don't know where the dust comes from. Oh God, I sound like my mother.

I use to do heating and cooling. Have you had your ducts cleaned?

Returns suck it in....registers blow it out.

[frenchmon]

My approach to dust in the audio room is to let sleeping dogs lie. Vacuum cleaners get dust airborne. I do wipe individual areas. When I do finally vacuum, it's only with the machine cleaned out immediately before and with a high-efficiency filter in it. I also use high-quality filters in the central AC.

be-careful with some of those high dollar filters...especially the real thick or stiff ones. Over time, they can make the motor in the air intake prematurely stop working....some filters make the motor work harder than what is necessary. And you don't want one that's to thin...it can get sucked up into the air intake.

[frenchmon]

I had a high quality filter on the heater and the heater guy who comes to clean it once a year told me to watch the real high end filter as they restrict the air flow too much. Maybe I need a whole house air purifier? What kind of filters do you use noob?

Jack...your tech told you right.....the reason they restrict the air flow is because your air intake works to hard...has to pull more than it has to....putting a strain on the whole system.

The best whole house air cleaners we use to install was the Aprilaire air cleaners...worked great and they where also easy to install.

[frenchmon]

We have two systems. The main part of the house is old and not built tight so we put an Aprilaire 2400 on it. I use the propriety replacements for it. In the addition where the audio system is, the construction is new and tight, so we have a setup that uses the 1-inch filters. I use the Filtrete filters with the red label ("Better"), which are one down from the one they call "Best".

Sounds like you are set.

[TheSmartIdiot95]

Here's a nice surprise for all of you. I'm gonna show you 3 "decks" and 1 "turntable".

Old "deck"

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-zJxZuYMGX5M/TmEwLABbrPI/AAAAAAAAACE/x5UF32exmy0/s400/FILE0004.JPG

New "deck"

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-OhLzr8nRaXU/TmEwLcwehLI/AAAAAAAAACI/Yd7J6tysx3s/s400/FILE0005.JPG

A VCR counts as a "deck", right?

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R2olYt8k7q4/TmEwK5faj7I/AAAAAAAAACA/wI1ub-Wr-E8/s400/FILE0001.JPG

A USB turntable is not the greatest TT, but it's convenient.

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-88w5LTD8BzA/TmEwOaMvpoI/AAAAAAAAACQ/P9sMEbNvgpY/s400/FILE0011.JPG

Not the greatest TT ever, but it can play the greatest album ever

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-AtMRbB4tNf0/TmEwOLUs1iI/AAAAAAAAACM/3A9_U7-uUY8/s400/FILE0009.JPG

[daviethek]

My table currently with Denon 103 cart. Huge fun but I don't have a clue what to do if it breaks down.

[02audionoob]

My table currently with Denon 103 cart. Huge fun but I don't have a clue what to do if it breaks down.

You've got an elegant look going there.

[frenchmon]

Nice....if it breaks down go over to audiokarma or vinylengine and some one will be able to help you, if not here.

[daviethek]

You've got an elegant look going there.

Thank you. It is a looker even by 2011 standards. I got the table for 150 on the Bay from an estate dealer with respectable reputation. Buying a well aged TT is a relatively high risk but I thought why not. I has not been used since the 80's because it was very dusty with a Grace F-9 cartridge and a broken needle. After some investigation, I set the Grace aside, considering a cost of 250.00 to fabricate a new tip. I am just not that curious about how the Grace would sound. I always used AT carts even in the 70's. I will give it away for postage to someone who really is committed to re-tipping it, but with so many great budget carts, I figured why bother.
The table is, I believe, a good mid-level table. It has adjustable feet, floating platter, center disc weight, not common for 1982. It also is a belt drive with an adjustable quartz loc. I figure it is better than most entry level tables today but not as good as a 1,500 table, which is what I am saving up for. I am tired of maintaining a system piece-meal and I think I will wait until I have maybe 3 or 4 K and just do it right. This will require discipline because I am a nervous upgrader. Cheers Audionoob, dk

[JohnMichael]

Here is a picture of my Rega Planar2 with the Grado Statement Sonato.

