View Full Version : New Ortofon RS-212D tonearm, chez Marco
Hi Guys,
I'm due to pick up a 9" version of one of these babies on Thursday, to use on my Techy:
http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/8646/rs212d309db.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/141/rs212d309db.jpg/)
12" version shown here on an utterly gorgeous Pro-ject X-tension T/T:
http://img267.imageshack.us/img267/2751/projectxtensionortofonr.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/267/projectxtensionortofonr.jpg/)
For me, that is one of the loveliest looking new T/Ts I've seen in a long time! Nice clean, simple lines, but not drab or 'sober' looking either, like some black coloured T/Ts can be. I find SMEs a bit like that, and consequently somewhat 'soulless'.
And the Ortofon on a Dr. Feickert Woodpecker:
http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/6929/setup2003s.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/194/setup2003s.jpg/)
And on a TD-124:
http://img823.imageshack.us/img823/2401/unledmbn.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/823/unledmbn.png/)
http://img689.imageshack.us/img689/3368/ortofonrs212d.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/689/ortofonrs212d.png/)
http://img341.imageshack.us/img341/614/rs212dagain.png (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/341/rs212dagain.png/)
I'll be partnering the RS-212D with a new Ortofon SPU Classic GM (E) MkII:
http://img831.imageshack.us/img831/5666/unled15040.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/831/unled15040.jpg/)
Full report (with pics) to follow soon! :cool:
Marco.
alfie2902
16-11-2011, 00:15
Nice one Marco! Will look forward to your thoughts on the arm & new SPU.
Just out of interest can you squeeze a 10" arm on a SL-1210?
Cheers, dude. Probably, but I'm not going there! ;)
Marco.
alfie2902
16-11-2011, 01:12
You know it would make sense ;)
Beobloke
16-11-2011, 09:26
Very tasty Marco!
Incidentally, that "Audio Note turntable" is actually a Dr. Feickert Woodpecker...;)
Hi Alfie,
Lol - I'll do the 10/12" arm thing when I start the Gates project and have a plinth that can take three different tonearms! ;)
Perhaps I'll be the first person in the UK to max-out a Gates T/T? :)
Anyway, in the meantime, the Techy is foremost on my mind. I'm quite excited at the prospect of what the Ortofon/SPU GM (E) combo will do! Then, next year my Techy vinyl front-end will be completed with the arrival of an A23 Homage T1:
http://img839.imageshack.us/img839/925/auditorium23homage.jpg (http://img839.imageshack.us/i/auditorium23homage.jpg/)
Job done! :cool:
Marco.
Very tasty Marco!
Incidentally, that "Audio Note turntable" is actually a Dr. Feickert Woodpecker...;)
Ah, thanks for the clarification, Adam. I'll amend the details now. :)
You should try sometime to review that gorgeous Pro-ject X-tension, with the 12" Ortofon (perhaps with a Cadenza Black?), as I suspect that it would be a stunning combo!
Marco.
Audioman
16-11-2011, 11:34
Hope this is as good as it looks Marco. The cheaper Ortofon arm I believe is similar to the Jelco but this looks in another league. It would be interesting to compare with the SME arms of a similar price.
I think the Project X was reviewed by World some time ago but may be mistaken. Beobloke may be able to advise on this and it's quality. They also positively reviewed the Feickert which I believe has DD like pitch stability. Another similar looking TT is the new Dunlop/Systemdek. Getting to see/hear these is not easy these days due to limited dealership and lack of show attendance. One reason I have skipped shows in recent years as the range of exhibitors is limited or of limited interest. (unless you can afford trip to Munich or Singapore).
sq225917
16-11-2011, 11:55
Is it made by jelco?
Very nice looking arm, Marco. Have you committed to the A23 Homage T1 yet? I thought you were going to compare a loaner with the Hashimoto HM-7 first.
Will I be seeing the arm on Saturday?
Yes to the last question, although my new SPU may not have arrived yet. It will depend if it gets to the dealer's shop by tomorrow afternoon. If not, we'll be using one of your cartridges on the Ortofon, which will be just as interesting!
No, I haven't committed yet to the Homage - yup, want to hear your Hashimoto first :)
Just off out, chaps. Will respond to other replies later....
Marco.
selfaddict
16-11-2011, 13:18
I am interested in as well to hear your thoughts of the Ortofon, especially how it compares sonically to your old Jelco.
Hi Paul,
Hope this is as good as it looks Marco. The cheaper Ortofon arm I believe is similar to the Jelco but this looks in another league. It would be interesting to compare with the SME arms of a similar price.
Indeed... The RS-212D is £2100: http://www.audioaffair.co.uk/Ortofon-RS-212D-Tonearm/product_2703
So what's that, SME IV territory?
