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Message started by Matchstikman on 07/12/16 at 15:58:33

Title: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Matchstikman on 07/12/16 at 15:58:33

I have a Pro-ject 2.1, I think with a Grado needle.
I've been looking around for a new turntable and I'm kinda leaning towards a VPI Scout.

What about you?

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Archie on 07/12/16 at 16:42:53

Matchstikman,

I had a Scout on order 9 years ago when I came across Kevin at KAB. He convinced me that one of his modified Technics would be a better option and I've never regretted it. I am currenly rinning an Ortofon Kontrapunkt b MC cart with a ZMC1 and it really sings!

Technics is currently releasing a new 1200 that has been improved and seems to be phenomenal without any modifications People are putting it up against TTs far above the Scout level. Or, KAB is still modifying original 1200s.

Worth a look. You can call Kevin too. He is very accessible, like Steve.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Rraymond on 07/13/16 at 02:19:33

Rega Rp3. This is my first and only TT so I do t have much to compare but it did outperform the Rp1 significantly in my opinion.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Lon on 07/13/16 at 03:59:40

Rega RP3 and I upgraded to an Exact2 cartridge, the TTPSU and all the Groovetracer upgrades including the Delrin platter. Very happy!

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by jpv on 07/14/16 at 15:51:43

I currently have a VPI Scout Master. Before that I had a VPI HW-19 and a Systemdek IIX. Going from the Systemdek to the HW-19 was a big change. The VPI was much quieter. The Systemdek had a very low level rumble that I did not notice until I went with the VPI.

VPI are built like tanks and are upgradable.
You may have a hum problem with the Grado since they are not shielded.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Tripwr1964 on 07/15/16 at 13:05:50

i like my vintage Sota's.
currently a star sapphire, sme309, pulseR mc, zp3, zmc1.
since i got me zmc1 (final piece) i listen to vinyl 95% of time.

have my previous sapphire for sale. great setup just not a vacuum table.
http://www.usaudiomart.com/details/649238000-sota-sapphire-series-iii/

i'll let it go for $900 plus shipping. it's plug and play. and i have the original box to ship it in (very important with these).
its got an optional cast arm board, with oe rega rb 303 with techno weights (including optional xl for heavy carts). also has rega vta adapter. cart is a grado 8mz.

only thing wrong are the hairline cracks in the dust cover and you cant even see them unless your right on them.

anyway just a thought. it's a soid table for a very fair price (avg in lesser condition/arm/cart sell for $1100 - 1400).

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by hdrider on 07/17/16 at 15:16:56

I have a Sota Star Saphire vacuum, Fidelity Research FR-64 and a Shinon Red low output MC. The Sota table is an amazing piece of engineering and completely dead quiet with regards to any acoustical feedback. I cannot see ever changing out my table/arm but a new cartridge is in my sights after I get my bike back from my mechanic. Let us know what you settle on, lots of great used gear out there since Sony gave us Perfect Sound so many years ago….ha, ha. Happy Listening, Chris.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by jsm71 on 07/21/16 at 14:10:16

I've got the Marantz TT 15S1. It's a great bargain table made by Clearaudio that comes with a Clearaudio Virtuoso. The cart is easily half the value of the price.

After upgrading the Virtuoso with a Soundsmith level 3 upgrade I jumped into a Lyra Delos and added a Bob's SUT to feed into my MM phono input. The table part of the setup is now the weakest link.

I plan to buy a retirement table in a couple of years, likely to something from VPI. I like their product strategy and ability to replace anything if needed. If I pulled the trigger today it would likely be the Prime with 3D printed arm. My Lyra Delos is a recommended cart on their website.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by samb0357 on 07/30/16 at 03:39:38

AR XA, Elac Miracord 50H, Dual 1019, Garrard Lab 80 & Pioneer PL-6A.

They've all been restored, and in the case of the XA, lightly modified. And they all sound great.

I've owned previously tables from VPI and Music Hall, and while I enjoyed them, these tables are for more enjoyable. They're as musical as any piece of gear that I've ever owned.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Syd on 07/30/16 at 09:52:33

Roksan Radius 5 with high def cable. Micro Benz LPs.
Yes, overkill with the Benz costing more than twice the Radius ( all bought new). After a good few MC carts, always different manufacturers, I decided on a cart irregardless of common wisdom. That is, similar money for cart & TT. I wanted a cart to match the amps performance....music in music out ( the ZP3 impacted me ). And it`ll be future proof. The Roksan is stable, and musical. I`ve had it for, must be 7,8 years. We`ve been through a lot and seen gear come and go albeit at a slow pace. All good....
Now the arm, the Nima, makes up half the value of the Radius. Lovely arm, good looker as well, and a uni-pivot.
One thing about the Benz is it looks and feels like a nice lump, made of a dense wood. Ebony.
lol this cart is ...heavy, very heavy. The counterweight on the Nima will happily fall off the back of the stub and still be nowhere near countering the Benz. I have silver coronation 1/2 crown under the c/weight with a silicon tube damper wrapped around them both to find the balance which is still a ways back.
I`m getting the best sound I`ve ever had but this time next year I shall have a new deck. Time to let the Roksan off of the heavy lifting and get a new deck which will take things to the next level with a confident stride.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Crazy Bill the Eel Killer on 10/07/16 at 01:25:18

Hello all,
Got a new ZP3 in house, and a new table and arm, so I thought I'd post some very early impressions.