[frenchmon]

Nice...I know it sounds good!

[Poultrygeist]

Don't know how this Dual stacks up to more modern TT but It's handsome enough to keep.

http://gallery.audioreview.com/data/audio/500/medium/P6270024.JPG

[JohnMichael]

Don't know how this Dual stacks up to more modern TT but It's handsome enough to keep.

http://gallery.audioreview.com/data/audio/500/medium/P6270024.JPG



Your Dual is in my opinion the best modern Dual. I like any tonearm with a lowered counterweight. When I replaced the stock counterweight with a lowered one it was obvious how much better the arm tracked. Having the counterweight in the same plane as the stylus also seemed to reduce surface noise.

I would be interested how an Ortofon Red or Blue and a high compliance Soundsmith cartridge might sound. A low mass tonearm and high compliance cartridge can make some wonderful music.

[02audionoob]

I agree with the assessment that the CS5000 is the best modern Dual. I wanted one of those when they were available new. I sometimes consider buying one when they pop up on the used market.

[daviethek]

I'm glad I am not the only one who likes the looks and function of these older decks. I think the Empire decks are good looking also. When I see one, I want to put on a Count Basie LP.

Thorens re-introduced the 160 and it is simple and good looking, but very expensive. The last table I had as my primary source back in the early 80's was a Thorens TD 190. Not the best Thorens but I liked it. I think I just like the sound of the suspended platter tables.

2 Channel System:
HK TD 60 TT, Denon 103 Cart
Sumo Athena Preamp
Adcom 535II Power Amp
Yamaha T1 Tuner
Gallo Ref. 3.1 Speakers
Anti-Cable Speaker Wires
Morrow IC's

[frenchmon]

This new DualCS 505-4 looks nice but I hear the arms arent as good as the older TT.

http://www.avmentor.gr/reviews/photos/group_test_analog_systems_1k5/dual_cs_505_4_1.jpg

[frenchmon]

I think Dual and Thorens are now cousins which is not a bad thing..or share the same in some of the same designs....look at the arms on both tables..

http://www.thorens.com/uploads/tx_templavoila/teaser-td190-1.jpg

http://www.avmentor.gr/reviews/photos/group_test_analog_systems_1k5/dual_cs_505_4_1.jpg

And Pro-Ject had something to do with this Thorens....

http://www.thorens.com/uploads/tx_templavoila/teaser-td295mkiv-1.jpg



And this one borrows from Rega it seems...with a Pro'Ject platter.

http://www.thorens.com/uploads/tx_templavoila/teaser-td160hd-1.jpg

I wonder if this is an all Thorens design? Chances are its not all Thorens...

http://www.thorens.com/uploads/tx_templavoila/teaser-td550-1.jpg


But I betcha with the right gear and right cart....all of them will shine!

[02audionoob]

I think the deal is Thorens is outsourcing quite a bit. They're re-badging a turntable made by Dual and they're using tonearms by Pro-Ject and others on their turntables.

[frenchmon]

I think the deal is Thorens is outsourcing quite a bit. They're re-badging a turntable made by Dual and they're using tonearms by Pro-Ject and others on their turntables.

I agree....What can you gather from that last table?

And this one it seems has a modified Rega Arm as well.

http://www.thorens.com/uploads/tx_templavoila/teaser-td309-2011.jpg


But its that last table in the previous posting that I can't see anything borrowed.... Can you? Sorta looks like an combination of two different Ortofon Arms.

http://www.ortofon.com/images/stories/tonearms/TA-110-Tonearm01.jpg

http://www.ortofon.com/images/stories/tonearms/tonearm_d309.png

[frenchmon]

So it seems like Thorens are designing the plinths and every thing else and are borrowing arms from other company's...Personally I dont see anything wrong with that....IF some one can do it better than you, then why not?

[02audionoob]

I don't remember for sure, but I think the tonearm on the Thorens TD 550 actually says "Ortofon" right on top.

