View Full Version : Technics SL1210 bearing or ?
Artifolk
30-11-2011, 19:36
I know this has prob been covered before, but l'm really unsure which way to go.
Ok first off, I know most here upgrade their original bearing, but my question is why? Is the original bearing really so bad? is the machining not up to Standard/s ?, stability issues, or just its ...designed for DJing? (Ruff and ready).
Surly' if its designed for DJ's it should be a quite capable of reproducing Excellent results without modification/upgrade?
Awaiting the Bombardment.
Only asking as I'm very interested in why you've changed yours (pros and cons), and trying to figure out which way to turn.
Has anyone here bothered with bearing oil change, higher or lower viscosity and how this interacts with the reproduction of music on the original bearing?
Sorry if this has been done to death.
Wakefield Turntables
30-11-2011, 20:17
The 1210 bearing was produced to a price point and for what you get its very good. Better bearings exist (mike new) for example. My piece of advice is very simple if you can afford to buy the best get a Mike New bearing, if you have a budget decide what you want to spend on the bearing and stick to your budget. With regards tinkering with different oils etc, you could try this I dont think you'll see an improvement and the time and money that you waste on such things could be spent on a better bearing. Just my 2 cents worth.... :)
WOStantonCS100
30-11-2011, 20:57
I don't necessarily think the stock bearing is horrible. It's just that the other bearings are immensely better. I've got a Mike New bearing in one of my 1200's and will be looking into the possibility of modding the bearing of my rebuilt 1500MK2 (perhaps by Applied Fidelity or Vantage).
(I hesitate to mention this; because, I don't think my experience is the norm. The tolerances of the platters on both my 1200M3D's and one of my 1200MK2's were/are rather loose. It was necessary to modify these platters for a proper fit. Mike worked closely with me on it and did a successful job of keep me from pulling my hair out. :lol: As the bearing continues to settle in the improvement in sound is well worth the effort.) If you're listening, Mike, thank you!!
And alas, the truth of the matter is that the 1200 platter (though not horrible) can be and has been bettered by both Mike New and Funk Firm.
Just my humble opinioins, though. :)
I have an Applied Fidelity Generation II bearing in mine. A very noticeable difference over the stock bearing.
Wakefield Turntables
01-12-2011, 15:25
Charles,
You might want to do a search of the AOS forum archives as there are plenty of posts talking about 1210 bearings, you might get some of your questions answered if you do a little research.
:cool:
Artifolk
01-12-2011, 19:07
My piece of advice is very simple if you can afford to buy the best get a Mike New bearing
How many of the other bearings available have you tried (This applies to all), or have most here just bought on recommendation or just taken pot luck?(after reading reviews etc).
I'm looking at upgrading mine very soon, but with so many available I'm a little lost . I'd love to hear all but this is never going to happen, even if they do offer a return policy.
Yes I'm trying to troll my way through all about the Techy (very extensive). And hopefully get to the bottom of my questions.:scratch:
Wakefield Turntables
01-12-2011, 20:22
I bought a Mike New bearing because it was the only one for sale at that time. Everyone has now jumped on the band wagon and now seems to make one;) I've not heard any other bearings apart from the stock technics but to be honest i dont think I want to hear any others, the sound i get is extremely pleasing to my lug 'oles so why change?
Mike_New
02-12-2011, 08:51
I would just like to add to Andrew's comments.
As far as I know my High Precision Bearing is the only bearing which has been designed and manufactured from scratch.
All the others are no more than low cost upgrades to the standard very light weight cast alluminium housing.
Wakefield Turntables
02-12-2011, 11:04
Mike's bearing is huge and massive. It's probably a good investment because you could probably bide your time for several months and weigh the thing in. You'd probably get more for the scrap content with the esculatiing prices of scrap metal (not that I EVER recommend doing this to a Mike New bearing!) :lol:
I would just like to add to Andrew's comments.
As far as I know my High Precision Bearing is the only bearing which has been designed and manufactured from scratch.
All the others are no more than low cost upgrades to the standard very light weight cast alluminium housing.
Indeed, and that's the whole point of why it is the best. The others (Timestep, Vantage, etc) whilst good, and offer an improvement over the stock item (which is limited by being built to a price), simply 'paper over the cracks' of the latter's constructional limitations, because none of Mike's competitors have the required tooling or engineering prowess to produce their OWN bearing from scratch ;)
Quite simply, you can instantly hear what's 'wrong' with the stock bearing as soon as it is removed and replaced with one of Mike's: bass significantly improves, in terms of both weight and extension, and the noisefloor is lowered by a notable degree, bringing with it increased clarity and reduced distortion.