Old table that was replaced ( and soon on the chopping block ) was a Feickert Blackbird. Great table. I used it with the 12 inch Jelco that came with it, and my Fidelity Research FR66s. While we all know aural memory is nothing to rely on, this set-up did things I don't ever recall my VPI Aries MK1 doing. Really great analog set-up. Was completely happy, with no thought of ever changing anything.

Then a great deal on a really upper crust table fell into my lap that I could not turn down. I've got the new Amazon Grand Referenz table here, and I mounted a Moerch DP8 on it. Right now, since I'm using the ZP3, I'm using an Audio Technica AT150MLX, as it's the only high output cartridge I have. I've got some microphone input transformers in house that I'll eventually wire up so I can put my Midas bodied Denon DL103r and Koetsu Rosewood into play.

Until then, all I can say is that my vinyl rig is sounding sublime, and I know I'm no where near optimal set-up. I aligned the cartridge with my
MF Geodisc, and while its close, I know there's room for improvement. I ordered a Mint protractor, but Yip sent me the protractor for the 9 inch wand, and I've got the 12 inch version here. A new one shipped out today. After that arrives I'll attempt to really dial in the set-up.

The point of all this rambling is two-fold.

First, The Amazon Grand Referenz/Moerch DP8 combo is a significant step up from the Feickert/ Fidelity Research combo. I'm going to have to make an arm board to mount the Fidelity Research on the Amazon to compare to the Moerch. Should prove interesting.

Second, while I've got some hum in the ZP3 I've got to track down, there is something going on here that is hard to describe. I guess the best way to put it is that I get totally lost in the music. I put a record on, lower the arm, and the next thing I know is the side is done, I'm lifting the arm, and I've got a smile on my face and no recollection of the details of the music. Just lost.

Will have to compare the ZP3 to my Sonic Frontiers Phono 1 w/ SE+ upgrades and see what gives. But based upon my memories of the SF, and what I hear from the ZP3, I don't expect the SF will stay in the mix long.

More to follow,

Cheers, Crazy Bill :)

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by hdrider on 10/07/16 at 12:06:26

Bill- Very nice update and congrats on the score of the table. The hum I had when I installed our ZP3 ended up just being related to where it was located in the rack. A little re-arranging and then silence….except for music. Keep us posted and I really want to hear about the tone arm comparison, I still like my FR64S. Happy listening, Chris.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Crazy Bill the Eel Killer on 10/08/16 at 04:40:44

hdrider,

thanks for the insight.
The first thing I'll try is obviously the infamous ground loop. While I'm feeding everything into a Burmester 648 power conditioner and that should't be an issue, you never know. I'll play and see what happens.

After that ( which I have to try but I don't believe is the culprit ), I'll have to address rack placement. A much more probable cause for the noise. My rack is very busy with a lot of stuff, and placement could very well be the issue.

I'll do some playing around and see what happens.

Cheers, Crazy Bill

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Crazy Bill the Eel Killer on 10/12/16 at 03:31:15

Hello Chris,
Tomorrow my wife goes to work and I don't, so I'll be able to get some serious playtime on my rig.

Moved the ZP3 around a bit, and the hum lowered some as I moved it. Didn't disappear entirely, but I think I know the culprit. (Amazon table PS directly under the ZP3 ). I'm going to rearrange the table and PS and the ZP3. Hopefully that will do it.

Got some other things going on ( NOS mint Shure V15 type lll with a Jico SAS stylus in route ). I'll report back on that also.

More to come as I dial it in.

Cheers, Crazy Bill

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by hdrider on 11/12/16 at 15:06:45

Bill- It's been a month, did the ZP3 get settled in ok? I had my usual Friday night vinyl listen with my buddy and played through some Pink Floyd, Refreshments (Roger Clyne) and a few others and just got totally lost in the music. My buddy loves coming over (next door) and listening, claims the whole systems is actually an art project but for the ears (also for the eyes, he loves the tubes glowing). What's new? Happy listening, Chris.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Crazy Bill the Eel Killer on 11/14/16 at 02:00:10

Hello Chris,
Don't get a chance to get much listening in, but there has been movement.
First, I did move the Amazon PS and the hum is still there, but not objectionable. Right now I'm spinning Leonard Cohen through my Stax rig ( still in mourning on his loss )and I cannot hear any hum while music is playing ( and the presentation is quite sublime, BTW ). I have not yet taken a stab at improving the set-up of the AT150MLX, as I don't have time. But the proper mint tractor is in house, and I'm hoping to get to it soon. I really want to get the AT as good as I can, as the Shure V15III is here with the Jelco SAS stylus, and I want to set up the AT properly before I change over to the Shure/SAS to compare.