[frenchmon]

noob...look at the Thorens with the Pro-Ject arm....now think about my MH 2.1 or a Pro-Ject 1.2 .... I think that Thorens with the Pro-Ject arm is the same table...only dressed up abit. My MH 2.1 is a nice sounding entry level table....So im sure that Thorens must be better sounding than that...at least I hope so for the price they are charging for it.

[02audionoob]

noob...look at the Thorens with the Pro-Ject arm....now think about my MH 2.1 or a Pro-Ject 1.2 .... I think that Thorens with the Pro-Ject arm is the same table...only dressed up abit. My MH 2.1 is a mice sounding entry level table....So im sure that Thorens must be better sounding than that...at least I hope so for the price they are charging for it.

That Thorens with the Pro-Ject arm has an electronic shut-off and 33/45 switch.

[frenchmon]

That Thorens with the Pro-Ject arm has an electronic shut-off and 33/45 switch.

Oh...well that sure ain't the same table....

[02audionoob]

There's a "Comfort" variation of some of the Pro-Ject turntables. The Thorens is more likely one of those.

[JohnMichael]

I think the deal is Thorens is outsourcing quite a bit. They're re-badging a turntable made by Dual and they're using tonearms by Pro-Ject and others on their turntables.



I owned the Thorens TD 290 and it had it's issues. I must say my nephew is still impressing young women with vinyl on the Thorens. When you see the arm you can tell it was sourced from ProJect.

[JohnMichael]

I agree....What can you gather from that last table?

And this one it seems has a modified Rega Arm as well.

http://www.thorens.com/uploads/tx_templavoila/teaser-td309-2011.jpg







I do not think it is a Rega arm but more a Jelco. Similar to the Linn Axis tonearm.

[02audionoob]

Here's the TD 290's apparent Pro-Ject brother...

[frenchmon]

ah...thats a 2 Xperience TT alright.

[AVMASTER]

not my TT but my most recent "2 channel" customer
Transrotor Leonardo 25/25/60 with Parasound Halo JC3, P3, A21, D3 and KEF 201/2

[daviethek]

Catalog engineering is a sign of the times and does not reflect badly on Thorens except their entry level tables are too expensive and not original looking in my opinion.
The TD 309 sure is an interesting table however. The Celearaudio concept is also a nice industrial design job at around the same price. How do they really sound? I was left cold by the reviews of both tables in Stereophile. I've got my eye on the MMF 9.1 for a future purchase. Big, heavy , relatively unattractive but might be the best sounding at the high end entry point. I know this subject has been covered a thousand times but given the current crop of tables in the 1.5K -2K range, what do you guys think?

cheers, dk

[frenchmon]

Catalog engineering is a sign of the times and does not reflect badly on Thorens except their entry level tables are too expensive and not original looking in my opinion.
The TD 309 sure is an interesting table however. The Celearaudio concept is also a nice industrial design job at around the same price. How do they really sound? I was left cold by the reviews of both tables in Stereophile. I've got my eye on the MMF 9.1 for a future purchase. Big, heavy , relatively unattractive but might be the best sounding at the high end entry point. I know this subject has been covered a thousand times but given the current crop of tables in the 1.5K -2K range, what do you guys think?

cheers, dk

Well firstly I like the MMF-9.1 as well as the Pro-Ject 9.2 and 10.1. And they all do sound very nice. Secondly, I dont think they are unattractive at all. Thirdly you may also consider the Rega P-5 which is on sale at $1009, as well as the MMF-7.1, Clearaudio Concept,Origin Live Aurora MKII , Pro-Ject PerspeX ,Pro-Ject 2 Xperience , Sota Satellite and Comet are a few you may consider.

[02audionoob]

If I were shopping for something around this range I think I'd be hard-pressed to beat the Rega P5 or the VPI Scout. If I were looking at Music Hall, for some reason I feel like the MMF-7.1 may be the sweet spot for them. I really like frenchmon's list, except that I prefer Clearaudio's Emotion over the Concept.

[frenchmon]

Oh I forgot about the Marantz TT 15S1...and looking at the Emotion above reminded me.....They are down to $1495.

http://www.dartmouth.tv/audio/images/tt-15-500.jpg

Also keep in mind, not every one likes the sound of every TT listed here or else where. Some love certain TT's while hating other TT's. So its up to you to seek to take a listen to what ever TT you can before purchase. For instance....The Marantz table was disliked by some at another forum...I've listened to the Marantz at least 3 times and each time I thought it was great.