I didn't go for the Ortofon TA-110 (the one you're referring to) for the very reason you mention. It's basically a glorified Jelco SA750 - the RS-212D is rather more serious :)
I think the Project X was reviewed by World some time ago but may be mistaken. Beobloke may be able to advise on this and it's quality.
Ah, I see. No doubt that Adam will advise. I wonder if it was with the 12" RS-212D arm, though?
They also positively reviewed the Frickert which I believe has DD like pitch stability. Another similar looking TT is the new Dunlop/Systemdeck. Getting to see/hear these is not easy these days due to limited dealership and lack of show attendance. One reason I have skipped shows in recent years as the range of exhibitors is limited or of limited interest. (unless you can afford trip to Munich or Singapore).
Not heard any of those T/Ts, but I know what you mean about shows. These days I can't really be arsed with shows (other than Scalford), as I'm not the slightest bit interested in mainstream hi-fi, and so the small 'boutique' brands and 'oddball' gear I like are rarely represented, or not represented enough to pique my interest in attending.
I'd love to go to the Munich show, though, one year - and I will do that some day! :cool:
Marco.
hifi_dave
16-11-2011, 16:42
SME IV is £1647 retail inc VAT.
Hi Simon,
Is it made by jelco?
Yes, I believe so, but to a much higher standard of construction than the tonearms that they sell under their own name :)
Juha, you'll be reading all about it soon - don't worry! :cool:
Marco.
SME IV is £1647 retail inc VAT.
Ah, so how much as an SME V, then, Dave?
Marco.
Audioman
16-11-2011, 17:19
Hi Paul,
Not heard any of those T/Ts, but I know what you mean about shows. These days I can't really be arsed with shows (other than Scalford), as I'm not the slightest bit interested in mainstream hi-fi, and so the small 'boutique' brands and 'oddball' gear I like are rarely represented, or not represented enough to pique my interest in attending.
I'd love to go to the Munich show, though, one year - and I will do that some day! :cool:
Marco.
Should get my spelling right -now corrected. Here is a link to thread on the new Systemdek produced by Doug Dunlops sons.
http://www.vinylengine.com/turntable_forum/viewtopic.php?t=27208
Nice thing about these they take 12" arms. Something Mitchell haven't been able to do though Dave Cawley came up with a mod for fitting the 12" Jelco. Whatever happened to that eh ? -and he doesn't do Jelco now. Not enough profit !! Pehaps I'm Cynical. SME charge an extra 5K for the privilege of being able to accomodate their 12" arms on their own TT.
Wakefield Turntables
16-11-2011, 18:00
Ah, so how much as an SME V, then, Dave?
Marco.
Over 2K + VAT :eek:
:clapclapclap::respect::goodluck::goodthread::wow:
Those Ortofon arms looks gorgeous! :)
You keeping the 'old' SPU GM, Marco or have you moved it on?
Hi Richard,
I've sold my old SPU to Barry, and the Jelco 750 to Canetoad (Bernie) :)
If Barry hadn't taken it, you were next on my list of 'first refusals'! I know you regret letting it go ;)
I'm hoping that the elliptical version will retain all the 'balls' and drive of the basic SPU, and add a soupçon more sparkly lurveliness at the top end, too!
Marco.
Over 2K + VAT :eek:
So the Ortofon, price-wise, is in between an SME IV and an V? It would be interesting to hear how it compares with both, sonically.... No doubt I'll get the opportunity to do that sometime :)
Marco.
hifi_dave
16-11-2011, 19:09
Ah, so how much as an SME V, then, Dave?
Marco.
SME Series V is £2391 inc VAT, that is unless you want the gold plated option..:rolleyes:
Lurvely - bring on the bling! :eyebrows:
So the Ortofon is kind of in the same ballpark as the V....
The bottom line, for me, is that the RS-212D is the ideal modern tonearm for an SPU. How it would perform with 'normal' cartridges, compared to an SME IV or V, I have no idea, and nor is it relevant in my circumstances.
I did toy with the idea of bagging an FR64, and had my eye on a few, but in the end I decided to go for the more practical 'low-maintenance' option, where I can guarantee the quality of the bearings, and which comes with an actual guarantee! :)
Marco.
Hi Richard,
I've sold my old SPU to Barry, and the Jelco 750 to Canetoad (Bernie) :)
If Barry hadn't taken it, you were next on my list of 'first refusals'! I know you regret letting it go ;)
I'm hoping that the elliptical version will retain all the 'balls' and drive of the basic SPU, and add a soupçon more sparkly lurveliness at the top end, too!
Marco.
Hey, no worries. A lovely old thing though, would've been interested to hear it on my Garrard - would I think give a new meaning to the word 'ballsy' in its musical presentation. :)
alfie2902
17-11-2011, 23:07
Lurvely - bring on the bling! :eyebrows:
So the Ortofon is kind of in the same ballpark as the V....
