Jelco 250st first impressions

[Beobloke]

Hi Giovanni,

However, the 250S should be just as good as a 250ST

Unfortunately it isn't. Measurement of the arm's vibrational characteristics show it to be markedly inferior to the straight and well damped tube of the SA-250ST and this translates into a sound that is less well focsed and comparatively lacking in drive.

The same is not true, of course, of the SA-750D.

[Marco]

Hi Adam,

Thanks for the info. If you've tested it, then fair enough

I'm simply rallying against the age-old bias in Europe (particularly in the UK) against S-shaped tonearms with detachable headshells, where often such bias isn't sonically justified.

Marco.

[Gdg]

Unfortunately it isn't. Measurement of the arm's vibrational characteristics show it to be markedly inferior to the straight and well damped tube of the SA-250ST and this translates into a sound that is less well focsed and comparatively lacking in drive.

The same is not true, of course, of the SA-750D.

That's interesting, thank you Adam.
So, if I want a replaceable headshell I have to go for the 750D, no alternatives...

[Marco]

Hi Giovanni,

Ortofon also produce a re-badged Jelco SA-750D at double the price, which apparently has a better damped armtube.

There is also the classic Acos Lustre GST 801 (shown below), if you can find one in good condition




Marco.

[Gdg]

Hi Giovanni,

Ortofon also produce a re-badged Jelco SA-750D at double the price, which apparently has a better damped armtube.

There is also the classic Acos Lustre GST 801, if you can find one in good condition

Marco.

Hi Marco,
I just need a not-so-expensive tonearm, with a replaceable headshell, to play with, but I don't want to get a used one. I guess the only choice is the Jelco SA 750D.

[Marco]

I can't think of any others off the top of my head, but I can contend from personal experience that the 750D is a superb tonearm, and punches way above its weight, sonically. It's unquestionably a £1000 tonearm with a £450 price tag.

I've just fitted my new Ortofon SPU Royal GM to it and, goodness me, what a superb combination that is - undoubtedly one of the finest I've heard!

Currently spining The Beatles 'Help' album, and the music has never sounded so natural and believable through my equally vintage Tannoys!

Marco.

[Gdg]

I can't think of any others off the top of my head, but I can contend from personal experience that the 750D is a superb tonearm, and punches way above its weight, sonically.

I've just fitted my new Ortofon SPU Royal GM to it and, goodness me, what a superb combination that is - undoubtedly one of the finest I've heard!

Currently enjoying The Beatles 'Help' album, and the music has never sounded so natural and believable through my equally vintage Tannoys!

Marco.

Marco, I know the Jelco 750D is a very good choice (since I have a DL103SA, it is the *best* choice, too), but I'll wait for a little more, to see if some 12'' arm solution for the 1200 will arise somewhere. Otherwise I'll go for this http://www.trans-fi.com/terminatortonearm.htm
since you can swap very easily the tonearms, it is possible to change cartridges just like I want to do.

I asked Vic and he said the Terminator is a good companion for low compliance cartdridges, too.

What you think about that toneamr, Marco?

[The Vinyl Adventure]

I want a terminator for mine long term... Even just for a week ... I still say it's one of the coolest bits of kit I have ever seen!!

[Marco]

By all accounts, Giovanni, the Terminator is a superb tonearm. I've not heard one myself, but John (Music Room Mod) has on many occasions, and Vic is a personal friend of his, so John's your man for advice on that one

Marco.

[colinB]

Hi Marco, do you prefer the ortofon to your denon 103s ?