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RichB
06-01-2015, 22:54
Hi Grant,
aye the wee Mini 1 is a wee cracker, I have Brians on loan for a wee bit and its driving my Eddingdales really well. Great focus in the mid and a smooth but detailed top end.
Its engaging and musical, which is what its all about!

I'll agree with description of the Mini1, all of that is true but I do see the shortcomings in the amp after an extended listen. Primarily the bass, not the lack of it as such, that isn't it's issue. It's more how natural the bass sounded. Plumbed my Rega back in and the bass is right there again, not fuzzy or undefined. Just right.

struth
06-01-2015, 22:58
I've not had the opportunity to use it much, but bass seemed ok. aint a lover of too much bass so maybe it suits me. Speakers have to flung into the mix as well I suppose but I think I will keep it.

RichB
07-01-2015, 00:07
I've not had the opportunity to use it much, but bass seemed ok. aint a lover of too much bass so maybe it suits me. Speakers have to flung into the mix as well I suppose but I think I will keep it.

It's not that it's bass light at all, in fact far from it.. the mini1 does low end in spades and sounds very musical but when I switched back to decent SS amp they way it sounded was so different, less one note and more 'real'. This is what prevents me basing an entire system around a pair of them in vertical biamp configuration. I am still keen to hear one with a good tube pre though

Gazjam
07-01-2015, 00:13
Agree with this, the bass is probably it's weakest point, but still very good given its price.

But...still musical and involving.

struth
07-01-2015, 00:17
It's not that it's bass light at all, in fact far from it.. the mini1 does low end in spades and sounds very musical but when I switched back to decent SS amp they way it sounded was so different, less one note and more 'real'. This is what prevents me basing an entire system around a pair of them in vertical biamp configuration. I am still keen to hear one with a good tube pre though

Well I have a good valve pre so will try it for you when I feel up to it and report back Rich.....might indeed be interesting.

struth
17-01-2015, 16:54
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/17/2d7d4edadc278256b9aae9fd2bd0cd26.jpg

moody lighting for moody music:eyebrows:
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/17/6bfb91f95000c40a6448ed649bfe2fcf.jpg

jandl100
19-01-2015, 08:12
Oooo - yum, a Mini-1. Poetry!

I must admit that I like its bass as much as the rest of the freq range - I'd call it taut and communicative. I'd say it's better than most amps I've heard, no whoom-boom, just the music.

I'd say its failings are a slight lack of rez in the mids and treble, still very good, though.

struth
19-01-2015, 10:46
i am not getting the best out of it currently as the speakers are wrong for it. just have not got enough drive to change things at moment.

jandl100
20-01-2015, 07:48
Damn, that's a shame, Grant - when those little Amptastics beasties are happy they are superb!

Watcher gonna do about it? You have other speakers to try?

struth
20-01-2015, 22:19
Damn, that's a shame, Grant - when those little Amptastics beasties are happy they are superb!

Watcher gonna do about it? You have other speakers to try?
Not sure yet. My life has kinda fallen apart at moment so will think about what to do. I have some Kef's that I think would be a possible match although they are big ish .90 db so might be right. Some gear has to go though.

jandl100
21-01-2015, 08:13
Sorry to hear you've got problems, Grant. :(
Best of luck getting sorted.

struth
21-01-2015, 21:07
Cheers Jerry; things can only get better (I hope). and to start my new life, I'll be having a bt of a change, to start, I have a new dac acoming :eyebrows: Many of goodies(well to me) may well be going to new homes.

Gazjam
21-01-2015, 22:49
Good luck fella, it'll all work out I'm sure. :)

A small fraction (faction?) of the Scottish Mafia needs to pop over soon, see where your systems at and generally make nuisances of ourselves.
(Brian will bring the cakes, sure that's right Brian?)

struth
21-01-2015, 23:12
Plenty tea n coffee and shortbread (got a tin for xmas pressie) :) ...anytime; I am usually here or not far.

brian2957
21-01-2015, 23:37
Yeah , I'm sure I can stretch to some cakes . :D

struth
22-01-2015, 00:25
Yeah , I'm sure I can stretch to some cakes . :D

Mmmmm nice!!!:)

struth
30-01-2015, 13:21
well new dac has been installed for a while and am happy . up to now i had the cd player on it but just recieved a mini tos to tos cable so went out and got the little sabre dac in and am using it as a feed to the toslink of the main dac from the lappy. although the signal is a little lower than my present set up it sounds great.
pics to follow!http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/30/36cae9fa79cca807f339906e80d0a67e.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/30/2c319f064e4bc93dbf74fba310d219b6.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/30/6b0cf4c731ddc7e546c6b425b4b8dcae.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/30/9226494ce529de94e50a64abd983b084.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/30/42cab0f5ba64f9f0044f111db86d9b4e.jpg

watch out for some sales threads.

struth
01-02-2015, 11:02
have been re finishing the kef cabs and grills. the ebony finish is rather nice.
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/01/a5339fbb1ecb47b8a673b590e238a759.jpg

To

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/01/ba95daa73ca8a4ed9cad959870dfa0fc.jpg
Once stable they'll get some oil or wax.

struth
01-02-2015, 11:08
And the grills with some fabric spray

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/01/2c5282b8b3fed7fdea77f867502c3aab.jpg

struth
01-02-2015, 13:25
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/01/c706cd1259ffe7fca81fc6063611c52c.jpg

Finished.[emoji12]

struth
01-02-2015, 14:19
And connected on stands ready for action

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/01/c4e8effde036528f2b941e2e79eeb0a5.jpg


edit. sound very good. will need spreading of course but they sound top notch. not bad for free and 9 quid for stands

Macca
01-02-2015, 14:55
They do look good. What is the sound like? I always think of KEFs of that era as being crisp and polite, bit of richness in the bass: a real 'hi fi dem room' sound.

Audio Al
01-02-2015, 14:59
have been re finishing the kef cabs and grills. the ebony finish is rather nice.
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/01/a5339fbb1ecb47b8a673b590e238a759.jpg

To

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/01/ba95daa73ca8a4ed9cad959870dfa0fc.jpg
Once stable they'll get some oil or wax.

Grant
Did you treat them with SlimFast so they would fit in better :D

struth
01-02-2015, 15:06
Lol..yep strawberry to make em sweet and banana for the plugs[emoji12]

Decided to put them in for now and pull out the q, s.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/01/e104eb9b0050591bf03d61168e291431.jpg

struth
01-02-2015, 15:12
They do look good. What is the sound like? I always think of KEFs of that era as being crisp and polite, bit of richness in the bass: a real 'hi fi dem room' sound.

they are surprisingly delicate but with some nice tight base too from that big radiator. good spread and depth now ive got them separated a fair bit. the cabs and grill are looking very nice too. just need to fit sooe velcro in the places where the studs have been broken. sure i have some sticky pads in shed.

an knackered and sore now but ive achieved sommat. theyve been sitting in the middle of floor in my living room for about 5 weeks

Gazjam
01-02-2015, 18:34
Top job Sir. :)

walpurgis
01-02-2015, 19:16
Speakers and system looking good Grant.


But do you really need that cooker extraction hood above the TT? :D

struth
01-02-2015, 19:24
Top job Sir. :)
Thank you...saves you a job[emoji12]

struth
01-02-2015, 19:27
Speakers and system looking good Grant.


But do you really need that cooker extraction hood above the TT? :D
lol....its my yamaha sound projector...tbh it is surplus at moment and may sell it. was an expensive piece of kit and sounds fantabidozy when set up. used it when listening to music dvds mostly and it really gave you the feel of a gig. you can also attach a sub to it should you wish extra base but i never bothered.

MCRU
01-02-2015, 19:27
Thank you...saves you a job[emoji12]

nice to see the cordless phone went, rfi galore with those things

struth
01-02-2015, 19:47
nice to see the cordless phone went, rfi galore with those things

Alas it is still in the corner; nowhere else it can go as the connection is there. It has never caused any problems in this system though; well, not that I've heard. The connection in the shed does though.