The bottom line, for me, is that the RS-212D is the ideal modern tonearm for an SPU. How it would perform with 'normal' cartridges, compared to an SME IV or V, I have no idea, and nor is it relevant in my circumstances.
I did toy with the idea of bagging an FR64, and had my eye on a few, but in the end I decided to go for the more practical low-maintenance option, where I can guarantee the quality of the bearings, and which comes with an actual guarantee! :)
Marco.
I'm really interested on how the RS-212D & SPU work on your 1210!
I quite fancy putting a 2nd arm on the Denon. It would mean a replinth though, but I did always plan to replinth it, the VPI Base was only going to be a starting point. Even with the FR's removeable headshells it's a royal PITA swapping from my SPU to 901, but I want to run two cartridges. It probably would make sense to keep the SPU on the FR & run a lighter arm for the Shelter or whatever other cart, but I quite fancy a 12" arm for the SPU & run the Shelter, or an AN Io if I can ever afford one, on the FR. I've been looking at the SME 3012R perhaps for the SPU, but seeing how you get on with the 212D will be interesting!
I understand where your coming from on buying an FR as it would be a gamble to some degree. We tried mine on speedysteve's SP10 last week with 3 SPU's & it sounded very nice indeed, so nice Steve's already bought one & is waiting for it's delivery. His horns are something quite special too!!!!
Nice one, Alfie... I'm literally just in the door, having driven just under 400 miles, going to pick up the arm and back from Simon at Hifisound in Stockton-on-Tees, and spending an excellent day there, so I'll reply properly after.
Just a quickie, in the meantime, do you know if Speedy Steve does bespoke T/T arm boards? :)
Marco.
P.S The Ortofon arm is stunning! :eek:
alfie2902
17-11-2011, 23:31
Nice one, Alfie... I'm literally just in the door, having driven just under 400 miles, going to pick up the arm and back from Simon at Hifisound in Stockton-on-Tees, and spending an excellent day there, so I'll reply properly after.
Just a quickie, in the meantime, do you know if Speedy Steve does bespoke T/T arm boards? :)
Marco
I'm excited for you! Put your feet up with a cup of tea or a nice glass of red & enjoy a good look at the arm.
I don't think Steve makes arm boards, but perhaps he can. PM him & ask mate.
Lol - will do, mate... I'll pop Steve a PM.
The first thing that strikes you about the Ortofon, before listening to it, is the phenomenal standard of engineering quality - it easily equals that of SME. In fact, I'd put it in the Graham Phantom league!
I think you'll agree when you see (and hear it) :)
Marco.
alfie2902
18-11-2011, 00:00
Do you need a new arm board then Marco? Do they have different mounting sizes?
Sounds very well engineered if comparable with the newer SME's & the Graham's, very nice! Will look forward to hearing it mate, is your TT going to Scalford or Martins?
Yes, we managed to modify the existing armboard to do a decent temporary job, but to do the job to the standard I would like, I'd need a new arm board making...
Yes, I'm going to Martin's on Saturday, and my T/T will also be at Scalford :)
Marco.
P.S I picked up one of the Funk platters, too, for the Techy. And the results we got with that were very interesting indeed ;)
pure sound
18-11-2011, 13:07
I think Steve made a nice gunmetal armboard for ISCoco's SP10 which he later bought off ISC. He uses that turntable himself now.
Hi Guy,
That's great - I'll defo give Steve a shout...
In the meantime, the new Ortofon arm is sounding none too shabby 'as is'... In fact, it's rather stunning! I think you'd like it :)
Simon (at HifiSound) was in raptures about it yesterday.
Marco.
It's a daft thing to say, but that arm has the right engineering look about it. You can tell it'll be special just from looking at its design and build.
Hi Guys,
I'm due to pick up a 9" version of one of these babies on Thursday, to use on my Techy:
http://img141.imageshack.us/img141/8646/rs212d309db.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/141/rs212d309db.jpg/)
Full report (with pics) to follow soon! :cool:
Marco.
Nice one, looks fandabbydozy.
:stalks:
pure sound
18-11-2011, 16:17
The black & silver aesthetic has hints of the Breuer or the TW Akustic about it. No bad thing.
I'd like to try the 12" version in place of the 750L at some point. Mind you, I'd also like to try the Ikeda 12" aswell!
Cheers guys... Here's some crappy pictures of it in situ, until I get a chance to photograph it properly:
http://img840.imageshack.us/img840/3752/img1080ed.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/840/img1080ed.jpg/)
http://img821.imageshack.us/img821/6713/img1081qt.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/821/img1081qt.jpg/)
http://img198.imageshack.us/img198/277/img1082ao.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/198/img1082ao.jpg/)
http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/8633/img1083oc.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/59/img1083oc.jpg/)
The pictures don't even begin to do it justice! :)
Marco.
P.S Also shown is the Funk Techy platter.