There is also a ponderous and artificially 'mechanical' quality to the Techy's musical presentation, which is eradicated when one of Mike's bearings is fitted. It simply transforms the SL-1200 into a 'serious' turntable, capable of competing with the best on the market. Fit a Funk Firm platter (or one of Mike's copper composite ones) and a Paul Hynes SR7EHD PSU, and you have the basis of a truly world-class turntable, but without the exorbitant price tag.
Charles, if you genuinely want to transform your Techy into something special, then from experience I can tell you quite categorically that a Mike New bearing is a fundamentally important part of the jigsaw. If you can afford it, my advice would be to go for one and not waste time and money finding out later that others are inferior. It's as simple as that! :cool:
Marco.
Charles, I second Marco's observations. The Mike New bearing was the only upgrade available at the time, but the engineering looks so 'right' that you can instantly see how the stability and rigidity by which the platter is held in place and rotated translates into the improvements heard: huge improvement in bass depth, pitch stability and texture, clarity throughout the entire frequency range and a foundation to the music that sets up the Techie's structural sound, building on any other mods you add.
Artifolk
08-12-2011, 19:48
Sorry i missed this.. so busy reading all i can find on Bearings/Psu's/Arms/Carts etc.
So far my conclusion are towards Mike's bearing (looks superbly engineered). Thanks to all the contributors/reviews on here. Having a very interesting time here, so much better(different) than the Linnie brigade(a little brainwashed), i do love my Linn tho(but not the expense).
To be honest, I'd love to take my SL1210MK5G far beyond my LINN (if its possible), so all my spare cash will be heading that way for the foreseeable future. As i said in an earlier post, I'm going to get the power sorted first(Psu/Regs) then move on to the Bearing, Platter, Arm and lastly the Cart in that order.
I'm quite lucky in that when its time for the arm upgrade my local dealer(Signals) deals with Rega/Linn/Roksan/Dynavector and Funk( btw i wasn't very impressed with the Funk FXRii/DV20L2 on a Linn/Uphorik phono/Naim 552/500/Kudos Titans, sounded lifeless...But you never know on the Techie.
Again thank you all... this is one journey i'm looking forward to.
RobbieGong
08-12-2011, 21:09
Hi Charles, Your definately in the right place, the guys here are great - a great forum for sure. I too like you have the MK5g and love it. It sounded good from the off and superb with the wonderful Ortofon 2M Black on the end of the stock arm. That said, I learned here that there is a journey that takes you from 'sounds good' to proper 'audiophile' territory and this I've realised as I have travelled gradually along the upgrade path. Prior to this I knew 'nice' clear, good treble, mids, bass, no distortion type thing. The upgrade journey however has taught me that some of the sweetness and sparkle was actually colouration from resonance and other such like things which impart themselve into the playback. Basically without filling the page, the mods ie: KAB fluid damper, Mike New Bearing, Issone Feet, Ortofon 2M Black cartridge, together have brought me to that place where you get a greater sense of realism from each recording, not a general glossed over presentation to everything but you can clearly tell whats going on in the recording ie: whever it's a good or bad one, the layers and nuances. Some say they can even place musicians in the recording etc, such is the level they have got to with their decks and such like. Problem is I sense I've still a lot more to peel away and reveal ie: I still have stock mat, arm and platter plus the fairly basic Tmestep psu. As such, If I'm ever Finances permit I'll upgrade Platter, PSU and so on (either that or buy a full spec Inspire Monarch which is fundamentally built on the foundations of the Techie but to a very high level indeed :eyebrows: All the best and careful with the credit card, it's one heck of a journey once you start, but like all journeys it's about getting there :)
Artifolk
10-12-2011, 13:15
After much deliberation, I've just purchased a Mike New bearing... Hope he has some in stock
Last thing i'm buying this year:lolsign:
You won't regret it, Charles.
RobbieGong
10-12-2011, 14:44
You won't regret it, Charles.
Martins right, If you really want to take it to 'audiophile' if you know what I mean, then the Mike New bearing is a must. Take time to fit properly, also it takes a lot of hours to bed in. A better platter should be on the cards one day I'd say which I'm yet to do. Still waiting for a review here on the Funk Platter - Please ! :)
prestonchipfryer
10-12-2011, 15:00
After much deliberation, I've just purchased a Mike New bearing... Hope he has some in stock
Last thing i'm buying this year:lolsign:
Prepare to be astounded by the improvement.
John :)
Still waiting for a review here on the Funk Platter - Please ! :)
It's done!
http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?t=14640
RobbieGong
10-12-2011, 15:47
It's done!
http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?t=14640
Nice one Martin :)
Artifolk
10-12-2011, 16:02
Hope to have it here before Christmas (postal services permitting) and run in before Pauls SR7 arrives.
Martin
Any news on the Regs upgrade review... I'm holding out before i place an order.
And i'll need to find someone to install for me as i'm totally ignorant to these sort of thing. Paul said he would fit them but i'm a little unsure about sending my Techie that far(bloody couriers).