Gazjam
01-02-2015, 20:49
Thank you...saves you a job[emoji12]

Dammit! :doh:
Happy to say there will be more which I'm happy to do :)

struth
02-02-2015, 00:19
Sure I have the odd job for you :eyebrows::lol:

A couple of Higher rez shots

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/a6i8yc.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/PRvinq.jpg

walpurgis
02-02-2015, 00:28
Ushers will be up for grabs shortly Grant. Interested? (at a favourable price)

They're very nice, but I have new things to get involved with..

struth
02-02-2015, 00:31
Ushers will be up for grabs shortly Grant. Interested? (at a favourable price)

They're very nice, but I have new things to get involved with..

if I can move a few things then yes I'd think so. I like them... intend getting some decent photos together shortly. Hows the Philips getting on?

walpurgis
02-02-2015, 10:35
if I can move a few things then yes I'd think so. I like them... intend getting some decent photos together shortly. Hows the Philips getting on?

The Philips are quite a surprise. I have plans for them.

Roy S
02-02-2015, 21:35
The Q's are pretty punchy, and will see me out I think.

:eek: (sorry Grant, couldn't resist)

struth
02-02-2015, 21:38
:eek: (sorry Grant, couldn't resist)

Yep; shit happens Roy :) anyways the kefs are pretty decent replacement.

struth
08-02-2015, 17:04
Just ordered one of these from Japan for my new cart.

http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/NTAwWDUwMA==/z/wFEAAOSw0e9U1H3o/$_12.JPG


birthday present from the boy

struth
09-02-2015, 22:24
Quite like these Kef speakers. Might be an Idea to have the xovers done

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/a6i8yc.jpg

User211
09-02-2015, 22:42
If you quite like them don't touch them. "Quite like" is a pretty good thing to achieve in this hobby:lol:

walpurgis
09-02-2015, 22:45
Just ordered one of these from Japan for my new cart.

Which "new cart" might that be Grant?

walpurgis
09-02-2015, 22:46
If you quite like them don't touch them. "Quite like" is a pretty good thing to achieve in this hobby:lol:

I tend to agree.

Floyddroid
09-02-2015, 22:50
Where did you get the light Grant? Is it battery? do you have a link?
This came today

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/19/7079d69412f2f6c3519bba3edfdc58b6.jpg


As did this

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/19/6a2fa5cdde5a81354095749d845473aa.jpg

Which does this

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/11/19/7291b73f83ad1b742e7c6b480be7066d.jpg


Felt the disc could do with more support at centre. Might not work but will give it a spin.

The light is so I can see the stylus better

struth
09-02-2015, 22:51
Which "new cart" might that be Grant?

DL160 :eyebrows:


as for the xovers, ; well they'll be 30 years old so may be gong out of spec about now

struth
09-02-2015, 22:53
Where did you get the light Grant? Is it battery? do you have a link?

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Turntable-Lamp-Portable-LED-Turntable-Lamp-Plattenspieler-Leuchte/141561268554?_trksid=p2047675.c100012.m1985&_trkparms=aid%3D444000%26algo%3DSOI.DEFAULT%26ao%3 D1%26asc%3D20140221143856%26meid%3Df3db9c5bfe4f421 6aa459622a32fd0d8%26pid%3D100012%26rk%3D3%26rkt%3D 10%26sd%3D141442425650


yes battery. its pretty well made.not cheap but will last a lifetime

walpurgis
09-02-2015, 23:05
DL160 :eyebrows:

I suspected it might be. You'll like that. Compared to the 110 it is more refined and has a more substantial sound.

struth
09-02-2015, 23:19
I suspected it might be. You'll like that. Compared to the 110 it is more refined and has a more substantial sound.

Congrats on the 9000 ;) It was a good price. I could have got a JICO Shibata Stylus for the trusty at95 for the same money :scratch:

walpurgis
09-02-2015, 23:24
Congrats on the 9000 ;) It was a good price. I could have got a JICO Shibata Stylus for the trusty at95 for the same money :scratch:

Oh, 9000. I hadn't noticed that coming up. I must be getting a bit too prolific. Not much else to do at the moment until I re-embark on the decorating! :lol:

Floyddroid
09-02-2015, 23:36
Kinell seventy five squid.
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Turntable-Lamp-Portable-LED-Turntable-Lamp-Plattenspieler-Leuchte/141561268554?_trksid=p2047675.c100012.m1985&_trkparms=aid%3D444000%26algo%3DSOI.DEFAULT%26ao%3 D1%26asc%3D20140221143856%26meid%3Df3db9c5bfe4f421 6aa459622a32fd0d8%26pid%3D100012%26rk%3D3%26rkt%3D 10%26sd%3D141442425650


yes battery. its pretty well made.not cheap but will last a lifetime

struth
09-02-2015, 23:43
Quality costs, and he is the only person doing them. I like t and had an ebay voucher for 20 that made it more palatable.

struth
13-02-2015, 11:47
The Bren1 clamp arrived this morning. looking very nice. super finish and looks the part. will try it out on a record later.
a quick pic of it at rest.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/13/f4a917cb6e440b32eda729516f6d5436.jpg

Gazjam
13-02-2015, 12:52
Looking nice Grant..

any chance of a night-time piccie with the LED lamp on? :)

struth
13-02-2015, 13:28
will do Gazza:eyebrows:

struth
13-02-2015, 14:12
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/13/833403a87d08804e56385b72a2b12a14.jpg

Not night but adjusted for effect[emoji12]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/13/d9de8ea6d307cf8ead863d84e13a362d.jpg

struth
13-02-2015, 22:35
Some night pics as requested Gary.


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/2OlCGg.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/I17Jxz.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/901/9lqPxR.jpg

Gazjam
13-02-2015, 23:53
The amber LED looks good Grant, contacted the guy, can do a powdercoated black version.
Though may need to stick a jam jar under it to make it high enough for my turntable!

Be good at night with the black Gyro and a nice Jura... :)

walpurgis
13-02-2015, 23:59
Great looking TT Grant. The Thorens does you credit. Clamp is nice.

But is that a DL-110 I see? Where's that lovely DL-160?

struth
14-02-2015, 00:14
Great looking TT Grant. The Thorens does you credit. Clamp is nice.

But is that a DL-110 I see? Where's that lovely DL-160?

Not arrived as yet, but should be soon. I will have to wait for the new headshell for it anyhow as it comes from Japan so hoping it arrives for my birthday. it'll be a nice pressie as the boy is buying it.
Just banged the soundbar trying to take it down myself...IDIOT! Keep forgetting I'm bloody useless now:doh: ah well it is now off the market till I check it out. Had a few possible buyers too.:(



The amber LED looks good Grant, contacted the guy, can do a powdercoated black version.
Though may need to stick a jam jar under it to make it high enough for my turntable!

Be good at night with the black Gyro and a nice Jura...

Gary, yes I never thought about that with the gorbe. was thinking it would sit on the motor but the pulleys are there. lol. sure you could make something nice to support it... a nice bit of turned ebony maybe?


dont suppose your compy stuff would fit a lappy?

walpurgis
14-02-2015, 00:21
Not arrived as yet, but should be soon. I will have to wait for the new headshell for it anyhow as it comes from Japan so hoping it arrives for my birthday. it'll be a nice pressie as the boy is buying it.

The DL-160 will be fine in your existing headshell. Have you ever considered trying the fluid damper for the SME. They can work very well, but results are not predictable until you try it! The fluid damper on my Mission works a treat.

struth
14-02-2015, 00:23
The DL-160 will be fine in your existing headshell. Have you ever considered trying the fluid damper for the SME. They can work very well, but results are not predictable until you try it! The fluid damper on my Mission works a treat.

Never really heard of it Geoff. so answer is not so far lol. might be an interesting idea. I will try and google it.

walpurgis
14-02-2015, 00:26
Never really heard of it Geoff. so answer is not so far lol. might be an interesting idea. I will try and google it.

The 3009 damper crops up on eBay now and then.

My betting is that Andr'e knows more about it than I do. I've not owned one.

struth
14-02-2015, 00:39
I was getting the extra wood headshell so it would be easy to swap out. I like these wood heads. I have an extra 110 so may sell it now or swap i for summat nice. still got a few heads lying spare including the shimiko as the guy never came forward for it... (my gain, his loss) was thinking of getting speedysteve to make me a couple of heavier weights for the arm, maybe out of brass....the contrast would be nice and will go with my new puck.

walpurgis
14-02-2015, 00:46
It's the FD200. Thought it may be of interest.

http://i60.tinypic.com/15efu9z.jpg

struth
14-02-2015, 12:01
Right.it a sort of trough then. Interesting ....