Cheers guys... Here's some crappy pictures of it in situ, until I get a chance to photograph it properly:
http://img840.imageshack.us/img840/3752/img1080ed.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/840/img1080ed.jpg/)
http://img821.imageshack.us/img821/6713/img1081qt.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/821/img1081qt.jpg/)
http://img198.imageshack.us/img198/277/img1082ao.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/198/img1082ao.jpg/)
http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/8633/img1083oc.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/59/img1083oc.jpg/)
The pictures don't even begin to do it justice! :)
Marco.
P.S Also shown is the Funk Techy platter.
Good to see you've already added strategically-placed 'audiophile' dust Marco. :eyebrows:
Its silver plated dust don't forget or it could actually be UP-OCC dust off his power cords!
Yesh, it's called 'wuffle dust'; essential in order for the magical properties of Mana to 'awaken'! :eyebrows:
Dave has called and collected your SPU. We had a nice trip into Wrexham, where I introduced him to Moonlight Records... See my purchases in the Spinning Today thread ;)
Marco.
pure sound
18-11-2011, 19:15
Do you fancy posting some needledrops of the new combination? It would be interesting to hear at least a taste of what it does?
prestonchipfryer
18-11-2011, 19:20
Certainly is very, very tasty. You'll be up late tonight Marco. :)
John
Dingdong
18-11-2011, 19:22
I just got a custom armdoard for my Techie off of Soundsupports if that's any help to you. Decent guys to deal with.
Do you fancy posting some needledrops of the new combination? It would be interesting to hear at least a taste of what it does?
Sure, Guy, but I'll wait until I get my new SPU. It should be here sometime during the week.... All I have at the moment are vintage MMs.
Barry's bought my old one (shown in the pic). The new one has an elliptical stylus, rather than a spherical one, so no doubt that will have a bearing on the results of any needledrops :)
Marco.
I just got a custom armdoard for my Techie off of Soundsupports if that's any help to you. Decent guys to deal with.
Hi Mark,
Interesting... Do you have a link or a contact number? It would be useful to see what they can do, although I quite like the idea of Steve doing something bespoke :)
Marco.
Certainly is very, very tasty. You'll be up late tonight Marco. :)
Normally, yes, but I need to get up early tomorrow to go down to Martin's in Basingstoke, for a bake-off. Still, I've been playing vinyl for most of the day and rediscovering my record collection! :cool:
Marco.
Dingdong
18-11-2011, 19:36
http://www.soundsupports.com/
Thanks for that, Mark. Do you know where in the UK they are based and/or what their telephone number is? It doesn't say on the site :)
Marco.
Dingdong
18-11-2011, 19:50
All I've got is info@soundsupports. Sorry.
I've had a couple of boards of them. Got one for a Thorens last year. They are bare metal and seem decent quality for the money to me.
Hi Mark,
No worries... Yes, the stuff they do looks pretty good! I'll see what Steve can do first, and if that doesn't work out, I'll pop them an email :)
Listening to the arm again last night, I have to say that this is one of the best things I've bought for my Techy, and has taken its musical performance to a whole new level.
Simon, all the work you did on Thursday, modifying the existing armplate to work, has paid off big time, allowing me to discover the joys of this veritable gem of a tonearm, so well done mate!
Anyone looking for a top-notch dealer, who's genuinely one of the good guys in the industry, willing to go the extra mile to help, I can thoroughly recommend Simon, at Hi Fi Sound: http://www.hifisound.co.uk/ The standard of his service is exemplary :cool:
Marco.
WOStantonCS100
19-11-2011, 05:37
Cheers guys... Here's some crappy pictures of it in situ, until I get a chance to photograph it properly:
http://img840.imageshack.us/img840/3752/img1080ed.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/840/img1080ed.jpg/)
http://img821.imageshack.us/img821/6713/img1081qt.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/821/img1081qt.jpg/)
http://img198.imageshack.us/img198/277/img1082ao.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/198/img1082ao.jpg/)
http://img59.imageshack.us/img59/8633/img1083oc.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/59/img1083oc.jpg/)
The pictures don't even begin to do it justice! :)
Marco.
P.S Also shown is the Funk Techy platter.
:stalks: :stalks: :stalks: :respect: Soooooooo curvy.... sooooooo nice......
More pics, now I've had a chance to photograph the T/T and arm properly (shown fitted with new Funk Firm platter):
With Paul Hynes SR5-21 PSU:
http://img64.imageshack.us/img64/594/img1085ul.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/64/img1085ul.jpg/)
Mike New platter on the left:
http://img580.imageshack.us/img580/6554/img1087n.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/580/img1087n.jpg/)
http://img195.imageshack.us/img195/5153/img1088bo.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/195/img1088bo.jpg/)
http://img593.imageshack.us/img593/4640/img1090yk.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/593/img1090yk.jpg/)
http://img831.imageshack.us/img831/4887/img1091w.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/831/img1091w.jpg/)
Marco.