Any news on the Regs upgrade review... I'm holding out before i place an order.
Hi Charles - I'm going to make a start soon, I just needed to let my workload simmer down but it'll soon be the end of term and I'll be able to relax. The regs upgrades are seriously non-trivial as components need removal and PCB tracks cutting, so I'm going to take my time with it all. Whether it will then make the deck less dependendent on heavy duty PSUs will be interesting and I'll be able to compare my SR5-27 (as it will be) against Marco's SR7 at some point.
Mike_New
11-12-2011, 05:39
hi Charles,
Yes I got you Paypal transfer at the same time as this AoS notification. Sunday Afternoon at 4.30. I will post first thing Monday Morning.
However do keep in mind that it is the festive season. And in recent sales to the UK the 'customs' have been bloody slow.
Artifolk
11-12-2011, 09:37
Thanks Mike,
Hoping to get it before but.. At least it should be run in by the time the SR7 arrives.
Takes me back to the day when i Demo/upgraded from pre Cirkus to Cirkus bearing on the Linn, if your bearing does half to the Techie what the Cirkus did to my Linn I'll be all :)
As it stands the Techie sounds a little Compressed/Murky atm, but i think its more the Cart/Arm combo. The DV20X2L was spare so i just put it on. Totally different story to the Linn/Ekos/DV20X2L.
Funny why we don't see many upgrades, Bearings, Psu's, Platters, Circuit board upgrades etc coming out of Japan, except the basic stuff Arms, Phono Leads etc ( Possibly worth starting a new thread for this).
Funny why we don't see many upgrades, Bearings, Psu's, Platters, Circuit board upgrades etc coming out of Japan, except the basic stuff Arms, Phono Leads etc ( Possibly worth starting a new thread for this).
It's likely the low sales volumes - they would never recoupe their R&D and tooling costs. I've seen their factories - Japan is mostly set up for vast production runs. The small companies like Dynavector and 47 Labs are very much a minority and have a different cost base.
Artifolk
11-12-2011, 17:56
Martin
I do understand where your coming from in the mass global economy, but surly Japanese Individuals in a similar vein to Mike New,Paul Hynes, Audio Origami etc would be producing diy equipment? :scratch:
Sorry if i come across as a little naive.
Oh yes, Charles, I'm not saying they don't. However, in the main cottage industries service their own countries since export certification, duty and shipping costs can become prohibitive. For instance, a Japanese one-man company producing anything that plugs into the mains would need CE certification to sell into Europe. That's just one of the obstacles and there are many.
Artifolk
11-12-2011, 19:34
Thank you for enlightening my naivety. :eek:
Mike_New
11-12-2011, 22:05
Hi Charles,
Yes Martin is absolutely correct in his observations on production costs.
For my part if I could expect to sell my bearings by the hundred per month I could reduce the costing by about 25% or more. As it is the precision spindles have to be machined and fitted on special NC machines, which for small batch runs is expensive per unit. But the solid Brass housings I machine myself on a Lathe and Mill fitted with numerical readout but manual control non the less.
If I could justify the volume they could be made on the one universal NC Lathe/Mill in about a 5min cycle time. Imagine that amounts to about 100 per day. 500 per week.
Artifolk
20-12-2011, 20:53
I'm now the proud owner of a Mike New Bearing.
Pick it up today after work.
I've never look at the Techie Bearing so i was surprised by the size :eek:, to be honest i really didn't think it would be so large, and the weight, now i see why some here have bought Mike's Bearing plate, all i need is an Acrow Prop to stop the base of the Techie from flexing:lol:
Thanks to everyone who put their 2 cents worth in, looks like you've helped me make the right decision.
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/IMAG0395.jpg
Mike, if it sounds as good as it looks, I'm on a winner here, Thank You.
Now I've just got to wait till January to get it fitted (not doing this myself).
Wakefield Turntables
20-12-2011, 21:05
fitting the bearing is extremely easy there are umpteen guides on how to dismantle your techie and put it back together again. I've just started dismantling a garrard 301 (never done one before) but it looks easy enough to put back together again. I'm overhaulin the bloody thing :eek:
Mike_New
20-12-2011, 22:48
Hi Charles,
Part of the fun in upgrading the "Techie" is to do the work yourself.
If you follow the Installation Instuctions that I have provided you with you will get the job done in no time. The Instructions have been updated from time to time as others have sugested changes.
Also there have been excellent posts here from people who have done it.
As I write this I have recieved my first customer order from Moscow, so off to the post office this morning.
Wakefield Turntables
21-12-2011, 19:06
Mike's instructions are quite easy to follow when it comes to fitting the bearing. Just make sure you read through the instructions several times so you know what your doing!