The headshell just popped through along the the cart

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/14/c957bd5b9e7d4327318e50d6b7448380.jpg

walpurgis
14-02-2015, 13:06
I'm waiting with bated breath! :)

struth
14-02-2015, 14:28
Well got it assembled. Set to 1.8 gram.
Next try[emoji12]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/14/a2769645ae06f074ec24b60d318af42d.jpg
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/14/cde656e241b78fa9036c7d4da8cba4ce.jpg

Audio Al
14-02-2015, 14:35
Grant

Have you put small washers under the cartridge bolts ? If not you may damage the blackwood if tightened to much

struth
14-02-2015, 14:38
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/14/eed347a0655e23744d911561acefc135.jpg

Siblime. Sounds bang on first time.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/14/7f80c2f301dfffa7b91b9dc81d03bdcd.jpg

struth
14-02-2015, 16:00
Some more pictures of the head

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/14/74ae2ad989f25d03362dbbd3c45bf0cc.jpg
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/14/feb5236ca31f0b75f39da842b5b905c3.jpg
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/14/541e9434a3ba710b103d964af9a8a196.jpg

walpurgis
14-02-2015, 16:12
Siblime. Sounds bang on first time.

Nice isn't it. Definitely a step up compared to the 110. My favourite HO MC actually, it just gets everything right. Have you also noticed how quiet it is on surface noise?

struth
14-02-2015, 16:15
yep. seems pretty quiet although just listened to 2 sides. dont want to take any chances as im tired now...dont want any more accidents:D
really nicely made shell too...a piece of quality

struth
14-02-2015, 17:31
Grant

Sorry Al, missed this.

Have you put small washers under the cartridge bolts ? If not you may damage the blackwood if tightened to much

I haven't Al, and don'y have any gold ones at moment. I usually don't over tighten them tbh ;as long as it doesn't move it works fine to my ears anyways.

Riislingen
14-02-2015, 17:55
Clamp looks the business there ! Great set up Grant !

struth
14-02-2015, 20:48
Clamp looks the business there ! Great set up Grant !

Thanks Mikkel, I am pleased with it and the system as a whole...............so no doubt I will start mucking about with it:doh::D

walpurgis
14-02-2015, 20:55
Do you want some washers Grant? I've got a stock of black nylon ones the right size. I can bung some in the post.

struth
14-02-2015, 21:00
Do you want some washers Grant? I've got a stock of black nylon ones the right size. I can bung some in the post.

......thanks Geoff. just pop them in with the tannoy dc's ;)

Andrei
14-02-2015, 21:29
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/14/eed347a0655e23744d911561acefc135.jpg

Siblime. Sounds bang on first time.
It's sure to improve with age :wheniwasaboy:

struth
14-02-2015, 22:05
I haven't :lol: Its got 100 hrs on it so well broken in Andrei.. lovely condition and sounding great... the headshell helps too ...I find wood very musical

Andrei
14-02-2015, 23:29
I haven't :lol:
Some that medicine from Scotland seems to help, albeit temporarily


the headshell helps too ...I find wood very musical
By co-incidence I ordered the same headshell a couple of days ago. Takes a couple of weeks to get here - depends on the strength and direction of the wind.

struth
14-02-2015, 23:33
I ordered mine on the 8th so pretty quick. you'll like it. comes with a holding block and gold screws

Canetoad
14-02-2015, 23:34
Well got it assembled. Set to 1.8 gram.
Next try[emoji12]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/14/a2769645ae06f074ec24b60d318af42d.jpg
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/14/cde656e241b78fa9036c7d4da8cba4ce.jpg

1.8 grams is a bit high. From memory the instructions suggest 1.6 as optimal. This is what I run mine at.

I've actually replaced mine with a Nagaoka MP-150, which seems to have more drive and better bass (rock) than the Denon. Soundstaging and detail using the Denon is very good though. You're also spot on with your comment about reduced surface noise.

struth
15-02-2015, 10:12
yeah its at the higher end 1.3 to 1.9.gm. might try it back at 1.6gm today now ive had a rest and see if it sounds any different.

struth
15-02-2015, 12:03
now at 1.6gm playing fine and possibly a touch better soundstage. noticed with the addition of the puck weight the platter was a tad too close to grounding for my liking so added a little oil to bearing(think it was slightly low).Seems better now..i have a micro oil pen that is ideal for the job.

struth
15-02-2015, 22:22
Did some more listening in afternoon and I am happy now that all is just right. Louis's trumpet was right there in front of me....:eyebrows:

Gazjam
15-02-2015, 23:17
Love it when a plan comes together... :)

struth
17-02-2015, 17:34
I've been bad.................;)

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/905/QTjcAT.jpg

Firebottle
17-02-2015, 17:55
When are you not bad Grant ;)

walpurgis
17-02-2015, 18:27
I've been bad.................;)

Again? :rolleyes:


(what are they?)

struth
17-02-2015, 18:39
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/17/69e7c46248ace595da67cabf4f2450e8.jpg

walpurgis
17-02-2015, 18:45
Oh.

And there I was saying rude things about them the other day. :D

(look in good nick)

struth
17-02-2015, 18:50
Oh.

And there I was saying rude things about them the other day. :D

(look in good nick)

:lol:

knew you would.;) yes they are much better than i thought. hes done a nice job and came next day with yodel in undamaged nick. think he is a pfish guy. once i get the wifes room cleared i was gonna set up my valve job in there with these

struth
17-02-2015, 18:59
The pics on the sale thread did not do them justice. they are quite big too:eyebrows: Sound pretty decent as well and just currently got a t amp on it

struth
17-02-2015, 19:36
A couple of better ones of my new IMG super compacts...Hell if these are compact wouldn't want to see the others[emoji12]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/17/da161232de7130621ca069b9d5cf561a.jpg
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/17/3e6bf6313a4ab4145d490e5e66632300.jpg

A little grainy but it was just the phone

walpurgis
17-02-2015, 19:45
They look good.

(amazing how many makers used that same grille cloth type back then. IMF, LNB, EMI, Celef, MS, Lowther and so on)

struth
17-02-2015, 21:43
Yeah the cloth is remarkably good geoff considering its age. no marks, pulls. it doesnt show in the pics alas but it is much better than the pics. The base drivers are Kef 200's now and sound very nice in it. These with the Yaqin will sound nice I reckon.
Had to buy them as I always wanted a pair lol.

jandl100
18-02-2015, 09:39
... the headshell helps too ...I find wood very musical

Interesting - thanks for the tip, Grant.
I've just ordered a woody to have a go with. :) ... mine's cheaper, mind. :eyebrows:

Gazjam
18-02-2015, 10:38
Looking very nice Grant, nice one. :)

struth
18-02-2015, 19:02
Some Hi Rez of the latest acquisitions.

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/MSIOyq.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/910/fCbBUj.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/529fXU.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/661/hh6ZRd.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/537/DOV5Td.jpg


and a quickie of my sputnik weather station that I found again and did up :eyebrows:

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/538/jTxsqK.jpg

struth
19-02-2015, 23:37
I received a digital stylus scale today...thought I should move into the 20th century :) I know, I know I'm a century too late. I checked the weight on the 160 to what was aparently spot on 1.6 gm with the sure shure that I;ve had for years... it was . 24 of a gm out....:stalks: ..well it aint now :lol:

walpurgis
19-02-2015, 23:56
How do the IMFs compare to the KEFs?

struth
20-02-2015, 00:07
How do the IMFs compare to the KEFs?

I have not yet tried them in the main system geoff. I took them upstairs and tried them with the amptastic where they still are as I dont feel up to moving them again. They certainly sound nice ; very nice actually and it would be an i dea to try with the main system. Alas it will have to wait till I am up to it.
on the covers front, Paul has finished recovering the KEF's so should be with me next week. He reckons they look spiffing :eyebrows:

walpurgis
20-02-2015, 00:12
Well if you're having a birthday drinkie Grant, I'd definitely leave it for another day. (you don't need another disaster :)). Hope you're taking it easy and chilling.