Dingdong
19-11-2011, 08:45
The platter looks very pretty. How heavy is it compared with your old one?
Like comparing a feather with an elephant (almost)! :eyebrows:
Marco.
Audioman
19-11-2011, 11:50
Marco. Any first impressions v the Mike New ? It would be usefull to compare also the Funk using Timestep or Vantage Audio bearings. In theory a less substantial mass bearing may give optimum results so reducing cost of upgrade as the Mike New complete mods are OTT for most people.
The arm looks lovely but in terms of finish and easy set up it does make SME arms look very fair value with 'normal' cartridges.
What is the main quality component in this tonearm since it is quite expensive? I read this on the Ortofon site, but it did not tell me too much:
Ortofon RS-212D 9" dynamic-balance tonearm
The Ortofon RS-212D tonearm takes analog sound reproduction to a higher level with highly configurable VTF options and a dynamic balance system for increased stability when tracking warps and other anomalies
D-series tonearms can be used for a wide array of cartridges, feature anti-skating control
:doh: l cannot keep up............
But l am very drunk.........:(
But l am very drunk.........:(
:lol:
Are you the person I photographed outside the chippy about 20 mins ago?
:comatose:
Reid Malenfant
19-11-2011, 19:07
More pics, now I've had a chance to photograph the T/T and arm properly (shown fitted with new Funk Firm platter):
With Paul Hynes SR5-21 PSU:
http://img64.imageshack.us/img64/594/img1085ul.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/64/img1085ul.jpg/)
Oooooh, loving the look of that black anodized platter, very shall we say understated :) It sure as hell matches the Tecky visually & looks fantastic!
Nice arm to Marco, hope the combo sings for you :cool:
It's not anodized, Mark, it's some kind of acrylic material. It does look gorgeous, though. We had a very interesting session comparing platters today. Marco will publish it in detail soon.
This is Marco's deck chez moi earlier this evening, sporting my Shelter 5000 cartridge (next to my deck which is temporarily without its platter):
http://www.mtc.me.uk/images/TechnicsMarco.jpg
Reid Malenfant
19-11-2011, 19:55
Gorgeous & no kidding, look who has the photo skills :eyebrows:
Ok so not anodized alloy, will be interesting to hear how things pan out ;)
It's not anodized, Mark, it's some kind of acrylic material. It does look gorgeous, though. We had a very interesting session comparing platters today. Marco will publish it in detail soon.
This is Marco's deck chez moi earlier this evening, sporting my Shelter 5000 cartridge (next to my deck which is temporarily without its platter):
http://www.mtc.me.uk/images/TechnicsMarco.jpg
My god that looks fantastic. Dam i wish I had bought a Mk5.
WOStantonCS100
19-11-2011, 21:06
These tables look great with almost any arm, IMHO. The Ortofon looks right at home.
You can get that look with just about any 12x0m* (minus the pitch display) with a good powder coat paint job and a blue LED kit.
Funnily enough, my pop-up post light has failed so I've bought a white LED kit to replace all the lights.
Reid Malenfant
19-11-2011, 21:42
Funnily enough, my pop-up post light has failed so I've bought a white LED kit to replace all the lights.
Aye, Blue is so yesteryear :eyebrows: Long live purple LEDs :uhho:
White is cool (no kidding & as it happens :eyebrows:) Martin, keep them toned down brightness wise & I should say I'd like your style :)
Spectral Morn
19-11-2011, 22:16
It's not anodized, Mark, it's some kind of acrylic material. It does look gorgeous, though. We had a very interesting session comparing platters today. Marco will publish it in detail soon.
This is Marco's deck chez moi earlier this evening, sporting my Shelter 5000 cartridge (next to my deck which is temporarily without its platter):
http://www.mtc.me.uk/images/TechnicsMarco.jpg
Beautiful. Very nice looking indeed. Something to be very proud of.
Regards D S D L
More pics, now I've had a chance to photograph the T/T and arm properly (shown fitted with new Funk Firm platter):
http://img831.imageshack.us/img831/4887/img1091w.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/831/img1091w.jpg/)
Marco.
Which cartridge is that in the FR headshell?
Rare Bird
19-11-2011, 22:37
Gates project
:nono:
RUSSCO
:eyebrows:
Which cartridge is that in the FR headshell?
Hi Barry,
Yes, it's called 'Mr Magoo's Invisible Wonder'.... There is NO cartridge inside the headshell, daftee!! :mental: :lol: ;)
It was fitted purely for photographic effect, dude. There is a shadow, however, which looks like something is attached to the headshell.
Great day at Martin's, as usual. What a wonderful system he has! :eek: Very educational, as usual, too... Boy did we discover some stuff to report on, but later - too knackered now to type much!