I inquired about the cost of a new arm board for the Amazon/FR66s combo, and the importer jokingly said " don't ask ", but he actually wasn't joking. S I've decided to fashion my own arm board to mount the FR66s.

It's going to take time before I get that done, but I well eventually be able to do a comparison. I'm really hoping the FR66s is as good as the Moerch, or so close where I won't notice the difference if the Moerch goes.

The Moerch is VERY GOOD, but so is the FR66s. I haven't listened to the FR66s in over a year, so I can't even attempt to make any comparisons from memory.

Setting up the FR66s is a cakewalk compared to the Moerch. While the Moerch does have interchangeable arm tubes so you can change cartridges, it's no where as easy as the FR66s w/ interchangeable headshells.

I have a lot of mono records, so I would like to be able to get a real mono cartridge in the mix.

By no means Chris should you think of ever giving up on your FR64s. It IS a world class tonearm by all accounts. You should peruse the AUDIOGON forums as there is a great deal of info on the FR tonearms. Unless you're already familiar w/ that info, you can get even better performance from the FR.

Much more to go, but I've got to get up @ 0500 hrs. for work.

Ciao for now.

Cheers, Crazy Bill :'(

The cry emotive is for the loss of Leonard Cohen. If there are those of you out there unfamiliar w/ him, please do yourself a favor and get familiar.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by jorgen on 01/06/17 at 23:27:07

I'm using a 1978 Thorens 160mk2, an upgraded Mission 774 tonearm, upgraded with silver wire, cardas RCA connectors. A 2m black cartridge that suits the ZP3 very nice. The deck have been upgraded for less noise.

Was supposed to be just a cheap intro to vinyl... now I can't even consider selling it, way to much invested compared to selling value.. but no worries I like what I'm hearing. Somewhere down the line I want to try a VPI or Dr.Feickert or similar, but at the moment I can't defend the extra cost vs quality. Need more vinyl more.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by hdrider on 01/07/17 at 06:11:41

Jorgen- Enjoy what you have, it sounds like a wonderful rig. Too many people getting caught up in the gear and forgetting the music. We spend a wonderful evening listening to records, never once thinking what the hell the gear was. Happy listening, Chris.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by riknbkr330 on 01/14/17 at 05:37:12

Rega P5 with Groovetracer mods (spindle and counterweight); Dynavector 20X2L cart going into a Parks Audio budgie, then that goes into a Musical Surroundings Phonomena II. Very, very happy with this setup. I'm amazed with every record I play in my collection, which spans 40years of collecting. In fact, as I'm writing this, I'm on my fifth hour of spinning vinyl. This going into my Rachael and Omega speakers makes me a very happy Audiophile. :)

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by SonicSeeker on 01/14/17 at 22:46:22

Just ordered this
http://www.soundstagedirect.com/vpi-classic-3-rosewood-turntable.shtml
I am replacing my 80's vintage Sota.
I called Sota Friday to enquire about there new stuff but no answer and no call back so I ordered what I couldn't stop thinking about.
Hope I like it.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by hdrider on 01/15/17 at 15:48:12

Sonic- Nice looking table, let us know your impression when it arrives. What cartridge are you putting on it? Happy listening, Chris.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by JD on 01/15/17 at 16:05:34

That is the exact table at the top of my dream list. Make sure to post impressions, a true work of art. Also very curious about your cart as well.

JD

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by SonicSeeker on 01/15/17 at 16:53:01

I will be using a 2M black.
I hope some day to try a moving coil but I would need the ZMC also to do that and I have totally shot my audio funds for a while.
New table should be here this week.
This was my dream table also.
I am glad I was able to get the Rosewood because once they are gone I guess they won't be making them anymore and there are apparently only a few left according to soundstage direct.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by SonicSeeker on 01/19/17 at 19:07:40

Does anyone else HATE UPS!
I have never ending issues with them, from destroyed shipments left in the driveway in the snow and rain when I have a covered porch one step up, sure they didn't want to let me know they were there, to broken abused equipment etc.
Last week they changed my delivery date three times and it needed a signature, not cool.
Now this week they forgot one of the packages from a multiple package shipment at the station, whoops, that also needs someone home to sign for it. I am sure we all can take time from work whenever it suits us so this is no problem right.
At least we can call customer support and let them tell us repeatedly how sorry they are and then say it will be there between 7am and 7 pm tomorrow, good window. So my new turntable will be here today and tomorrow, YAY!
Sorry had to vent before my head exploded.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by mark58 on 01/19/17 at 19:47:15