(and you still haven't told me if those washers turned up. I sent them on Sunday. If they've gone missing tell me)

struth
20-02-2015, 00:16
I mentioned it some wher Geoff...YES they came and are in my box of cart bits.... I will fit them next time I have the cart moved. It is sounding so good I dont want to muck about for now...thanks again:)

walpurgis
20-02-2015, 00:18
they came and are in my box of cart bits


Ah. Good!

struth
20-02-2015, 00:23
Well if you're having a birthday drinkie Grant, I'd definitely leave it for another day. (you don't need another disaster :)). Hope you're taking it easy and chilling.

(and you still haven't told me if those washers turned up. I sent them on Sunday. If they've gone missing tell me)

It damned near killed me getting them unpacked(which was superb) and then upstairs via the stairlift etc. I think when attached to a seriously powereful amp they will sound top ho:)

walpurgis
20-02-2015, 00:41
The IMFs won't need bags of power Grant. I'd not be looking at needing more than 50 watts and 20+ decent watts should do perfectly well. My 15 watt valve monos drove a pair of them fine with loads of grip.

struth
20-02-2015, 10:04
Think the Yaqin gives 30 watts so should be a decent match.

struth
26-02-2015, 10:45
The kef recovers have landed. look terrific..thanks to Paul rffc they look loke new now and at a very reasonable cost.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/26/89d69df46c9c7c174ecdcbb73604a608.jpg

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/26/3ff29e833c56e338dd76545462550f81.jpg

walpurgis
26-02-2015, 10:48
Nice job!

struth
26-02-2015, 11:31
A better shot

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/26/427e471af318b40b756cfed6e0e33457.jpg

Gazjam
26-02-2015, 11:54
Ooh nice. :)


The kef recovers have landed. look terrific..thanks to Paul rffc they look loke new now and at a very reasonable cost.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/26/89d69df46c9c7c174ecdcbb73604a608.jpg

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/26/3ff29e833c56e338dd76545462550f81.jpg

Reffc
26-02-2015, 12:04
Glad they fit the bill Grant :thumbsup:

struth
26-02-2015, 12:11
Glad they fit the bill Grant :thumbsup:

yes there super. the one you fixed was a little awkward to refit. theyre were only 3 plugs left and i had retro fitted velcro as youll have noticed. with the perfect repair you did the studs were not keen to line up lol. but a bit of perseveance they went on. i know now to put the single side in first.
top job mate:)

struth
26-02-2015, 15:22
Also arrived today is this

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/26/af27917e3e997749b41670527fc637d1.jpg

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/26/c8e9087bc2273feafd246c70bbc887ca.jpg

They are a pack of 2 10cm sq blocks of sorbothane. I cut one into 4 and have put them under the tt As extra damping. Heavy thick slabs they are too.

walpurgis
26-02-2015, 17:10
I've got similar under my DAC and pre-amp.

struth
26-02-2015, 23:52
I also connected the copper pre to my Amptastic today. Sounded damned good although the overall gain of the pre has to be watched as it can overload the little amp.
Pic to follow

struth
26-02-2015, 23:54
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/26/e8e740f872a9953e03b6ac1fb2cb7ae9.jpg

struth
27-02-2015, 23:51
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/27/a3c2fe35dd3f1408904ae721776716b1.jpg

Used the spare lump of sorbothane under the pre on speaker to raise it off the surface. Just about perfect and raises it about 3 mil off.protected the speaker with a coaster

Ninanina
28-02-2015, 00:29
Also arrived today is this

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/26/af27917e3e997749b41670527fc637d1.jpg

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/26/c8e9087bc2273feafd246c70bbc887ca.jpg

They are a pack of 2 10cm sq blocks of sorbothane. I cut one into 4 and have put them under the tt As extra damping. Heavy thick slabs they are too.

Grant can you tell me where you purchased the sorbothane blocks from? Thanks...

struth
28-02-2015, 00:31
Amazon Bev.. Here is the link. http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0042UAHHK?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

Ninanina
28-02-2015, 00:32
Amazon Bev.. Here is the link. http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0042UAHHK?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

Thanks Grant...;)

hermit
28-02-2015, 00:57
Grant, the IMFs look lovely and original. They look to share the drivers with my TLS50s save for the Coles super-tweeter. I think the midrange is by Peerless and it is a peach. Have you thought about recapping them? The reason that I ask is that many of the electrolytics, Elcaps I think, will have drifted. I had mine done by Giovanni of Retro Reproductions and it made a significant difference. Falcon have kits of like for like 2% matched Alcaps for the IMFs and I know supply is running short. Might even be worth buying the kit now and hold it back for later. The whole kit is only about £20 delivered.

struth
28-02-2015, 10:52
theyve been done Paul. quite nice speakers and maybe wasted in the bedroom. lol
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/28/820ab7161f3a04533c067a7deb1d57f4.jpg

the bass drivers have been replaced and are kef b200's. sound is top notch

hermit
28-02-2015, 11:30
It's good that they've been recapped. At least you can judge them knowing they're up to spec. Wasted in the bedroom? I've never heard a pair so I can't judge but I imagine they would benefit from the extra grunt that the Arcam offers. My IMFs are not a difficult load but they are somewhat insensitive. Definitely worth a try in your main system at some point. I head west several times a month so if you would like a hand with the lifting and shifting just drop me a pm.

struth
28-02-2015, 11:44
It's good that they've been recapped. At least you can judge them knowing they're up to spec. Wasted in the bedroom? I've never heard a pair so I can't judge but I imagine they would benefit from the extra grunt that the Arcam offers. My IMFs are not a difficult load but they are somewhat insensitive. Definitely worth a try in your main system at some point. I head west several times a month so if you would like a hand with the lifting and shifting just drop me a pm.

cheers Paul.. it would be interesting to put them up against the kefs sometime..wonder which would win.:scratch:

struth
01-03-2015, 15:55
Got bored! :eyebrows: .....as the nak pre sale fell through i decided to try it in the main system as a pre only having tried it with other speaks and then mostly just as a phono into another pre.
waow it is sounding tremendous....
so thanks for not buying lol..... think the arcam integrated will possibly be getting sold[emoji38]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/01/0f75256908fa136ae0aaf2297e6e2874.jpg

Think I should think about getting a black faceplate for the firebottle..kinda sticks out now

struth
07-03-2015, 11:01
Black in the Rack....it even arrived undamaged and working:eyebrows:

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/07/7083d919aa8114762f5e139b3a42e211.jpg

Gazjam
07-03-2015, 11:59
Got bored! :eyebrows: .....as the nak pre sale fell through i decided to try it in the main system as a pre only having tried it with other speaks and then mostly just as a phono into another pre.
waow it is sounding tremendous....
so thanks for not buying lol..... think the arcam integrated will possibly be getting sold[emoji38]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/01/0f75256908fa136ae0aaf2297e6e2874.jpg

Think I should think about getting a black faceplate for the firebottle..kinda sticks out now

Hear you on the black Grant....
BEFORE:
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/2013-04-25%2016.43.45_1.jpg (http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/2013-04-25%2016.43.45_1.jpg.html)

AFTER:
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/258444a0aa36aaa991f78d49ada938bf.jpg (http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/258444a0aa36aaa991f78d49ada938bf.jpg.html)

Got the Young Dac and the chassis of my Gyro sprayed black by local car paint shop.
Cheap too.

Something you need to look at, the silver sticking out always bothered me...talk about first world problems! :D


About the Nak...uhm, your welcome? :)

struth
08-03-2015, 11:05
I am coping with the small silver one. a black front might be nice but not sure he does replacements. anyways if it was black i would have to stop improving :lol: wired up the internet radio too as had space in the rack. feet under the power amp thanks to Nigel too...
never sounded as good.

the black 717 is so much nicer than the silver ones too

Gazjam
08-03-2015, 11:35
The black 717 looks the biz Grant...

struth
08-03-2015, 14:15
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/08/9c7f25bca8ed6d88707c5f7f82226a32.jpg

Full on shot!!!really hope i am finished now:eyebrows: and can die happy!


Apart from the laptop everything else has changed since i thought i was finished.!