Martin, many thanks again for your excellent hospitality (and superb sarnies) :cool:
Laters,
Marco.
Thanks for your kind comments, guys, on my T/T. Yes, I agree it does look rather good... And with Martin's Shelter 5000 fitted to the Ortofon, well, quite frankly what we achieved yesterday, sonically, with vinyl was breathtaking.....!! :eek:
I hope that we can replicate it at Scalford. If we can, it will certainly raise a few eyebrows ;)
I can categorically state that the combination of the above, in Martin's system, with his Whest PS.30R phono stage and Hashimoto SUT, is beyond question the finest I've EVER heard with vinyl replay - and yes, that includes in my own system!
The Whest/Shelter/Hashimoto combination, with either my Ortofon arm or Martin's Dynavector (which, sonically, we both thought to be on a par) is just GORGEOUS... Talk about sonic synergy - I didn't want to leave; I just wanted to stay there and play music all night!!
It was one of those sadly all too rare moments in audio when everything just clicks. I only hope that when I get my new SPU, that it delivers the sheer musical magic I heard yesterday at Martin's...
Ok, I've got my parents coming round today for Sunday lunch, so I need to go now and help Del prepare. I'll be back with some more thoughts later, and tomorrow will post my thoughts on the Funk platter vs. Mike New's, on the other thread that's been started :cool:
Marco.
Marco, I am still reeling from what I heard, too. Not only was that Hendrix some of the best live music I've ever heard reproduced, but we learned some valuable lessons too.
Not to mention that I have two damned expensive cables to sell now, and a short shopping list to acquire. Oh, and some more music to buy. All in the pursuit of ever better sound.
Thank you as usual for making the long journey down :)
Audioman
20-11-2011, 13:15
Marco, I am still reeling from what I heard, too. Not only was that Hendrix some of the best live music I've ever heard reproduced, but we learned some valuable lessons too.
Not to mention that I have two damned expensive cables to sell now, and a short shopping list to acquire. Oh, and some more music to buy. All in the pursuit of ever better sound.
Thank you as usual for making the long journey down :)
Can you elaborate on the cables ? I take it Marco produced some of his relatively cheap ones. While I can hear differences at a sane price point I have always been a sceptic on the meriits of realy expensive stuff v improving your hardware.
Hi Barry,
Yes, it's called 'Mr Magoo's Invisible Wonder'.... There is NO cartridge inside the headshell, daftee!! :mental: :lol: ;)
It was fitted purely for photographic effect, dude. There is a shadow, however, which looks like something is attached to the headshell.
Great day at Martin's, as usual. What a wonderful system he has! :eek: Very educational, as usual, too... Boy did we discover some stuff to report on, but later - too knackered now to type much!
Martin, many thanks again for your excellent hospitality (and superb sarnies) :cool:
Laters,
Marco.
I was puzzled, but I thought it might be the Shure M3D.
Cheers
Can you elaborate on the cables ? I take it Marco produced some of his relatively cheap ones. While I can hear differences at a sane price point I have always been a sceptic on the meriits of realy expensive stuff v improving your hardware.
Think I'll start a new thread on this, but briefly: I discovered that two lengths of Kimber KS-1121 that I had just bought (seriously pricy balanced interconnects) do not sound the same as the original one I have from about 6 years ago. Despite being well burned in, they sounded hard in the upper mid and sibilant. I replaced them with Paul Hynes Fine Silver XLRs and everything about my system balance was restored.
Therefore, the Kimbers are going on eBay and Paul will be getting another order from me.
Audioman
20-11-2011, 20:16
Think I'll start a new thread on this, but briefly: I discovered that two lengths of Kimber KS-1121 that I had just bought (seriously pricy balanced interconnects) do not sound the same as the original one I have from about 6 years ago. Despite being well burned in, they sounded hard in the upper mid and sibilant. I replaced them with Paul Hynes Fine Silver XLRs and everything about my system balance was restored.
Therefore, the Kimbers are going on eBay and Paul will be getting another order from me.
If you bought them of RA and had them less than 30 days you can return for a refund !
I've just missed the 30 day deadline, but I'll write to them. Thanks. Otherwise, it's off to eBay with them.
Talking of cables, that Furutech tonearm cable David sent me was a bit tasty, eh Martin? :eek: :wow:
Just when we thought things couldn't get any better, we popped that in, and it was like the T/T had been upgraded with a more expensive cartridge!! I've heard less of an improvement with whole component changes....
Marco.
It's easy sometimes to forget what a well designed cable swap can do to the sound. This is a case in point: it would not be easy to predict what a whopping improvement in sound quality a tonearm cable swap could elicit.
Also, how interesting that it sounded like a silver cable? I like silver cables but had not thought much about how recognisable silver sounds.