LOL...I feel your PAIN! ;D ;D

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by SonicSeeker on 01/21/17 at 15:45:16

The second part of my turntable arrived last night.
Stayed up until two in the morning setting it all up and was not able to spin an album because everyone was in bed of course and they still are even after my not so subtle attempts at making noise this morning, not too much don't want to anger the bear ;)
I am going to have to go in there soon and take my chances, cant wait much longer.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by SonicSeeker on 01/21/17 at 16:34:12

They are up!
First spin, Roxy Music Avalon.
The sound so far, Clear clean tight and full, lots of air and space in the music, music is all around me.
I have many new things at the same time, ZSTAGE, VPI, and new interconnects but the sum total seems to be working quite well.
Much better so far than where I was.
I really like the simplicity of my system with the TORII JR the ZSTAGE and the modded ZP3.
So incredibly clear and clean, I guess already said that.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by hdrider on 01/21/17 at 17:04:13

Sonic- Congrats !!! A beautiful looking table and rig. I always found that if I added something to the system and played some of Gigi's favorite music instead of some of my more ''esoteric'' taste I would get a warmer reception from her. Keep us posted on how things settle in. Happy listening, Chris.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Ron on 01/22/17 at 11:30:26

Sonic -

Congrats! Looks awesome, I bet it sounds incredible. Have you compared with and without the ZSTAGE?

I am starting with Thorens TD-150 > ZP3 > TORII JR > HR-1... deciding CSP3 or maybe just ZSTAGE...

Anyway, congrats and happy listening!

-Ron

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by JD on 01/22/17 at 14:37:06

Enjoy!

JD

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Acetone on 01/22/17 at 17:09:28

Hey Sonic, awesome looking system. I have a Zstage coming soon. Would love to hear your thoughts on how it impacts your system. What cart do you have in the TT?
acetone

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by SonicSeeker on 01/22/17 at 18:30:27

Ortofon 2M black

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by SonicSeeker on 01/22/17 at 18:32:30

Acetone go to the ZSTAGE section for my impressions.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Jeff of Arabica on 01/27/17 at 03:03:41

Just picked up a new London Decca Super Gold cartridge for my custom wood Radgear turntable. It will be affixed to my Tri Art Audio TA-2 uni-pivot dampened tonearm.

Once I get it and install it I will report back for anyone interested in Decca phono cartridges.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by mark58 on 01/28/17 at 15:52:25

I thought I'd point out that a Rega RP6 with Exact II cart is for sale on audiogon. I use a black one that I paid $1500 plus $50 shipping for. My only question for the seller would be how much use has the cart had. I haven't tweaked mine yet but it does a great job. I might first buy the belt upgrade. Oh, lastly, I'd offer the seller less that he's asking ;) Mark.

https://www.audiogon.com/listings/turntables-rega-rp6-includes-cartridge-free-shipping-sweet-2017-01-26-analog-78704-austin-tx

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Syd on 01/30/17 at 10:18:23

Very interested in the sound of the Decca.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Paul64 on 02/18/17 at 23:37:00

Hi All! Finally posting for my Christmas present. Wife let me get a VPI Prime, now have probably 200 hrs on it. Playing just about everything you can think of. FANTASTIC! My old table was Technics SL1200 which I bought in '93 and I thought was actually quite good. But the Prime blows it out of the water and makes it sound like a child's toy. Using a ZP3 through a Torii 4 with a Soundsmith Zephyr 3 cart and just amazed! Crazy how good vinyl sounds even old used stuff.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Archie on 02/19/17 at 01:22:05

Quote:

My old table was Technics SL1200 which I bought in '93 and I thought was actually quite good. But the Prime blows it out of the water and makes it sound like a child's toy.

Just curious, was that 1200 TT stock?

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by lLance on 02/19/17 at 05:12:53

Paul64,

Wow, you just went from SL1200 to a VPI Prime and I just sold my VPI Scout 1.1 with Soundsmith Zepher and bought a SL1200GAE with an Audio Technia ART9. As good as the Scout is the new SL1200GAE with ART9 blows it away. It looks like the old SL1200 but under the hood is another story, the coreless direct drive motor is dead quiet and consistent.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Archie on 02/19/17 at 18:52:10

ILance,

I'm excited for you with your GAE! :D

I've been following that TT on the Steve Hoffman Forum for a long time and others share your experience/enthusiasm. I run a fully KAB modified (and a couple of my own) 1200 MK2 and I couldn't be happier -- well maybe with a GAE. ;) Funny thing is, ten years ago I had an order in on a Scout but I cancelled it to get the Technics!