I AINT DOING THAT TRIP AGAIN!

struth
09-03-2015, 11:16
Forgot to show a picture of the lighter puck I got

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/09/418a390d0233332bf4f72d48516c03b8.jpg

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/09/043340a4765c629984f2c89779ccdd5e.jpg

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/09/b5d731c4187f8c6d97248c9ede00ed81.jpg

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/09/b60c1bce24584ed90bb15b22fc3c5d81.jpg

Gazjam
09-03-2015, 17:08
Good looking puck.
Matches the black metal top plate of the 160 nicely.

...not that looks or that "all black" vibe is important! :)

struth
09-03-2015, 20:12
Good looking puck.
Matches the black metal top plate of the 160 nicely.

...not that looks or that "all black" vibe is important! :)

Couldn't be further from my thoughts mate ;) It is very nice actually and the presentation faultless. Typical Teutonic style and efficiency :eyebrows:

struth
11-03-2015, 21:24
Picked up a used "Power inspired" regenerator today. have set it up before my Belkin....Have to admit, It does sound better :eyebrows: Hard to imagine, I know as it is sooo good already :lol:

cheers to Brian.

struth
12-03-2015, 14:59
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/12/100a70eae7986594fbe2cf8fd3829397.jpg

Gazjam
12-03-2015, 19:50
Glad it worked out well for you Grant. :)
That'll help a bit against that bloody train!

struth
12-03-2015, 19:59
Glad it worked out well for you Grant. :)
That'll help a bit against that bloody train!

Yep, sounded bloody good today...still to take the brackets off though and have to keep it on though have read thats ok.

brian2957
12-03-2015, 20:15
I really enjoyed my visit to yours yesterday Grant . It was a welcome break from putting my house back together after having a new central heating system installed . Back to the slog today though , Ho-Hum :rolleyes: You have a very nice system there and the photos of that beautiful Thorens deck just don't do it justice , that's my kind of hifi mate . Glad you're happy with the AG500 . As my system has expanded the load on the regen just got to the stage that it was getting too near maximum percentage of available power for my liking . I will go for an AG1500 when funds are available.
The little Amptastic and Chinese PSU are making me very happy over here too :D

struth
12-03-2015, 21:17
Great to have you both over mate. Glad you liked my humble system; It is starting to sound pretty decent for what it is imo. and yes the regen is improving the mains a bit more, and with the filters after it and the steady 50hz both cd and vinyl have jumped in performance.
Glad the t amp and psu is doing it for you. That psu must have been the shorted owned in history :lol:

brian2957
12-03-2015, 21:23
Aye , I think I'll have it a bit longer than you mate .:)
Incidentally I was correct in assuming that these PSUs are adjustable Grant . For some reason the seller doesn't point this out in his listings . Makes them quite versatile IMO.

struth
12-03-2015, 21:45
Aye , I think I'll have it a bit longer than you mate .:)
Incidentally I was correct in assuming that these PSUs are adjustable Grant . For some reason the seller doesn't point this out in his listings . Makes them quite versatile IMO.

So was it the same inside as your one then? and just a different name on the front.

brian2957
12-03-2015, 21:56
Same seller but a different PSU Grant . Gives me more options for powering the various pieces of kit I've now got Grant so it will get used mate.

struth
13-03-2015, 11:37
New arrivals a set of Mission 737 renaissance. main driver looks good. not sure about those tweeters though...might be ok.
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/13/a08052662bcb0f5d920c03265666f5c8.jpg
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/13/b1fe86d82e3245809675385f73951a0d.jpg
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/13/cd9fc39244c121c9eba89e101d16472b.jpg

Roy S
13-03-2015, 11:45
Where these ones going Grant?

struth
13-03-2015, 11:52
dunno roy...my brother gave me then in part exchange for the q's. theyll need the xovers done as theyre 30odd years old. good nivk though and just need a touch up and re stain waxed..got the very colour in stock. might need new covers not sure. may move them on unless i fall for them

CageyH
13-03-2015, 12:02
Any news on the Shibata yet Grant?

struth
13-03-2015, 12:13
Any news on the Shibata yet Grant?

no not arrived...last time i checked the tracking it was still in the states although that could be out of date.
got the cherrywood. mounted with the cart in anticipation though.:eyebrows:

CageyH
13-03-2015, 12:23
I was going to go for the one from Thakker. Import duty and PO handling fees could make the other one more expensive.

struth
13-03-2015, 13:06
160 euros is way more than i paid. not sure if i will have any extra import duty yet. even if i do it will probably be slightly cheaper. would be an interesting comparison as to which is better....or are they just the same?

Desmo
13-03-2015, 13:14
Same seller but a different PSU Grant . Gives me more options for powering the various pieces of kit I've now got Grant so it will get used mate.

Hi Brian, I'm interested in these PSU's.

I'm considering them for my Caiman II DAC (15v) and for my Stereo Coffee LDR pre amp (12v), can you tell from the units that you have what the available adjustable range is? I see that the seller does offer a couple of 12v models, and also some 15v models. My question is whether I can buy one and adjust to either 12 or 15v. And if so am I better to get a 15v and adjust it down to 12v or the other way round? (Hope that makes sense).

Thanks.

Gazjam
13-03-2015, 14:36
AWESOME
Loved the big Missions back in the day, mate of mine had the 770's.
Pauls yer man for sorting the crossovers I think.


New arrivals a set of Mission 737 renaissance. main driver looks good. not sure about those tweeters though...might be ok.
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/13/a08052662bcb0f5d920c03265666f5c8.jpg
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/13/b1fe86d82e3245809675385f73951a0d.jpg
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/13/cd9fc39244c121c9eba89e101d16472b.jpg

brian2957
13-03-2015, 14:42
Hi Graeme , the one I bought was set at 12V and I adjusted it up to 14V . It will go up to 15V . TBH wih you I think these are all the same PSUs and the seller adjusts them as necessary .

Desmo
13-03-2015, 14:46
Thanks Brian, That makes sense, at least it does for the seller as he does not need to carry as much stock!

I'll probably order one up and see where it gets me :-)

struth
13-03-2015, 17:24
AWESOME
Loved the big Missions back in the day, mate of mine had the 770's.
Pauls yer man for sorting the crossovers I think.

They're not bad looking are they ;). I remember my bro buying them early 80's in a hifi shop down Leith way. Cabs will come up nicely and xover should be easy for Paul. Might get the covers done as well if I like em. He's off with the little Q's and stands. his wife never ever liked the missions so she's happy.

struth
14-03-2015, 13:39
Been redoing the cabinets on the missions. they have come up well and im nackered [emoji12]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/14/363e9c86afe5b45d830c848b1c20e94c.jpg

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/14/6596de89d9e3d7435d0d1739844858ea.jpg

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/14/8a72c8908107cd2614643cd183072aac.jpg

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/14/2cb6c34471cb44b43dc138a1dd497f7f.jpg

struth
14-03-2015, 18:18
Due to decommissioning my bedroom system I was tuneless upstairs.
So I have installed jriver in my win 8 lippy. Connected my old hrt streamer and external cd player and some active creative labs speakers. A few settings tweaked and hey presto we have muzak. ..sounds pretty good actually

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/14/f9536e233080bab2a4e7b36c9b0601f9.jpg

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/14/ff30c5c5743e8195d6f5460ffc3cf23a.jpg

Gazjam
16-03-2015, 20:54
Come up a treat Grant, crackin' job mate.


Been redoing the cabinets on the missions. they have come up well and im nackered [emoji12]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/14/363e9c86afe5b45d830c848b1c20e94c.jpg
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/14/6596de89d9e3d7435d0d1739844858ea.jpg
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/14/8a72c8908107cd2614643cd183072aac.jpg
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/14/2cb6c34471cb44b43dc138a1dd497f7f.jpg

struth
16-03-2015, 22:12
Come up a treat Grant, crackin' job mate.

Need to see if I can manage to get the xovers out sometime. will have to wait though as I have hurt my good leg now :doh: canny win :lol: Or just sell em....dunno

jandl100
18-03-2015, 10:04
Come up a treat Grant, crackin' job mate.

Wow - those cabs do look good, Grant. :thumbsup:

What's the secret process?

struth
18-03-2015, 10:21
It depends on what is needed. these were not bad so just did a light clean then strip the old finish off with fine wire wool and restore fluid. another light wash then in this case i just waxed them with super fine wire wool. then hand buff. used ebony stain for the top of the covers as they were dirty and faded put on with a small brush.

walpurgis
18-03-2015, 10:34
They certainly look good Grant. How do they sound?

struth
18-03-2015, 10:39
They certainly look good Grant. How do they sound?