Sounds like you boys had a good day - look forward to hearing more about it. :)
It was probably one of the most revealing listening sessions I've ever enjoyed, Alex :)
When I returned from Martin's place on Saturday night, Paul's new (250VA transformer-equipped) SR7-EHD PSU had arrived in the post... My goodness, you want to see how ridiculously massive and over-specced it is for a T/T PSU. I've seen smaller and much lighter power amplifiers!!
And just when you think things can't really get any better, plugging the SR7-EHD (standing for 'Extra Heavy Duty') into the Techy, shatters that illusion once more... It never ceases to amaze me just how influential the role of power supplies are in the musical presentation of hi-fi equipment. Bloody hell... :eek: :eek:
In fact, one of these smilies is probably more appropriate: :lol:, oh go on then, let's have another couple: :lol: :lol:
More details later, with pics!
Marco.
Stoppit, Marco! My shopping list has grown already (as has yours). I'll be selling organs if this goes on...
Seriously, it will be interesting to see whether the Paul Hynes internal regulator set (PR3 plus 3 x mini regs) with the SR5 set to 27V, can match your SR7-EHD running on its own at 21V. I'll get started on this project soon, complete with photos.
Lol, I know... But this is more fun (almost) than sex!! :bum: :eyebrows:
Yup, Paul mentioned about being able to increase the voltage level, as you have described.
Indeed, I can't wait to hear how you get on with the internal regulator mods. I think the idea is that you can use the SR7-EHD together with those mods, no?
If they're successful, as no doubt they will be, I'll ask Anthony to fit them to my T/T :)
Marco.
Artifolk
21-11-2011, 10:55
This looks very interesting, I 'm about(2 weeks) to place an order with Paul for a SR7EHD, looking forward to your review. :eek:
Charles.
Talking of cables, that Furutech tonearm cable David sent me was a bit tasty, eh Martin? :eek: :wow:
Just when we thought things couldn't get any better, we popped that in, and it was like the T/T had been upgraded with a more expensive cartridge!! I've heard less of an improvement with whole component changes....
Marco.
Is it easy to change to the Furutech tonearm cable, or is it a bit of work?
Is it easy to change to the Furutech tonearm cable, or is it a bit of work?
It's a straightforward plug-in replacement.
Hi Jostein,
Is it easy to change to the Furutech tonearm cable, or is it a bit of work?
It's just like Martin says; a straightforward plug-in :)
If you're thinking of trying the Furutech, I can thoroughly recommend it. Never once have I introduced a Furutech product into my system and not been absolutely delighted with it. I use a number of their power connectors, to great effect.
The AG-12 is, quite simply, the most musically involving sounding tonearm cable I've heard. Basically, it gets the balance between analysis and 'musicality' spot on, so that one obtains forensic insight into recordings, and as a result can hear deep into the mix, without the presentation ever straying into being clinical.
If you can afford it, buy with confidence!
http://img542.imageshack.us/img542/874/furutechag12tonearmcabl.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/542/furutechag12tonearmcabl.jpg/)
Available here: http://www.mains-cables-r-us.co.uk/tone-arm-cables/46-furutech-ag-12-tone-arm-cable-4582237532913.html
I'm sure that David would give AoS members a little discount :cool:
Marco.
Marco - that photo is intriguing, because it shows a straight-in plug rather than the angled plug that yours has. Therefore it seems that I could fit one to my arm.
Oh yes, didn't I say? It's available with both straight and angled connectors :)
Like you Martin, I love silver cables, when done well - and the AG-12 is a fine example of such. As you heard yourself, it just makes for sheer musical magic!
Marco.
Hi Jostein,
It's just like Martin says; a straightforward plug-in :)
If you're thinking of trying the Furutech, I can thoroughly recommend it. Never once have I introduced a Furutech product into my system and not been absolutely delighted with it. I use a number of their power connectors, to great effect.
The AG-12 is, quite simply, the most musically involving sounding tonearm cable I've heard. Basically, it gets the balance between analysis and 'musicality' spot on, so that one obtains forensic insight into recordings, and as a result can hear deep into the mix, without the presentation ever straying into being clinical.
If you can afford it, buy with confidence!
http://img542.imageshack.us/img542/874/furutechag12tonearmcabl.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/542/furutechag12tonearmcabl.jpg/)
Available here: http://www.mains-cables-r-us.co.uk/tone-arm-cables/46-furutech-ag-12-tone-arm-cable-4582237532913.html
I'm sure that David would give AoS members a little discount :cool:
Marco.
Thanks, I think I want to check out this one. :)
Just heard from Simon at HifiSound that my new SPU has arrived and will be with me on Wednesday! :yay: :yay:
Marco.
I shall be interested in how you find the new SPU, Marco, though I suspect that you now know you'll need a SUT capable of getting the absolute best from it.
Hi Martin,
I shall be interested in how you find the new SPU, Marco, though I suspect that you now know you'll need a SUT capable of getting the absolute best from it.