[02audionoob]

frenchmon...would you say the Marantz comes off a little lean? With the one forum member I've seen disappointed with his Marantz, I get the idea he likes a bit thicker sound...sort of a closet vintage fan, maybe...which would be a little ironic, since he's an outspoken advocate of modern gear in a decidedly vintage-dominated forum.

[daviethek]

[QUOTE=frenchmon;369426]Oh I forgot about the Marantz TT 15S1...and looking at the Emotion above reminded me.....They are down to $1495.

Thanks Frenchmon. the guys at Music Direct make a strong case for the Marantz and the 9.1. I will plan some auditions during my trips to larger towns this year
( Chicago and Las Vegas).

Isn't it a shame that we have to go through so much just to audition equipment. There is only one high-end dealer in pittsburgh and he handles only Nottingham. His gear is actually dusty from non-use. He sells home theatre almost exclusively.
The vinyl revolution has skipped a few areas of the country.

[JohnMichael]

[QUOTE=frenchmon;369426]Oh I forgot about the Marantz TT 15S1...and looking at the Emotion above reminded me.....They are down to $1495.

Thanks Frenchmon. the guys at Music Direct make a strong case for the Marantz and the 9.1. I will plan some auditions during my trips to larger towns this year
( Chicago and Las Vegas).

Isn't it a shame that we have to go through so much just to audition equipment. There is only one high-end dealer in pittsburgh and he handles only Nottingham. His gear is actually dusty from non-use. He sells home theatre almost exclusively.
The vinyl revolution has skipped a few areas of the country.


Yes 15 years ago I would never have purchased equipment unheard. Now I read reviews on products and try to make a decision. I bought the Krell based on reviews and that worked out well. I heard the MA RS6's at an audio store and I finally have them sounding very good. Ordered the Grado Statement Sonata and happy it is sounding so good. Never had a chance to hear a wood bodied Grado but from a few reviews I thought it would be nice in my system. I have thought about vacationing in a city with many audio shops. I have been lucky so far but I would not want to risk it again. Any more money spent will only be after auditioning.

[frenchmon]

frenchmon...would you say the Marantz comes off a little lean? With the one forum member I've seen disappointed with his Marantz, I get the idea he likes a bit thicker sound...sort of a closet vintage fan, maybe...which would be a little ironic, since he's an outspoken advocate of modern gear in a decidedly vintage-dominated forum.

IF by lean you mean as in light weight or thin, no I never got that impression...My most vivid memory of the Marantz.....it was being driven by a expensive McIntosh integrated amp and some Klipsch Palladium Floorstanding Speaker I think P-38F models at $6000 each. Sounded great.

[frenchmon]

[QUOTE=frenchmon;369426]Oh I forgot about the Marantz TT 15S1...and looking at the Emotion above reminded me.....They are down to $1495.

Thanks Frenchmon. the guys at Music Direct make a strong case for the Marantz and the 9.1. I will plan some auditions during my trips to larger towns this year
( Chicago and Las Vegas).

Isn't it a shame that we have to go through so much just to audition equipment. There is only one high-end dealer in pittsburgh and he handles only Nottingham. His gear is actually dusty from non-use. He sells home theatre almost exclusively.
The vinyl revolution has skipped a few areas of the country.

I've never listened to a Nottingham tabe, but I have heard wonderful things about those tables.....if he is not selling them but letting them collect dust, you may be able to haggle a price from him.

[frenchmon]

[QUOTE=frenchmon;369426]Oh I forgot about the Marantz TT 15S1...and looking at the Emotion above reminded me.....They are down to $1495.

Thanks Frenchmon. the guys at Music Direct make a strong case for the Marantz and the 9.1. I will plan some auditions during my trips to larger towns this year
( Chicago and Las Vegas).

