Turntable mat?

[Jimbo]

I know quite a few AOS folk have used different TT mats over the years but I would be interested to know if anyone prefers a nude platter or is it always better to use a mat?

Any suggestions for mats that you feel are really worth upgrading too would be great.:)

[twotone]

Hi James, if your TT is a Technics SL-1200/10 MK2 then the Acromat is what you should try.

Made a huge difference to me from the Technics stock rubber mat and felt mat on top.

They cost £75 inc post for the Technics and Garrard ones or £60 or so for other TT versions

[Andrew B]

I didn't like the achromat at all, but that wasn't with a technics. I tried it with an LP12, an Axis, a PT and a Systemdek. It just ruined the bass on all but the PT, which to my ears, didn't have decent bass in the first place. I didn't actually find any positive qualities, but I've not liked a single PT/Funk product, so I guess I must have different ears to Arthur.

I really do like the Origin Live mat. It was streets ahead of the Roksan mat. A Xerxes with the original mat just lacks life in comparison. Not something I'd have said before hearing the OL mat. I've tried a few mats over the years and before getting the OL, I'd not have been an advocate of buying any of them.

The good news is, mats aren't too expensive. Why not look out for a couple of used ones and move on the ones you don't like. It cost me nothing to try the Achromat and I'm glad I did, even though its just not my thing. OL may still offer a money back guarantee if you can't find a used one, so check it out. Even at new price, it still more than merits the cost if you can return it.

[YNWaN]

In the past, turntable mats have been discussed quite extensively. I'm afraid I don't want to write an essay on the matter but if you use the 'search' facility you should find plenty of information.