The stock 1200s were, and still are fantastic TTs, but with a few weak points, such as tonearm wiring and power supply. There might be a few things to try on your GAE that might bring it up even higher. Tonearm damping and strobe disabling are two that come to mind; not sure about an outboard power supply given the new design. Of course, even more TT isolation can never hurt.

I love the overall user simplicity and convenience of the Technics design too. It gets me playing more music.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Paul64 on 02/19/17 at 21:46:20

Hey Archie. My SL1200 is stock except I did add the tone arm dampening trough and also upgraded the feet....but neither made a big impact. Last few years I have looked at rewiring the whole table but decided against that route and went with the Prime instead. Not knocking the original SL1200 but the Prime in my system was an amazing upgrade and no regrets. Lots of great turntables out there for sure!

Regards,
Paul

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Archie on 02/19/17 at 22:02:02

Paul,

I've thought on TT design a bit and I've wondered what makes a good TT vs. not so good. I think if vibration (internal and external) is eliminated and the speed is maintained true and constant then most of the battle is over. Most of KAB's mods seem to deal with electrical interference. My 1200 is heavily modified and hopefully outperforms a stock table. What I guess is most impressive is what it takes to beat a stock 1200, which were selling in the range $500 when discontinued. Even Technics gets $4k for the 1200G that they replaced the 1200 with.

I've not heard a bad thing about the VPI Prime table! I'm not familiar with the cart you are using. Is it a MI, MM or MC? I did get a nice lift when I went MC last year.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Paul64 on 02/19/17 at 23:37:20

When I bought my 1200 in 1993 I paid $295. Definitely a steal and thoroughly worth it. I think those days are over when a company can produce a million units and thus keep the price down for a high quality audio component.

I think you are asking about the cart I'm using on my Prime...it's a MI...2mV output.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Archie on 02/20/17 at 01:20:40

Paul,

What phono stage and amp do you have? Do you use a preamp? Wondering because of a recent discussion on what works with the ZP3.

I think you cold sell the 1200 now for twice what you paid!

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Archie on 03/28/17 at 00:59:27

Here is Michael Fremer's recent review of the new Technics 1200G TT.

http://www.analogplanet.com/content/technics-direct-drive-sl-1200g-turntable#hxMh9iY5ZPkdDs3p.97

He liked it a lot. :)

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Midnight on 04/07/17 at 22:15:56

Technics SL-1200MK2 2008 Black w/ Ortofon Concorde Night Club Cartridge + Stylus

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Victor S on 11/22/17 at 14:45:22

I have a ClearAudio Concept with Dynavector 10x5 Cartridge with Clearaudio phono. :)

Does anybody use the Decware Gain Stage connected to a Turntable?

Regards

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Archie on 11/22/17 at 16:18:50

Victor,

I use a CSP3 after my TT which I think would be considered a Decware Gain Stage. It adds density, that I like. Also, it boosts the signal going into my amp so I get the full volume potential.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Jeff of Arabica on 11/22/17 at 16:38:07

Similarly, I use the Ultra preamp after my phono stage for added gain with the benefits that Archie mentioned. The ZSTAGE would add nice tube-based gain, but would not have the same level of "tube love" and sonic benefits of say a CSP3. If you are simply looking for additional, neutral gain without mucking up the signal, the ZSTGE would be a fantastic addition. I have one myself, and have placed it after my phono stage when I was running everything off my ZSB to my ZMA directly. It performs excellently. Shortly after purchasing my ZSTAGE I decided to insert my Ultra ahead of the ZMA and that is where my system currently stands.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Boxertwin on 11/22/17 at 22:45:03

Thorens 145, all stock. Hagerman Labs Bugle phono stage that sounds pretty good, I guess. I built it from the kit until I decide if I like vinyl enough to get a ZP3. Would love Dave Archambault at Vinyl Nirvana to work his magic on the TT to see what difference it makes. I have lots of good old vinyl that I took good care of since high school. I usually listen to high res streaming on Tidal.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by DirtDawg on 11/23/17 at 07:24:28

I have three.

Two old Dual and one Technics.

Honestly I listen to the one with the lowest "ratings" most often.

It is a direct drive, semi-automatic Dual from the early '80s.
I had to add some car door deadening material to its innards to keep the low frequency feedback from annoying me after I discovered real low frequencies.

I intend to upgrade my pre-amp, before I even consider looking at any other turntables.
They all work well.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Victor S on 11/24/17 at 07:18:08

Thank you Archie and Jeff :)

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by jimmieg on 11/27/17 at 16:26:12

I have a VPI Scout 1.1 with an Ortofon Quintet Bronze. Phono stage is Aqvox Phono 2Ci mk ll, running balanced.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by trusturears on 12/01/17 at 01:41:34

Rega RP6 w/Exact 2

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by HockessinKid on 12/01/17 at 01:50:35

Nottingham Interspace w/ heavy platter, modified Rega RB300 arm and Dynavector 20x2 LO cartridge. I have this paired with a Dynavector P75MKII phono preamp and iFi Micro iTube2 Tube Buffer/Pre-Amplifier (just use the buffer setting).