RobbieGong
21-12-2011, 19:14
Ditto last two posts Charles - I fitted mine and it aint like I'd gone inside the thing before. I actually fitted my Timestep at the same time as I read here that it kinda made sense to do that. Honestly, just follow instructions carefully, take your time ( I took ages, didn't rush,) and Bobs your uncle. Also, usually no one will take care with a thing like the owner -Trust me !! ;)
Artifolk
21-12-2011, 20:05
Okay, everyone is ganging up on me, so I've decided to give it a go.
I'll take pics along the way and post here for all to see/crit etc.
I won't be undertaking this until boxing day has passed and I've plenty of time.
Wakefield Turntables
21-12-2011, 20:20
and less alcohol in your system :lol:
Artifolk
22-12-2011, 18:51
I'd better get it done before New Years then. :cool:
alex_san78
22-12-2011, 19:53
Hi Charles,
Part of the fun in upgrading the "Techie" is to do the work yourself.
If you follow the Installation Instuctions that I have provided you with you will get the job done in no time. The Instructions have been updated from time to time as others have sugested changes.
Also there have been excellent posts here from people who have done it.
As I write this I have recieved my first customer order from Moscow, so off to the post office this morning.
I wonder who is this guy from Moscow? :)
Can't wait to get it! :)
Cheers,
Alex
Ditto last two posts Charles - I fitted mine and it aint like I'd gone inside the thing before. I actually fitted my Timestep at the same time as I read here that it kinda made sense to do that. Honestly, just follow instructions carefully, take your time ( I took ages, didn't rush,) and Bobs your uncle. Also, usually no one will take care with a thing like the owner -Trust me !! ;)
How long do you reckon it would take to change the bearing if you did it the second time?
Tip for better sound when you install the bearing, guys:
When you remove both the large plastic inner dust tray and the small plastic motor cover, put them safely away in the original box. Do not reinstall them. This helps the clarity of sound and will bring the best out of the deck. No dust of any import is going to get in there so don't worry about it.
RobbieGong
22-12-2011, 22:57
How long do you reckon it would take to change the bearing if you did it the second time?
Blimey, thats a good question. I can honestly say havin done it once, it would be a heck of as lot quicker the second time and that would be whilst being careful and meticulous as standard too. It aint hard, you just have to do things properly like with most things. :eyebrows:
Wakefield Turntables
22-12-2011, 23:04
10-15 minutes tops! If its your 1st time then around 45-60 minutes.
RobbieGong
23-12-2011, 13:36
Your an expert Andrew :) I think if you take care to clip the spikey solder ends off properly, make sure the bearing sits in its housing correctly, hoover out any bits, grease the spindle bearing, evenly press around platter bearing area to make sure platter sitting nice and level etc its gonna be a bit longer than 10-15 minutes unless ya lookin to fly through it :lol:
Wakefield Turntables
23-12-2011, 13:42
Your an expert Andrew :) I think if you take care to clip the spikey solder ends off properly, make sure the bearing sits in its housing correctly, hoover out any bits, grease the spindle bearing, evenly press around platter bearing area to make sure platter sitting nice and level etc its gonna be a bit longer than 10-15 minutes unless ya lookin to fly through it :lol:
True mate, my 1210 cost 90 quid originally and I bought it from a DJ in Bradford so it was well and truly gunked up! Most of the stuff you highlighted I'd already done when I fitted the MN bearing.
Artifolk
28-12-2011, 21:15
Trial run of Bearing installation in spare deck.
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/IMAG0402.jpg http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/IMAG0400.jpg
To be honest a simple job.. god knows why i was so worried.
Will be installing in correct deck tomorrow, I'll do a complete run through of photos.
Well done, Charles. Wait 'til you hear it :)
Mike_New
29-12-2011, 00:47
Don't take it out Charles buy a second one!!
Artifolk
29-12-2011, 08:24
Thanks Martin
Mike.. I wish
One thing i did do was wear an esd(electrostatic Discharge) strap just in case, not sure whether its needed but at least No harm will come the Electronics while removing the Circuit board etc.
Ps... Mike, that bloody Oil stinks :)
Don't take it out Charles buy a second one!!
LOL:)-
Mike_New
29-12-2011, 21:40
The oil does stink but the bearings love it.
You only need to feed them a very small amount
Artifolk
30-12-2011, 08:05
Fitted bearing to deck yesterday. Photos to follow with highlighted areas as per Instructions later today.
Deck now consists of.
Sl1210 Mk5g, Mike New bearing, Standard arm with extra wear weight, Sumiko headshell, Dyavector DV-20x2L, Oyaide mat and weight, Isonoe feet all sitting on glass.
Well well well, had a stint of three hour listening (not to serious) yesterday evening and after messing with VTA etc was amazed at the difference, gone has all the Muddiness, Compression, which i thought was due to the Arm/Cart combo, the Dynavector is singing like a Blackbird on heat. Dynamics have vastly improved, to be honest i didn't really like the sound of the stock deck because of this,it all sounded so flat, but Mikes bearing has done wonders in this area.