Not tried them yet. really need to pull the xovers as theyre 33 years young. I dont expect there will be much in it tbh and probably attached to the terminal plate. will likely send them down to Paul.
might try em first. you never know. they didnt sound great in bros system but it is crap so it is not surprising ....lol

I think the finish is Flamed Walnut which is difficult to replicate. thats why i was keen not to completely redo them

struth
18-03-2015, 14:22
wired the Missions up. Pretty good actually. not as beguiling as the Kefs but nice. they are a little low but cases of water was all I had. lol.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/18/c5d9a0ebe67cda912625147d82aef1bf.jpg

Gazjam
18-03-2015, 15:09
wired the Missions up. Pretty good actually. not as beguiling as the Kefs but nice. they are a little low but cases of water was all I had. lol.

*insert water related hifi pun here* :D

Be worth getting the crossovers fettled Grant, Brian's old Rega floorstanders had a makeover by Paul and were improved a lot.

struth
18-03-2015, 15:48
*insert water related hifi pun here* :D

Be worth getting the crossovers fettled Grant, Brian's old Rega floorstanders had a makeover by Paul and were improved a lot.

yep. I am assuming they are on the back of the speaker posts. last set of missions i saw were and were a similar age. certainly good speakers. 8 1/2"clear polypropylene woofer and i think an Audax TW025A0 tweeter. Real walnut veneer and a resistive port.
Open the bidding please:ner:

zombilly
19-03-2015, 01:30
Thats a ver nice Thorens there Grant,facia is in much better nick than mine. I hope I dont tempt you into being bad grant but saw this......http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Thorens-TD-160-Super-sub-chassis-and-inner-platter-/191537132908. And then all you would need is the sub plater ftom a 150....

struth
19-03-2015, 09:57
LOL. no I think i will stick with what i have. fancied a 150 to do but skint so not going there. the dc motor option interests me or as a cheaper option the srm motor thrust bearing which is only £20. they do mini platter discs too for this tt

struth
19-03-2015, 13:36
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/19/e64579f7d02d13862a712d3994e8b092.jpg :eyebrows:

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/19/c433739a0260196f98cd21959289b0cd.jpg :eyebrows::eyebrows:

struth
19-03-2015, 13:51
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/19/6995ee91262eede54116cc18e672f5b7.jpg[emoji12]

zombilly
19-03-2015, 14:57
you do good analogue pron Grant. Ima going to give this a try http://www.originlive.com/dc-motor-kit.html just gotta let my Clearaudio modded Emotion go to finance it. Will let you know how it sounds,hoping it will be in the next week or two. Took delivery of an Origin Live belt and steel mat today. Allround excellence ensued-tho there is a hint of motor noise breaking through between tracks. Belt was 30 quid but comes with a two year warranty and is thicker than the average belt. Had a Thakker on before,it lwsted about three months. That 160 of yours. I approve.

struth
19-03-2015, 15:38
you do good analogue pron Grant. Ima going to give this a try http://www.originlive.com/dc-motor-kit.html just gotta let my Clearaudio modded Emotion go to finance it. Will let you know how it sounds,hoping it will be in the next week or two. Took delivery of an Origin Live belt and steel mat today. Allround excellence ensued-tho there is a hint of motor noise breaking through between tracks. Belt was 30 quid but comes with a two year warranty and is thicker than the average belt. Had a Thakker on before,it lwsted about three months. That 160 of yours. I approve.

DC Motor looks like a good upgrade. dunno what the cost is though.

Well it is official now. an AT95 cart besting a Denon dl160.:eyebrows: by a margin as well. took a Shibita Stylus to do it mind...
Sou!ds stonkingly Good once i upped the tracking weight to 2gms from the recommended 1.8. at first thought id got a pup...

Absolutely Fabulous now.

struth
19-03-2015, 16:37
More Porn


http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1280x1024q90/673/08aEWB.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1280x1024q90/673/vhmFQC.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1280x1024q90/901/JIadva.jpg

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1280x1024q90/540/sx0oqB.jpg

zombilly
19-03-2015, 17:09
Its good when a plan comes together. The kit comes to around 540 with upgraded transformes(it would be rude not to get upgrade)hopefully the Clearauio wil cover most of the cost its just sat around doing nothing the Thorens thrashes it but it is a good deck in its own right and when I had a Dynavector Karat on it was very good. Until that wan time i thought it a good idea to play records when drunk. Eight hundred and fifty quid cart wqs ruin. The motor followed by a professional rewire of the 3009 will be my final foray into upgrade land. I am happy with my system,just have to see the Thorens upgrade path to completion. How much was the stylus if you dont mind me asking?

zombilly
19-03-2015, 17:34
Nice puck also. What make need wan for the 160 I am doing atm and that would fit the bill nicely.

struth
19-03-2015, 17:51
Not sure how much it was exactly now. got it from USA....needle doctor look for at95 jico shibata stylus.

The puck was from Pathewings in Germany. its 335gms and just right for the thorens.

that dc kit is beyond my purse. I think I will go for the thrust bearing upgrade.

CageyH
19-03-2015, 18:30
So, the AT95SA is doing the business then?

struth
19-03-2015, 18:36
So, the AT95SA is doing the business then?

Yes it is now. It was a bit thin at the recommended 1.8 gm but I had read that at 2 gm it was outstanding which it is. Hard to believe that a cheap cart can be turned into a world beater just by puting a shibata stylus on. Some other makes around including one that comes with their own brand of at95 I believe but needle doctor one is really top notch. expedited international delivery so was smooth and no additional costs.

Wish I could say same about the new headshell that did not make it out of customs free DOH!!!

struth
20-03-2015, 14:12
Got a Funk Firm Mat to try..3mm version.

struth
20-03-2015, 14:42
Well that's interesting as a comparison. You know the achromatic is tightening the bass a bit more. Noise floor is lower and the output seems slightly louder. The vocalist really feels to be sitting in the seat beside me

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/20/df98eb630f44bf5b624790d45e2c0994.jpg

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/20/0a97e0a71a18e9ee3fcde02ff1e60118.jpg

zombilly
20-03-2015, 15:56
Looking good. Its yellow complexion. It pleases mine eye.

struth
20-03-2015, 20:55
Looking good. Its yellow complexion. It pleases mine eye.

Yes, its bright banana yellow. still it was not a banana skin as far as SQ is concerned. sounding awesome. the material its made from I was not expecting though.

walpurgis
20-03-2015, 21:31
Not too sure about yellow Grant. I like dark and subtle. Still, if it sounds OK............. :)

struth
20-03-2015, 22:45
Was not sure about it myself tbh but its actually growing on me now. I after ordering saw this colour and liked it

http://www.analogueseduction.net/user/products/large/ACHROMATRED.jpg

zombilly
21-03-2015, 00:39
It reminds me of this www.youtube.com/watch?v=flMS2gHFOH0 mainly because it was released on yellow vinyl with a black label.

struth
21-03-2015, 10:18
I remember that punk track now that i hear it. didnt recognise the name at the time..the dickies

struth
22-03-2015, 11:58
Densen De Magic Demagnetizer.

I meant to do an update on this purchase a while back. Foo it may be but after using this disc I did find decernable improvements in my system. All the components are relatively old so magnetic fields will have had a chance to have been misaligned so thought what the hell for £15 it was not much of a risk.


http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/22/f19bf84ae7e266887c1cebd74a437cc4.jpg

Densen have a big rep and I doubt they would have put their name on something that is rubbish and so I found this to be true, for me anyways. I believe they treat all serviced equ to this b4 they finish service.

www.tnt-audio.com/accessories/demagic_e.html

archiesdad
24-03-2015, 21:14
Densen De Magic Demagnetizer.

I meant to do an update on this purchase a while back. Foo it may be but after using this disc I did find decernable improvements in my system. All the components are relatively old so magnetic fields will have had a chance to have been misaligned so thought what the hell for £15 it was not much of a risk.


http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/22/f19bf84ae7e266887c1cebd74a437cc4.jpg

Densen have a big rep and I doubt they would have put their name on something that is rubbish and so I found this to be true, for me anyways. I believe they treat all serviced equ to this b4 they finish service.

www.tnt-audio.com/accessories/demagic_e.html

I picked up one of these a few years ago in a sale, a mate who's in electronics said it couldn't do any harm so I use mine regularly, denson do good sounding hardware so what the hell?