HK

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by jpv on 12/06/17 at 02:26:21

I have already replied to this post but I have two photos I'd like to share.
The VPI Scout Master with some White vinyl playing. My youngest daughter bought her first LP :).
The next photo is the Grado Sonata v2 I just installed

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by jpv on 12/06/17 at 02:31:30

Photo of the Grado Sonata V2

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by jmain on 05/18/18 at 16:32:30

Upgraded AR XA here.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Showme on 06/05/18 at 23:21:51

I have a Dual 1229 and a Thoren's TD-124. I just acquired a ebony Yamamota wooden headshell and would appreciate cartridge suggestions for the Thorens. It currently has a Audio Technica cartridge although I don't know which one that sounds pretty good to me. I have a Goldring 10-20 that was given to me that doesn't have a stylus. I hesitate to by a $300 stylus not knowing if the cartridge is good or not. Is there anyway to tell?

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Archie on 06/05/18 at 23:56:50

I think the part that wears out is the stylus and suspension which are both part of what you'd be replacing. The cartridge windings should be fine.

If you want to stay with moving magnet carts, the Ortofon Black or OM40 are both excellent.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Showme on 06/06/18 at 01:00:45

Thanks, I'm not to well versed in cartridge knowledge.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Jeff of Arabica on 06/06/18 at 08:31:11

Showme,
Great question and very universal concern. However, I feel that in order for us to best advise, it would be helpful to know what genre of music you hold to the highest, and what aural attributes are most appealing. Cartridges are as unique as people. There are a ton of folks on this forum that are extremely pleased with the cartridges they have adopted, but that does not guarantee success in your vinyl rig based on what you may tend to covet when it comes to sound quality.

What is the majority makeup, genre-wise, of your current vinyl collection?

What sound attributes are most important? (transparency, dynamics, treble sparkle, bass, etc)

I have gone through too many cartridges before realizing that I need to better define some things before engaging in a more focused, purposeful search for the right cartridge.

Jeff

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Showme on 06/06/18 at 14:33:51

Jeff thanks for your response. I'll try to address a few of the questions. The two systems that have turntables both use Marantz receivers. A 2325 and a 2230. I'm 72 and so I listen to a lot of older music. I'm not too avant garde. Nora Jones, Boz Scaggs, Chris Isaak, Dire Straits etc. I wish I knew more about addressing your questions than I do but maybe that's a start. My other two rigs are tube amp setups with out turntables. One is a Zen with Betsy's playing CD's and streaming Tidal the other is a Scott 299D just playing CD's along with a tuner.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Carol on 07/09/18 at 11:19:21

Rega Rp3

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Crazy Bill the Eel Killer on 07/24/18 at 02:07:06

Hello all,
A lot has happened since the original musings about the Amazon Grand Referenz/ Moerch DP8 combo. Tried the Fidelity Research FR66S on that table, and to my ears, a slight improvement over the Moerch. Though I could easily see others preferring the Moerch. A taste preference, if you will.

Both the Moerch and FR66s are gone now. A new king has arrived.

I have a 12 inch Riggle Universal Woody tonearm mounted on the Amazon Grand Referenz, using the AT 150MLX. This is, without a doubt, the absolute best and most natural and realistic music reproduction I have ever heard. Listening to an early first pressing Island pink rim Traffic " John Barleycorn Must Die ", I am completely lost and immersed.
I'm done.

Cheers, Crazy Bill

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by out-of-step on 09/13/18 at 19:01:30

An early Well Tempered 'Table. They use silicone suspension instead of bearings. On the down sides, set up is unorthodox and dampening is via fluid level so one may never be satisfied it's set up 'perfectly', it's tricky moving them (fluid again), the arm wiring seems no heavier than a hair so pins will almost certainly break off when you remove a cart and the original matte black finish can wear right off. On the plus side, I find the sound quality excellent with the right cart. It's remarkably free of resonances and about as quiet a 'table as can be had. Looks like this one (not my photo) but the motor block on mine is square:

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by TimB on 10/22/18 at 22:16:52

I've got a MoFi StudioDeck with DL-103R cart. I love it! It's got one little quirk with regards to VTA, but what do you expect for rev. 1. Nothing a custom headshell shim couldn't fix.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by BBM3 on 12/23/18 at 04:18:45

Rega P1 sitting on three Vibrapod model 2's, a Silicone platter mat, and a 13oz clamp / weight. Great sounding for a very low budget.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by meteor on 12/23/18 at 20:37:00

AR XA with a Denon DL 103 MC cartridge. Love the classic look and the Made in USA sound.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by meteor on 12/23/18 at 20:43:18

Also a VPI Cliffwood with stock Grado Green VPI MI cartridge
It's fairly new so I'm still out on how much I like its sound.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Syd on 01/04/19 at 21:47:54

This is my front end set up that's delivering the goods to the Decware amps. Very nice it is too ! Well engineered piece of kit. :)

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by urbino on 02/08/22 at 04:07:01

Hi, all.