One other thing i did compare it to was my CDX player, same album etc, you don't need to ask the outcome.
Can't wait to hear it after approx 50 hrs, so I've left it spinning up until Saturday. more to come.
Thanks to everyone who put me on this path, this is one Upgrade i definitely won't regret buying.
Mike, you've built a truly superb bearing and my admiration goes to you, thank you.
Hope it sounds great Charles- l have a feeling it will:)
Mike_New
30-12-2011, 08:37
Thank you Charles for your support
and a happy new year to all
Artifolk
30-12-2011, 10:03
Hope it sounds great Charles- l have a feeling it will:)
Andy, your deck looks very similar to mine as it stands atm, you need one of these bearings. Beg/Steal/Sell yourself, want ever it takes :lol:
Nice one, Charles. I completely agree with your comments on Mike's bearing. It is, quite simply, *the* one to have!
I'm really pleased that your Techy upgrades are going well. I guess that this is the benefit of following the same well-trodden and successful path as others, which is why there is so much info on modifying the Techy here on AoS :)
The question I would ask, however, is how does your Techy compare now to your (not exactly 'budget') LP12? ;)
Marco.
Artifolk
30-12-2011, 12:12
Nice one, Charles. I completely agree with your comments on Mike's bearing. It is, quite simply, *the* one to have!
I'm really pleased that your Techy upgrades are going well. I guess that this is the benefit of following the same well-trodden and successful path as others, which is why there is so much info on modifying the Techy here on AoS :)
The question I would ask, however, is how does your Techy compare now to your (not exactly 'budget') LP12? ;)
Marco.
Thanks Marco
I've really got to thank both Martin and you for giving me most of the incentive/help etc to carry out all i have so far, without you both and AoS I'd have probably made some costly mistakes and got fed up, returning to my LP12 and never knowing whether it correctly setup and the now very costly upgrades, Radical £2800,Keel £2400,Ekos SE £3700 etc just to keep it in touch... I'm looking forward to taking the Techy once the PSU/Arm are fitted to Signals(Local Dealer) and letting Alastair and Andy have a listen just to see their faces :eek:
On how the Techy compares to the LP12, I'll just say, its not looking good for the old fruitbox. More to come after Saturday's listen.
If we ever meet the :cool: are on me, same goes to Martin.
BTW. if your interested i can do a complete run through of the Bearing install including photos as a Sticky if it meets AoS standards.
Ps.. All i need now is a Mana Wallshelf (Kicking myself as i sold mine some years ago when i got the Naim Fraim)
Great news, Charles, I'm really pleased for you. Perhaps you can see a path now where you could sell the Linn for some considerable sum and finance a better arm. Then, I can assure you, you will be in vinyl heaven and still make a profit :)
Enjoy the listening experience and rediscover your collection, mate!
and a happy new year to all
A very happy and peaceful New Year to you, Mike.
Flippin 'eck, looks like I'll be buying a bearing next year when funds become available. Can't wait :)
Artifolk
30-12-2011, 18:29
Cuddles
You'll be amazed at what a difference it makes... its a no :mental:
Happy new year to all.. even happier for me, just got home and my Jelco and Sound Support arm board where on the coffee table, looks mighty fine in black:)
Artifolk
31-12-2011, 12:08
Sorry about the quality... HTC phones only seem to like bright sunlight.
First thing... Remove the Power cord from the mains.
1. Remove the Perspex Lid, Clamp the Arm and remove the Headshell ( you don't an accident, Broken/Bent Cantilever etc).
Remove the Platter.
Remove the 5 Screws(Circled) and lift the cover off.
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/001-1.jpg
2. Remove the Plugs(Circled)...Take Care when doing this (easy to pull a wire out etc). Note: you may need to clip the cable clamps on the bottom cable form to give more freedom. (bottom left hand corner on main board).
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/002-1.jpg
3. Remove the 3 screws(Circled) which hold the circuit board.
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/003-1.jpg
4. Remove the 3 screws(Circled). These screws clamp the coil and bearing assembly to the plinth
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/004.jpg
5. Carefully lift the circuit board up and to the left, remove the bearing taking note of the orientation of the 3 holes
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/005.jpg
6. Remove the Plastic housing from the top of the coil assembly, take care whilst doing so as its a little fiddly and you could damage the fine wires to the coil assembly.
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/006.jpg
7. Using side cutters trim the component wires which poke through the circuit board(solder side), just nip them off above the solder dome. place a towel or similar underneath as you don't want stray pieces flying off in the internals of the deck.
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/007.jpg
8. Carefully fit the new bearing into the curved circuit board slots with the right hand whilst locating the three long retaining screws through the holes in the bearing. Now hold the assembly by the protruding spindle while lowering back into the bearing cavity.