Gazjam
24-03-2015, 21:23
What does it do?
Demagnetize laser bits in your CDP?

struth
24-03-2015, 21:28
It does all the magnetic paths in all your equipment. amps especially. I did feel it made a sonic improvement and thats from an old sceptic:eyebrows:

walpurgis
24-03-2015, 21:50
http://i61.tinypic.com/29gda9k.jpg :lol:

struth
24-03-2015, 22:30
http://sleeplessromantics.com/books//wp-content/uploads/2013/08/great-scot.jpg

Gazjam
24-03-2015, 22:52
works with amps? Whassatallaboot?
Wonder if Densen are doing it with my pre when its in getting a makeover?

Curious!

struth
24-03-2015, 22:58
works with amps? Whassatallaboot?
Wonder if Densen are doing it with my pre when its in getting a makeover?

Curious!

Yep, they will be mate. as far as I know they do it to all the stuff they service.. Its pretty good and it only takes 3 mins every now and then. When I did mine I got a n improvement in depth and sweetness to everything. ...Of course its just bunkum you know, thats why Densen make it ;)

walpurgis
24-03-2015, 23:10
I wave a tin of sardines over my gear, has exactly the same effect. Amazing! :D

struth
24-03-2015, 23:14
I wave a tin of sardines over my gear, has exactly the same effect. Amazing! :D

....as long as you remember to do it North/South, and not East/ West:eyebrows:

Firebottle
25-03-2015, 08:17
....as long as you remember to do it North/South, and not East/ West:eyebrows:

Shouldn't that be 'to do it North/South, and not John West' :lol:

:) Alan

struth
25-03-2015, 09:14
Shouldn't that be 'to do it North/South, and not John West' :lol:

:) Alan

that would mean BOXING his compass:eyebrows:

Gazjam
25-03-2015, 09:14
Trying REALLY hard to avoid the fish puns....
But finding it hard not to take the bait

struth
25-03-2015, 09:16
Trying REALLY hard to avoid the fish puns....
But finding it hard not to take the bait

I CATCH your DRIFT

struth
26-03-2015, 14:09
Carbon headshell has finally arrived...parcelforce cock up. it looks the business it does it does


http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/26/f465ad4dcec8f560dfb41d71d5fbbec0.jpg

walpurgis
26-03-2015, 15:56
That looks the biz.


I was rescued from a postal cock up yesterday, when a nice guy from down the road turned up with a package from America containing a pair of SUTs. They'd been dropped off at his place, a totally different address.

struth
26-03-2015, 16:42
well thats it fitted! extraordinary! :D :eyebrows:

struth
26-03-2015, 16:51
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/26/af987450bd7eed6fe3233004cb6c8a0b.jpg setting up overhang and vta

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/26/0a4c8b71f2eb276eb35203bb7fcfb3e2.jpg ready to go at 2.05gms.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/26/66b90096e440e2271d38a1b618ca2f0d.jpg bliss

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/26/2441178c07644a35acc875473ddb7447.jpg Its cooking! might have to play at half speed.[emoji12]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/26/166b02444cec7ca3765515834dfa5640.jpg

struth
27-03-2015, 14:54
Fitted these to the inner platter today. an excellent and cheap upgrade for a double platter deck like the thorens.
www.ebay.co.uk/itm/331509123501?_trksid=p2059210.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT

it has had a double benefit in also raising outer platter a mil away from the motor azimuth screw and reducing bearing noise reaching the cart.


Final shot

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/27/8fbe7449229b3710cb49761a63cf7f4c.jpg

Thank you for sharing my journey.[emoji6]

Marco
27-03-2015, 20:20
Shexy heidshell there, Granty! Like it :)

2.05g, though? Are you sure that's the correct VTF for that cartridge? It's an AT, is it not?

Marco.

struth
27-03-2015, 20:27
For the shibata, yes 2 grams approx is best. Its a lovely thing and sounds good. Just a nice weight for this arm and cart as well. Not a cheap combo though.(well not at my level):) It'll give most a run for their money now

Darren
27-03-2015, 20:33
Its wonderful to see such an individual turntable set up. Love the carbon fibre. What benefits, sound quality wise, did you gain from the Tripod platter mount thingys?

struth
27-03-2015, 20:40
Its wonderful to see such an individual turntable set up. Love the carbon fibre. What benefits, sound quality wise, did you gain from the Tripod platter mount thingys?

Lowered the floor a bit and deeper base I was listening to Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald earlier and Louis says something and I jumped out of my skin I thought someone had come into the room. I have listened to that lp many times and thats the first time it sounded quite like that :)

struth
29-03-2015, 10:40
well the mighty yaqin has left the building so am reduced to this

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/29/41941470192185a25023c6bd2a6f7b02.jpg

[emoji12] [emoji12]

Actually it sounds bloody good with the ever so matchable and sweet sounding tannoys.

struth
29-03-2015, 12:35
Here is a cleaned up picture of it.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/29/b2416eb59da4096d87c7a7d2541bf2fe.jpg

walpurgis
29-03-2015, 14:27
Unfortunately Grant. Cleaning the picture up shows that you didn't clean the amp up. :lol:

struth
29-03-2015, 15:21
YUp, not done that yet. just dug it out of its corner ...remarkably good sound...I was slagging these a while ago, but thats the first really decent speakers Ive tried it with. For a small room you could do worse. Might have to check on its voltage and put it on the variac after I give it a clean. It will do as my w/shop amp

struth
29-03-2015, 15:22
YUp, not done that yet. just dug it out of its corner ...remarkably good sound...I was slagging these a while ago, but thats the first really decent speakers Ive tried it with. For a small room you could do worse. Might have to check on its voltage and put it on the variac after I give it a clean. It will do as my w/shop amp

Looks like REAL wood effect cheeks too:eyebrows:

walpurgis
29-03-2015, 15:55
What is it by the way? Are those EL84s? If they are I'm guessing it has around 6 watts per channel.

struth
29-03-2015, 16:44
Think its called "Advance Science" and are I think now made under different names, but its a hybrid, and only uses one side of the valves. yes el34 or 84...one or t'other. puts out a bit more than that I'd say. I bought it for a larf quite a while ago, but only tried it with small 4 ohms speakers and it clipped and would shut down the output if driver too hard. seems better on 8 and went very loud without any clipping. Looks good though lol

struth
05-04-2015, 10:52
Been gathering up some of my reserve carts and putting some on heads.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/04/05/7b19f5e310e2f2ac2fa5a010c62d187c.jpg

Need more [emoji39]

walpurgis
05-04-2015, 11:02
Just been rummaging through my cart box. Twelve is too many really, trouble is, I keep getting tempted :).

struth
05-04-2015, 11:08
Just been rummaging through my cart box. Twelve is too many really, trouble is, I keep getting tempted :).

got a spare at95 on the cherry for now ...no stylii at moment as Jamie is sending me a coupke of his to test against my shibata. also have an Acutex which is in its tube unused. still got the shimiko shell as the winner never came back to the site... its a tad heavy for the 3009 tbh unless i got an extra heavier weight made. might just sell it as its nigh on brand new.
yes 12 is a lot but not too many...you can never have too many good uns..its money in the bank:eyebrows:

struth
05-04-2015, 12:03
Finally put the Akai tape deck back together ..sounding mighty good and looks the berries too[emoji39]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/04/05/423b6d11108e0a4db0e15c86acb534f1.jpg

hermit
05-04-2015, 12:41
That Akai is in timewarp condition. Just lovely.

struth
05-04-2015, 12:45
That Akai is in timewarp condition. Just lovely.

Tbh Paul I dont really use it now but thought id get it running again for old times sake. it has been sitting idle for a while. its in lovely condition and would give fancier ones a run for their money..as you say it really looks the part. weighs a ton too!

Macca
05-04-2015, 15:01
Great looking tape deck. My uncle had one of those but lower down the range.

Wish I could justify a tape deck but gave all my tapes away years ago.