Mine's a Michell GyroDec SE. I got it secondhand from a guy who was selling it because his cats couldn't stop swatting the platter weights as they spun. [smiley=lolk.gif]

I've had it about 10 years or so. Haven't felt a desire to upgrade, so far.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by effluviography on 02/27/22 at 00:42:20

The zombie thread is back - cheers.

My main rig is simple - Pioneer PLX-1000 with a Ortofon 2M Black, herbies mat into a ZP3 with a range of NOS tubes. Sounds lovely - and a HUGE improvement over my previous Pro-ject table.

God bless direct drive tables :).

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Richie_C on 03/16/22 at 01:12:51

Rega RP10 w Alpheta cart (MC) into Rega Aria Phono

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Giggsy on 03/16/22 at 01:26:07

SME 10 with SME V arm and Lyra Kleos cart.
Had the table for 14yrs, arm for 26yrs, no desire to change.
Had a Pink Triangle Anniversary before the SME 10 but it got trashed on the move to the USA.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by mperdue63 on 03/16/22 at 02:58:57

Sota Nova VI Walnut table, Jelco 950 arm, Dynavector 20X2H cart.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by CAJames on 03/17/22 at 03:36:36

Maplenoll Athena (air bearing) arm and 'table. Sumiko Pearwood cartridge.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by JBzen on 03/21/22 at 12:55:41

1978 JVC QL-F4 with Ortofon 2M Bronze. Mid range for the time. Steady as a rock. Earmarked for a new plinth, tonearm and output wire, and isolation. When time permits.

John

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Jeffrey S on 03/27/22 at 22:26:44

I have a simple setup.

TEAC TN-300 > Ortofon 2M Blue > Schiit Mani

Not too fancy but it serves me well.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by 4krow on 04/16/22 at 22:53:06

Been living with Schiit SOL. You 'learn a lot' with a TT like this.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by 4krow on 08/30/22 at 00:09:36

As stated in my previous post, I am learning the do's and don'ts one at a time. My old house unsteady floors as shown by record skips when i walk in certain areas around the TT. Wall mount was a great idea, and I believe that I like the sound a little better. No, there were not Vast Improvements before and after, but i did solve one problem and that satisfies me.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by kulafu on 12/17/22 at 12:38:31

Continuing this thread....I was looking into vintage TTs (Linn, SOTA, Thorens) but I ended up getting a Thorens 1600 (demo) at less than half the retail price at a local store. MC ATOC9XEN cartridge and phono stage is Musical Fidelity M6 Vinyl. Paired with audiophile vinyl, this TT is on the same level if not better than my Holo May KTE! I am looking at the Hana ML moving coil cartridge as an upgrade. I have seen great reviews on the Hana ML. Anyone have any personal experience they can share?
Bob

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Tal on 12/21/22 at 23:59:43

4K, how do like the Sol TT? I've used Schiit components in the past, and was intrigued by the Sol when it released. I believe Shiit subsequently made changes to the Sol based user feedback?

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by 4krow on 12/23/22 at 20:07:15

Well, compared to previous TT's the SOL ranks at #2. I had owned a VPI Scout years ago with Grado Sonata cart. It was great in every respect. The SOL however is neck and neck with that combination. I am using an AT95SM?, I forget but it isn't a very expensive cart at $200. I know that there is more to be had with maybe a better cart alignment or even a different cartridge. I have checked the SOL for speed accuracy and it is dead on.
Now fortunately, the SOL that I got had every improvement that Schiit had to offer through the feedback process. Having said that, there were 3 things that I dealt with. Most importantly, was the cueing mechanism dropped the stylus about mid way down! It was simple fix after I figured out the hang up with the cueing lobe. Then I dealt with the power switch that was on the back of the TT. Bad place for it. Made switch box and the problem was gone. I still have not dealt with the VTA adjustment that slips during adjustment! The cure will be to replace the stripped nylon gear with a brass one. Probably not going to be easy to find someone to do this for a decent price. Once the VTA is set though there is really no use for it.
I should also mention that I have wall mounted the TT with great results. It is that my wooden floor flexes slightly and the TT/arm doesn't do well with that. In short I would say that when things are made to be right this TT has great potential.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by charles hidalgo on 10/24/23 at 21:17:08

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Rap on 10/28/23 at 03:25:57

Have a few...
About 8 different types of Lenco´s the swiss made ones
Emt 938
Thorens 125 LB (also made by EMT)
Logic DM101

various arms and carts MC and MM

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Tony on 10/28/23 at 04:55:18

Rap, that's a lot of TT!