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/008.jpg
9. Now insert the bottom left hand screw into the corner of the circuit board (Circled) to locate it correctly but do not tighten.
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/009.jpg
10.Carefully engage the three long bolts in their lower chassis holes and lightly tighten, the circuit board may need slightly adjustments to achieve this.
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/010.jpg
11.Place the last 2 remaining screws in to the circuit board (Circled) and loosely tighten.
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/011.jpg
12.Fully tighten the center bolts, this will clamp the bearing to the plinth.
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/012.jpg
13.Tighten the 3 circuit board screws and replace all the plugs into the circuit board.
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/013.jpg
14.Now add 3-5 drops of oil to the bearing just below the taper, take care here as you do not want excess spillage into the coil assembly.
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/014.jpg
15.No photo... Replace the platter and give the deck a whirl, if all's okay, then replace the cover (Photo 1) and tighten all 5 screws.
Finals.
You'll need to check VTA, the bearing may have slightly alter this.
For all those who want to undertake this upgrade, i hope this is of use.
Disclaimer:
THIS IS A GUIDE AND I TAKE NO RESPONSIBILITY IF THE INFORMATION IS INCORRECT... ITS YOUR DECK NOT MINE!!
Please feel free to comment.
Good pics, Charles. Not bad for an HTC phone (I have one, too).
Great pics there. :thumbsup: Looking forward to the text, and I might try that upgrade myself. :)
alex_san78
01-01-2012, 08:29
Thanks for the pictures Charles! Good job! Any further impressions on the sound change?
Artifolk
01-01-2012, 08:50
Thanks for the pictures Charles! Good job! Any further impressions on the sound change?
Sorry haven't had a chance, due to Party invite/hectic day...and now I'm nursing one hell of a hangover :comatose:
Will get to listen once i shake this off.
Happy New Year
alex_san78
01-01-2012, 10:03
:lol::lol::lol: Take care mate! :) Some beer should help you... :cool: :eyebrows:
I had yesterday just 3 bottles of champagne so I was ok this morning. :)
Artifolk
01-01-2012, 12:12
Darn....seems I've run out of Editing time... Help :scratch::lol:
Wakefield Turntables
01-01-2012, 13:45
:lol::lol::lol: Take care mate! :) Some beer should help you... :cool: :eyebrows:
I had yesterday just 3 bottles of champagne so I was ok this morning. :)
F'kin hell Alex you must have one hell of a liver:eek: I'd be dead on my back with 3 bottles of champagnes, I did manage 14 bottles of becks last night though:D
Artifolk
01-01-2012, 18:05
Update on Bearing upgrade.
First off I'd like to say I'm no word wizard. :doh:
I listen to Three albums.
Pink Floyds - The Wall
Joan as Police Woman - The Deep Field
Joe Satriani - Flying in a Blue Dream
From the off i noticed a marked increase in the depth of the soundstage on all recordings, Male/Female voices have far more realism, a more airy feel to instruments( greater distance better them) which has helped on more involved passages, hence picking out each instrument in turn was far easier than with the standard Techy
Dynamics are superb, in your face, not quite, but the sense of realism is there in abundance and waiting to be exploited, micro dynamics don't pop out of nowhere as with some system,but flow with the music in time, just letting you know they are there.
Bass lines pump along at that pace for foot tapping a plenty... in fact mine where tapping from the off, with improvements to the attack and decay of notes, with a greater sense of depth as each note played, you can feel the vibrations of the strings as they are struck, Notes are not flabby in anyway more the opposite, nicely taught and robust.
Mids have a lovely transparency. As said previously Male/Female voices come alive, percussion has that slam i love, guitars and pianos are rock solid(this is probably to do with the drive mechanics) but i didn't notice any speed instability on long decays.
Cymbals sound real, there presence has that lovely live sound to them, again with a lovely attack and decay, far more pleasing to the ear.
And lastly, the bearing tightens ever part of the music up and lets it flow. I'm discovering parts of music i haven't heard before.
This is one upgrade anyone with a techy should have on their list, i shudder to think whats going to happen once i have Paul's PSU and the Jelco fitted... and the battle commence against my Linn.
Sorry if this is a little on the short side but as i mention earlier, I'm no literary genius, but its my ears that really count. :ner:
Please feel free to comment
Happy new Year to One and all. :cool:
Good description, Charles, and matches what I've heard since using Mike's excellent bearing. Paul's PSU complements the bearing and will give you another goodly step-up in sound.
Text with pictures...nothing better. :) Thanks. It makes it so much easier to see the whole process in a safe way. Mike New might owe you one. :)
Artifolk
01-01-2012, 18:26
Good description, Charles, and matches what I've heard since using Mike's excellent bearing. Paul's PSU complements the bearing and will give you another goodly step-up in sound.
Thanks Martin... i can't wait, 25 years with Linn, looks like coming to an end.