Isn't it a shame that we have to go through so much just to audition equipment. There is only one high-end dealer in pittsburgh and he handles only Nottingham. His gear is actually dusty from non-use. He sells home theatre almost exclusively.
The vinyl revolution has skipped a few areas of the country.

By me having a 7.1.....I know the 9.1 will be a very good option. I just love the musicality and pace of the 7.1...it its always dead on as far as speed, and im still using a $99 cart and running it through a on board phono amp. Once I get a much better cart and dedicated phono amp im sure I will be speechless.

The Marantz to my ears, will not be a bad choice either. But I can speak with confidence about the 9.1 because of the 7.1

Good luck! And keep us updated of your findings.

Cheers.

[02audionoob]

IF by lean you mean as in light weight or thin, no I never got that impression...My most vivid memory of the Marantz.....it was being driven by a expensive McIntosh integrated amp and some Klipsch Palladium Floorstanding Speaker I think P-38F models at $6000 each. Sounded great.

Yes...I suppose I mean the kind of turntable that has the detail but not the weight. I've been sort of puzzled why JohnVF at the other forum doesn't like his. I sometimes consider Clearaudio and VPI, but in the end I figure it's probably either Rega, Pro-Ject or Music Hall for me. They just fit my system so well.

[frenchmon]

Yes...I suppose I mean the kind of turntable that has the detail but not the weight. I've been sort of puzzled why JohnVF at the other forum doesn't like his. I sometimes consider Clearaudio and VPI, but in the end I figure it's probably either Rega, Pro-Ject or Music Hall for me. They just fit my system so well.


Yeah...when the statements where made, I was sorta surprised as well...that was not my experience.

[frenchmon]

Well noob, I can say I'm perfectly happy with the 7.1 and hope to be for a long time. Shoot, your advise to me to hold off on a new cart right away was some of the best info about audio I've gotten in a long time.

[frenchmon]

[QUOTE=frenchmon;369426]Oh I forgot about the Marantz TT 15S1...and looking at the Emotion above reminded me.....They are down to $1495.

Thanks Frenchmon. the guys at Music Direct make a strong case for the Marantz and the 9.1. I will plan some auditions during my trips to larger towns this year
( Chicago and Las Vegas).

Isn't it a shame that we have to go through so much just to audition equipment. There is only one high-end dealer in pittsburgh and he handles only Nottingham. His gear is actually dusty from non-use. He sells home theatre almost exclusively.
The vinyl revolution has skipped a few areas of the country.

Daviethek...if you are thinking about the Marantz table...here is a good deal.

Marantz TT-15S1 Reference Series Turntable (http://www.independentaudiovideo.com/store/item_view.asp?estore_itemid=1000048)

Also look here.

Music Hall MMF-9.1 Turntable Without Cartridge (http://www.independentaudiovideo.com/store/item_view.asp?estore_itemid=1000691)

[Florian]

There are a lot of nice decks in this thread!

I restarted my Vinyl engine as well by buying a thousand records of mostly classical and some hundreds rock albums as well as some of my favorites on the MFSL label. Then i bought an Audiomeca Romance with the Romeo arm and Grado Platinium Reference Wood MM Systems. But it did not sound too well, although i attribute that partially to my lack of analog understanding at the time.

Now i use a Watec Analog Drive 5 with a Ortofon MC Rondo Red Catridge with 100 ohm phono loading on the Convergent Audio SL 1 MK II.

Here is a pic of it.

https://www.me.com/ro/f.wiegand/Galleries/100143/DSC03493/web.jpg?ver=13183658810001

https://www.me.com/ro/f.wiegand/Galleries/100143/DSC03500/web.jpg?ver=13183658860001

[frenchmon]

You wanta try again with the pic's?

[Jack in Wilmington]

Yeah I'm getting two red X's and no pictures.

[Florian]

How come? I can see them just fine. Can you describe the technical trouble your having, it helps me on the analysis.