As a guy who has none, I am curious - are all in use? Do different TT serve different functions? I'm not going to sleep tonight trying to figure this out. :)

Tony

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Rap on 10/29/23 at 02:50:16

Hi Tony,

No not all in use, plan was to have 2 in use and rest are kind of accumulated. Lot of Lenco´s are spares and just plain couldn´t pass by Swiss-made TT´s for $20 at European fleamarkets few years back after that´s it´s was case of "who passes up a pair of EMT´s for $200 and same for the Thorens TD124 LB, It is fun to restore them and get them running and compare them with each other, these are just the ones that never got moved on and maybe one day I´ll have the room and time to set up more of them... You do get to know a lot about the fundamental´s of each TT drive systems, arms, carts ect and that´s part of the fun.

Rap (not a hoarder of TT´s [smiley=10.gif] )

hmm maybe I do need to seek some help....

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by cmdc on 10/29/23 at 23:34:56

Currently in use:

Thorens TD 124 in slate/panzerholz plinth, with Kuzma 4Pt9 and Ortofon MC Diamond cart

Thorens TD 124 in Moldovan birch plinth, with two tonearms. [1] SME 3009 S2 Imp with Koetsu Rosewood Signature; and [2] Moerch DP6 with Aidas Durawood Bee

Thorens TD 125 Mk II, original plinth, with SME 3009 S2 Imp and Clearaudio Charisma cart.

Thorens TD 150, with TP16a tone arm (IIRC) and Grado cart.

Project T1 (son’s room), with Ortofon 2M Bronze

Not in use at the moment

SOTA Sapphire, with Sumiko MMT arm
Thorens TD 160 BC Mk II, with ADC LMF 2 tone arm
Clearaudio Champion

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Lazlo Hollyfeld on 10/31/23 at 18:36:21

I hope to have a ZP3 and SE84UFO2 delivered in November (fingers crossed as I near the two-year mark), which will be paired with my restored Marantz 6300, usually paired with a Denon DL-103 cart. I"m using a Rogue RP-1 as a phono pre, a FIrst Watt J2 powering a set of Zu DW6 Supremes. Curious to see how the J2 and Zen Triode differ, and the ZP3 vs. the Rogue for that matter. I suspect the Marantz, despite its good looks, is probably the weak point in the chain and am looking forward to hearing some new tables at Capital Audiofest in a couple of weeks! The 6300 is a hold over from an all-vintage alternate system paired with a Marantz 1060 as phono/pre and a 140 amp driving Sansui SP-X9000 speakers (all restored).

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by The other Lon on 10/31/23 at 19:39:28

One beautifully restored Thorens TD125. I can only hope my Torii and ZP3 can match the Paduak.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Tony on 10/31/23 at 21:09:15

Lon,

It is not every day I see a picture of a turntable and respond with "Beautiful.' Today I did.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by travel250 on 01/03/24 at 20:30:23

Thorens TD124 rebuilt by STS Turntables (Tenn.)
SME 3009 Imp rebuilt by SMETonearms (Canada)
Shure V15 Type III

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Crazy Bill the Eel Killer on 01/03/24 at 22:39:06

Hello Travel,
I also use a Shure V15lll, preferring it to every other cartridge I've tried, including much more expensive MC types.

What stylus do you use. I've got a JICO SAS on mine. It completely trounces the stock stylus, and the one I have is mint.

Cheers, Crazy Bill

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by chapsjon on 01/04/24 at 00:48:35

Another fan of the Shure V15III here. I am currently using a JICO elliptical on mine. I have several carts I use, but this is my primary cart. Tracks wonderfully and always sounds good.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by travel250 on 01/04/24 at 01:23:24

I've just recently replaced my stylus with a Jico SAS, and yes it sounds excellent.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by GroovySauce on 01/04/24 at 17:08:35

Acoustic Signature Maximus NEO, ViV Lab Ridged Float 9", Hana ML, Herbies GrungeBuster mat and Wave Kinetics W8.

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Eightweight on 02/07/24 at 01:45:22

Linn LP12 that was about 20 years or more old, I bought it and within a week motor failed and the board, took out to a Linn specialist downtown Chicago and $6,000 later its working great
Completely upgraded

Have say I think it was worth it

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by Eightweight on 02/07/24 at 01:47:20

Title: Re: What kind of turntable do you have?
Post by TexJ on 04/24/24 at 02:57:23

Project T2. I’m cool with it.