Text with pictures...nothing better. :) Thanks. It makes it so much easier to see the whole process in a safe way. Mike New might owe you one. :)
Still more text to add, I ran out of editing time.. need to speak to an admin so i can finish it. I hope this helps Mike with sales etc.
need to speak to an admin so i can finish it
What do you need adding, Charles? PM me if you need.
alex_san78
01-01-2012, 19:33
F'kin hell Alex you must have one hell of a liver:eek: I'd be dead on my back with 3 bottles of champagnes, I did manage 14 bottles of becks last night though:D
14 bottles... :) Good one Andrew! :) 7 liters? I wonder why becks? If I'm in UK, I drink only UK beers and whisky... ;)
Hope i'll come this year to UK for a week... :D:cool::cool::cool::D
alex_san78
01-01-2012, 19:42
Hi Charles!
Thanks for your grate description about effect of your upgrade on sound. Looking forward to read your further upgrades influences on the technics sound.
Definitely you'll be happy with Jelco arm - it’s fantastic on its price! I'm impressed by it's performance. I will order the Collar for Jelco in February for easier and correct VTA adjustment.
Artifolk
01-01-2012, 20:00
Will be adding this soon, just want to digest what has been achived by Mike's bearing first.
Martin you have PM... i think :)
http://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/IMAG0476.jpghttp://i1108.photobucket.com/albums/h419/Artifolk/IMAG0473.jpg
The 750D is a nice arm, Charles.
alex_san78
01-01-2012, 20:48
The 750D is a nice arm, Charles.
Indead.
I've now added Charles' missing annotations to post #61.
Remember my previous tip: the deck sounds even better with the large inner plastic cover and small motor cover permanently removed. Unless you're in a very dusty environment, no harm will come to the circuitry.
prestonchipfryer
02-01-2012, 10:10
I've now added Charles' missing annotations to post #61.
Remember my previous tip: the deck sounds even better with the large inner plastic cover and small motor cover permanently removed. Unless you're in a very dusty environment, no harm will come to the circuitry.
How did I miss this tip. Must pay more attention. :rolleyes: :)
alex_san78
02-01-2012, 12:55
I've now added Charles' missing annotations to post #61.
Remember my previous tip: the deck sounds even better with the large inner plastic cover and small motor cover permanently removed. Unless you're in a very dusty environment, no harm will come to the circuitry.
Thanks for the tip Martin. Will remove them when will install my new bearing.
alex_san78
13-01-2012, 07:03
Finally my MN Bearing has arrived! :eyebrows: :cool:
Will install it maybe during the weekend. Will report the results ASAP. :)
Just one question in my mind - I will need to disassemble (turn up side down) my deck when the collar will arrive so will it be OK for the Bearing and its oil? Or I will have to ad some more oil after?
Finally my MN Bearing has arrived! :eyebrows: :cool:
Will install it maybe during the weekend. Will report the results ASAP. :)
Just one question in my mind - I will need to disassemble (turn up side down) my deck when the collar will arrive so will it be OK for the Bearing and its oil? Or I will have to ad some more oil after?
Look forward to your thoughts Alex:)
Mike_New
13-01-2012, 07:56
Finally my MN Bearing has arrived! :eyebrows: :cool:
Will install it maybe during the weekend. Will report the results ASAP. :)
Just one question in my mind - I will need to disassemble (turn up side down) my deck when the collar will arrive so will it be OK for the Bearing and its oil? Or I will have to ad some more oil after?
The oil you add to the top of the bearing will probably drip down the spindle when you invert your SL1200, so clean off the spindle with a dry rag and then add a few drops of oil when you are finished installing the collar.
alex_san78
13-01-2012, 08:09
Thanks Mike.
BTW. Australian post is really quick! :) Didn't expected to get the Bearing so early.
Mike_New
13-01-2012, 11:19
High Alexey,
I'm pleased it arrived in good time.
With the speed of air freight these days, it is not the travel time that counts, but the time things are held up in customs while the middle class beaucracry do their percieved important thing.
alex_san78
13-01-2012, 16:16
Yeah, I know, but I'm still happy with the delivery time. :lol:
Alex, sttop posting on the forum and fit the bearing- we are wanting to know how it sounds sir!:):D
Artifolk
13-01-2012, 22:15
If it opens the sound/dynamics spectrum as it did mine, your on a winner.( no doubting that!!)
Does need a good run in before serious listening, though straight out of the box you'll be stunned by the difference.
Fitting is easy... what you waiting for. :D
Mike_New
13-01-2012, 22:47
It's like waiting to drink a good wine, you don't want to do it all at once!
For those who are seriously considerin my Bearing I am now using one of my test-bed SL1200s to run-in each bearing for about 30Hrs. Alexy's was the first one to have this treatment so it will be interesting to see what he thinks.