Thanks

[old geezer]

I have a MMF 5 like the one pictured only mine has a AT150MLX, the Golding was too bland even with a 1042 needle. I also just bought A rega RP 1 for the "dungeon" where I keep the computer. Haven't got an account at a photo share site yet but images of them can be found on line. The New Rega has a AT120E in it and sounds sweet. The OM5e that came with it had a hum near the end of the record.That AT cart,pre amp,(Rega Fono Mini )and bi amped Polk speakers all go up to 25K. Ive heard that enhances the musicality even though its above the hearing range of humans. The MMF5 is playing through some BI AMPED Klipsh Icon floorstanding Speakers with a lower high end. I use a Belari vacuum pre amp to warm up the sound. I love them both.

[Enochrome]

I was thinking in investing in a MMF-5 for a back up deck (or dual wielding) and that looks like the best bang for the buck. I have doubts about the arm. Does anyone have any more insight into this deck. I just bought a new OM body ($20, thanks Brooks Berdan) for my Ortofon OM-20 and I have been listening to it lately and I forgot how good that cartridge is; I am not missing my Denon MC's right now.

[02audionoob]

I was thinking in investing in a MMF-5 for a back up deck (or dual wielding) and that looks like the best bang for the buck. I have doubts about the arm. Does anyone have any more insight into this deck. I just bought a new OM body ($20, thanks Brooks Berdan) for my Ortofon OM-20 and I have been listening to it lately and I forgot how good that cartridge is; I am not missing my Denon MC's right now.

The Pro-Ject tonearms like those used on the MMF-5 are better than many people seem to realize. It's actually the strong point. I had an MMF-5 for a while and liked it very well. I could have still been happy with it, but felt like trying something a little higher up in the world...mostly just to try it...but ultimately was quite pleased with where I landed.

[02audionoob]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7149/6422225839_e1c4d92435_b.jpg

[JohnMichael]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7149/6422225839_e1c4d92435_b.jpg



You will love the lowered counterweight. My lowered counterweight improved tracking and reduced surface noise. Have you had it a long time? What improvements have you noticed.

[02audionoob]

I just got the new counterweight today. I've played only one LP with it...Modern Jazz Quartet's Blues at Carnegie Hall. I think it does track better. The difference isn't huge, but this thing is a definite winner.

[JohnMichael]

You showed me yours and I will show you mine.

[Enochrome]

Just pick this up two weeks ago out of nowhere. Saw it on CL for $150 and emailed right away twice.
He held it for two days and I couldn't sleep both days. Its got dings in the plinth but who cares.

Micro Seiki DD-40:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7193/6832100198_5ef2d21e6b_z.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7179/6832099734_0170e42e34_z.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7060/6978227619_0cde4e83c3_z.jpg

[Jack in Wilmington]

I can't see from the pictures, did it come with a cartridge or did you mount one of your Denon's? Looks nice though.

[frenchmon]

Thats a niceMicro Seiki Enochrome!

[Hyfi]

Not mine, but back about 18 years ago I machined the majority of the parts for Versa Dynamics TTs while they were being prototyped and small production runs in a 8 man shop I worked in.

http://www.vinylengine.com/turntable_forum/gallery/image.php?mode=large&image_id=14251

http://www.vinylengine.com/turntable_forum/gallery/image.php?mode=large&image_id=14313

[Enochrome]

Thanks guys! That Denon I had before and mounted it myself, it's not really a suitable match, but its close.
Man, this table rocks: it holds speed like a champ (could look at that stroboscope all nigh), it has great torque, sounds smooth and warm with great extension. The arm is the real treat; I bought it just for that.
The MA-505 is masterful. The arm tracks like a champ, built like a luxury car, self adjusting anti-skate, a secondary lateral counterweight for more control and you can do VTF & VTA on the fly!

And to think I just bought two days before a OEM Rega RB-3OO with a whole bunch of extras for a lesser model Micro that I have had. Looks like I'll be selling the Rega.

[02audionoob]

I paid for my retip at Soundsmith, today. My Benz should be on its way to me, shortly.

[02audionoob]

The wife's Debut III got a cartridge upgrade.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7123/7594051882_0bb73e96a7_c.jpg

[frenchmon]

nice!

[StevenSurprenant]

You guys are just too cool for school! I can't help but drool when I see TT's like these.

I am learning that simple is better so I think I'll get the best...