Oh absolutely... I intend to upgrade my SUT to an A23 Homage T1, your Hashimoto or perhaps this Ortofon one, which looks intriguing, sometime next year, hopefully before Scalford:
http://img854.imageshack.us/img854/6143/st80secontentimage.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/854/st80secontentimage.jpg/) http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/9655/st8020se20back20white20.jpg (http://imageshack.us/photo/my-images/221/st8020se20back20white20.jpg/)
http://www.ortofon.com/products/accessories/st-80-se-mc-transformer
However, do remember that the loading provided by my A23 (SPU) SUT was completely unsuitable for your Shelter cartridge, which is why we got the result we did when we swapped over SUTs on Saturday.
My existing SUT sounded excellent with my old SPU, and I of course fully expect it to do the same with my new one :cool:
Btw, what did you think of the look of Paul's new SR7EHD T/T PSU?
Marco.
Btw, what did you think of the look of Paul's new SR7EHD T/T PSU?
Erm . . . Tirpitz? Nimitz? Another analogy for 'bloody huge and mean looking'?
Ha - you're not kidding!! Seriously, you simply *must* get one of these beasts, as it is an utter sonic revelation. You know that uncle Marco knows best... :eyebrows:
;)
Marco.
P.S Please note that all discussion on the Paul Hynes SR7EHD PSU have been moved to a separate thread in Strokes of Genius, which can be found here:
http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?t=14305
I'll be doing Paul's reg mods first, using the SR-5 adjusted to 27V. If that is successful then I will certainly look at getting an SR-7xx where xx appears to be changing by the month :)
Back to the OP. It's seeing your arm plate on Saturday that led me to do the same thing: I couldn't get enough arm height adjustment with the Mike New platter and the spacers that were used to jack up my Dynavector to overcome the edge between the two surfaces always bugged me. Then I saw that your plate (the same as mine) had been reversed to provide a step-up rather than a step-down in the centre section. Light dawned!
So tonight I removed the arm and plate and reversed the centre section to be a step-up and reassembled it all. Now the arm pillar chuck is bolted firmly to the plate without spacer nuts. I also have plenty of height adjustment so that I can run the Shelter very slightly nose down, as we discovered with your Ortofon that it plays rather well like that.
I didn't expect much improvement to be honest but wowee! It sounds fantastic, with more air and insight into the acoustic of the venue. And, mercy mercy, sibilance is reduced to being no issue at all. What an incredible gain for 40 mins work!
Nice one, Martin. You mentioned you were going to do that, so I'm glad it worked out :)
The question is, has the improvement you're hearing derived from reconfiguring the arm plate, running the Shelter slightly nose-down, or a combination of both? ;)
Marco.
RobbieGong
22-11-2011, 22:19
Back to the OP. It's seeing your arm plate on Saturday that led me to do the same thing: I couldn't get enough arm height adjustment with the Mike New platter and the spacers that were used to jack up my Dynavector to overcome the edge between the two surfaces always bugged me. Then I saw that your plate (the same as mine) had been reversed to provide a step-up rather than a step-down in the centre section. Light dawned!
So tonight I removed the arm and plate and reversed the centre section to be a step-up and reassembled it all. Now the arm pillar chuck is bolted firmly to the plate without spacer nuts. I also have plenty of height adjustment so that I can run the Shelter very slightly nose down, as we discovered with your Ortofon that it plays rather well like that.
I didn't expect much improvement to be honest but wowee! It sounds fantastic, with more air and insight into the acoustic of the venue. And, mercy mercy, sibilance is reduced to being no issue at all. What an incredible gain for 40 mins work!
Hi Martin,
I've always said that vta / height adjust angle can make a big difference for the better in my experience with my 2M Black which is very suseptible to this (get it right = WOW !!, get it wrong = a bit dull and overly laid back) hence I love the fly on the wheel vta of the stock arm. Some dismiss the influence of it's effect but I always go with my own experience, a bit like Marco's utterences re: trusting his ears :lol: Absolutely right !! - Glad for you Martin, It's one of those sweet moments :)
Cheers, guys, and my arm is one of those that can adjust VTA while playing. I would say that most of the improvement is from the arm plate / arm integrity and a smaller influence from VTA. The Shelter seems to be less critical of VTA than some cartridges I've used, but still it all adds up to the more transparent sound.
Well you can thank Simon (from HifiSound) for that one, Martin! It's great when someone's idea filters down the chain, to the benefit of others :)
Marco.
Back to the Kimber KS-1121: Russ Andrews did give me a full refund on the cable that was still within the 60 day trial period, so can't say fairer than that. For the other one, I have it on continuous burn-in and will give it months in order to see whether their claim of it being the same as my older one holds true. We shall see.
That's good news and shows that RA isn't all that bad! ;)
Marco.
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