I thought that's what 45rpm is for, Mike :)
alex_san78
14-01-2012, 10:29
Hi guys! Installed... :) It took me 25 minutes maximum. Easy.
As for the sound.... To be continued... :) I'm listening now... :) With smile on my face... :)
Artifolk
14-01-2012, 10:55
Congrats, look forward to your impression.
alex_san78
14-01-2012, 14:43
So here I am. 3 LP's where listened.
First impression - WOW! To be honest, I didn't expected that the difference between stock bearing and Mike's one will be really big...
After I've installed the Bearing I gave my deck around 2 hours to work and then started to listen.
From the first song I've listened with new bearing I was standing magnetized in front of my system. The difference was HUGE! In every aspect - dynamics, wide and holographic scene (that what I call 3D), details that it delivers. I thought that I knew those 3 LP's very well... I realized that until today I didn't.
Thank you Mike for this excellent Bearing.:cool::cool::cool: It's a piece of art!
I do love my deck more and more! :)
Wakefield Turntables
14-01-2012, 14:48
Things will get better with a little more running in. :cool:
alex_san78
14-01-2012, 18:48
Hi Andrew!
It arrived already with 30 hours test run from Mike. After installation it is permanently spinning + I will leave it to run overnight... About 50 hours will be tomorrow.
Wakefield Turntables
14-01-2012, 19:17
ok, i really hope you get nice sounds from your techie!
Mike_New
15-01-2012, 03:16
From the first song I've listened with new bearing I was standing magnetized in front of my system. The difference was HUGE! In every aspect - dynamics, wide and holographic scene (that what I call 3D), details that it delivers. I thought that I knew those 3 LP's very well... I realized that until today I didn't.
Thank you Mike for this excellent Bearing.:cool::cool::cool: It's a piece of art!
I do love my deck more and more! :)
I'm pleased you like the bearing.
It would seem that running the bearings in for about 30-40Hrs before I post them to people, provides a much better immediate impression of the much improved sonics the bearing can offer. I will do this to all bearings in the future.
Incidentally I now only have six bearings left from the last batch.
vandergraafuk
29-01-2012, 23:15
Hello for those of you that have imported the bearing from Mike to the UK, Did HMRC sting you for import duty and VAT and if so how much as a rough guide. Looking at this being the first MOD i will do.
Artifolk
31-01-2012, 18:32
I was lucky.. no vat or duty.
Just ordered me one of the Mike New bearings today as well. My MKII is has some years on it so I believe it will benefit much from this. :)
Mike_New
01-02-2012, 21:56
Just ordered me one of the Mike New bearings today as well. My MKII is has some years on it so I believe it will benefit much from this. :)
Jostein,
Thank you Jostein, I am sure you will hear a difference eveyone else does.
I have just mounted your bearing into my test rig to run-in for 30Hrs will post on Friday or next Monday.
Quick delivery, got it today! Now forward with installation tomorrow I believe. :)
Artifolk
14-02-2012, 17:06
Your in for a treat... after a good run in, let us know how you get on.
I have actually installed it right away and am ready to run it in. :) You're instructions was very helpful when making the install, thanks.
http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?t=14480&highlight=bearing&page=7
Artifolk
14-02-2012, 18:23
Couldn't wait huh? :eyebrows:
Your welcome, i just tried to do my little bit (for the forum) to help everyone thinking of buying one of Mike's superb bearings and help with the installation.
Well Jostien intial thoughts it has been nearly three hours:lol:
Well Jostien intial thoughts it has been nearly three hours:lol:
Doing a lot of vinyls tonight and the Techie sounds better too my ears already. :) Wider soundscape, more details and better defined bass. This brings happiness to the room. :)
Mike_New
15-02-2012, 05:13
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Charles for the good work he has done in taking all the pics of the bearing installation procedure.
They have proved very helpful to people.
Artifolk
16-02-2012, 18:02
Does that qualify me for a free composite platter :D
Seriously though, thank you Mike, keep up the good work.
Mike_New
16-02-2012, 21:20
Does that qualify me for a free composite platter :D
.
Hi Charles,
How about half of one?
I will give you 7 1/2 % if you really want one.
Artifolk
17-02-2012, 18:54
I do but as I'm about the renovate the lounge + add Dedicated system mains funds are a little tight for the next month or so.
Women can sure spend money on redecoration.
alex_san78
17-02-2012, 21:25
Dear Mike,
Please consider me to! :) 7 1/2%... :) From March...
Your new platter is really sexy (in black color). Having such a grate experience with the bearing, I expect and believe that it will give really good effect on the sound.
Mike_New
18-02-2012, 04:07
Hi Alexey,
In the spirit of 2012 and AoS, I will offer a 7 1/2% discount on all orders before end of March. Just paypal me $100 to secure your order together with your own specifications regarding Height above chassis and yes/no for label recess.
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