Gazjam
05-04-2015, 15:19
Finally put the Akai tape deck back together ..sounding mighty good and looks the berries too[emoji39]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/04/05/423b6d11108e0a4db0e15c86acb534f1.jpg

that's a bit spesch...

struth
05-04-2015, 20:28
Thanks all. It is sounding rather good actually.

struth
06-04-2015, 13:42
Just been doing direct comparisons between 4 carts as i have a new one coming and need to reduce by one. denon dl 110. dl160. ort vms 20mk2. at95e with shibata stylus.

playing the same 3 tracks each. 2 from diana krall and one from ella and louis.

winner by a distance was the at/shibata combo...just has more of everything except noise which it has less... it also tracks best at my decks preferred weight of 2 grams.

2nd by a head (i admit the headshell here is better than no 3) was the Dl160 which had slightly better tracking and an airier feel.

3rd was the Denon dl110 which is really a super cart for the money and have to say if it were on the bkackwood or carbon shell may have been closer. a slighly noisier tracking drops it here.

last i felt was the vms 20. was on the poorest shell of three but was unable to track it on my system at its1 to 1.2 gm recom... found it to have plenty output and a superb tone. alas as it was having to track a little heavy noise was higher.
I admit its not a perfect test due to differences in shells but the 3 top shell are all very good in their own right and some suit some carts better.

for the record at95 was on yamamoto carbon. the 160 on yamamoto blackwood. 110 on cherrywood.

so by my reckoning the vms has to go. pity as it has just arrived.

first prize
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/04/06/cef42454a0f794a1aa0ddbff3fd799b8.jpg



second prize.
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/04/06/c57b9992db1a63dd66011fdadd18495b.jpg

struth
07-04-2015, 16:02
BOING!

struth
07-04-2015, 16:10
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/04/07/d3056fca6666b38c50e6b2821a400a8d.jpg

Nice box[emoji6]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/04/07/83eff4ca116df11279580b98bd4de506.jpg

Hello

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/04/07/f15fe71c622600c75b7a150e72072cf3.jpg

Springs

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/04/07/4a519b7f69f3a013aca824e5c904cae4.jpg

Boing Boing! !

It's springy man

DSJR
07-04-2015, 16:28
DOUBLE SPRINGS? Make sure the SME exit lead is well dressed, as they're very stiff......!

The VMS20 was getting rather past it back in the mid 70's in all honesty, sounding muddy all too easily, so I'm not surprised it didn't fare so well. Modern Ortofons are rather different as I'm sure you know :)

The DL110 and 160 were supposed to sound all but identical at the time, with a slight preference by HFC (Messenger I think, can't remember) for the 110 I seem to recall. The 110 does like a low mass arm it seems and an old friend and poster here has just bought one, using it in a Grace 707 on a refurbed 1980's vintage LP12. It needed a few hours use first from new, but he's thrilled with it in this combination.

walpurgis
07-04-2015, 16:39
Not my experience with the Denons Dave, having had a few of each. The DL-160 is noticeably more refined than the 110 and much quieter on surface noise. In fact it's possibly the quietest cart I've come across when it comes to clicks & crackles. It has a nice ambience to it too. The DL-110 is fun, but a bit too exuberant for my tastes and has a seemingly less informative and extended bottom end.

struth
07-04-2015, 16:53
DOUBLE SPRINGS? Make sure the SME exit lead is well dressed, as they're very stiff......!

The VMS20 was getting rather past it back in the mid 70's in all honesty, sounding muddy all too easily, so I'm not surprised it didn't fare so well. Modern Ortofons are rather different as I'm sure you know :)

The DL110 and 160 were supposed to sound all but identical at the time, with a slight preference by HFC (Messenger I think, can't remember) for the 110 I seem to recall. The 110 does like a low mass arm it seems and an old friend and poster here has just bought one, using it in a Grace 707 on a refurbed 1980's vintage LP12. It needed a few hours use first from new, but he's thrilled with it in this combination.

My deck doesn't spring much to be fair Dave, so it shouldn't cause a problem, but if it does I will use them elsewhere. Was just trying to cause a little more isolation without making the deck too springy(I know this flies in the face of experience). I find it sounds better this way, but is more susceptible to vibration, and one of the reasons it doesn't like super low tracking weights.

The vms20 mk2 sounds great actually but as It requires low tracking force it is not suitable at moment. As for the 2 denons, well I dont find a great difference between the 2, but the 160 does track better, and is slightly sweeter, for the music I usually listen to. My new one; the AT95e with the special stylus is better than them all(surprising as it is) and I have another low output cart coming to try, but as expensive as it is and highly rated, it has a job in front of it beating the trusty AT...who'd a thought a cheap cart could sound this good.

walpurgis
07-04-2015, 16:57
Boing Boing! ! It's springy man

Well it is springtime! :D

brian2957
07-04-2015, 17:16
14391 :lol:

DSJR
07-04-2015, 18:56
Re the DL110 and DL160. My personal experiences with them is as individuals and I must admit to never comparing them directly. Apparently, the 160 has slightly higher compliance and obviously the tapered cantilever must do something other than looking nice ;) I must admit to forgetting that so many magazine reviews can have a certain 'political' stance and even well established technical reviewers (I'm thinking of one in particular) had much to lose if he upset his sponsors, so used very careful language if reviewing and measuring a not-so-good product.

Grant, I should have added a smiley to my exclamation of double springing the Thorens :) My other suggestion would have been to mass load the plinth, but I've just noticed you have a decent looking base anyway :) I've still done nothing to my TD160 apart from buying a 'Super' model plinth for it. The SME fixed shell arm it came with collects dust.. I really ought to do something with it!

struth
07-04-2015, 19:47
TBH I dont know if those springs will be a good idea. I fitted them but not played anything yet. it does move a bit laterally so it may be a disaster lol. Failing this I will get an iso platform which I probably should have just went for. Hey, its all learning:) if you dont try you wont find out

struth
08-04-2015, 17:50
An update and the deck is fine with the springy feet. quite nice actually. glad it worked. not saying its the final option mind.

My new cartridge arrived..looks loverly.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/08/c496ec6dd4506be20700c9d3fea40e97.jpg


http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/08/62a7949be53ce6f28ce6483dfa25bb20.jpg

Gazjam
08-04-2015, 18:26
Hows she sound Grant?

struth
08-04-2015, 18:46
Hows she sound Grant?

Not got it on yet Gary. awaiting a headshell a coming. shouldn't be long. Hoping the firebottle has enough gain...should be ok :fingerscrossed:

struth
09-04-2015, 13:11
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/09/866cbbc5a2927ba931195b231e89cd92.jpg

The Oyaide carbon fibre headshell landed this morning and has been mated with the mc25fl. A total of 23gms so really too heavy for the 3009. I have the heavy balance weight(110gm) fitted but needed a bit more. a dollop of blu tack was added to the rear end(20/25gm).

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/09/83113d46902192d92713dc9bad1441fb.jpg

It now floats ...just, and vtf set to 2gms. azimuth spot on and away we go.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/09/c666d3f87bb07f90d5753845158ed05b.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/09/3101058576abf2608cb324118dd652c0.jpg

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/09/e55b62e8385ffcea89abe0bee6153106.jpg

Sound is again an improvement on the shibata at95. Surprisingly not a huge one which shows how good the shibata is but definitely better across the board. Soundstage is bigger. Bass tighter. Highs cleaner and higher. Tracking better too.
Playing through the firebottle set on the high gain and load plugs in...100r, and 1nf. It has lots of gain and no hum. This means I don't need a sut ..phew!.

Now, where's the other tt going :eek:

walpurgis
09-04-2015, 14:53
Nice one Grant. I'd still be tempted to try it with a good SUT, just to see if there's a benefit. I'm surprised you find the AT-95 sounds that close. I'd expect the MC25FL to well and truly thrash it! You've got an MC there that borders on SPU territory. :)

struth
09-04-2015, 15:06
Nice one Grant. I'd still be tempted to try it with a good SUT, just to see if there's a benefit. I'm surprised you find the AT-95 sounds that close. I'd expect the MC25FL to well and truly thrash it! You've got an MC there that borders on SPU territory. :)

Yes I might try a Sut at some stage to see if it improves again.. will have to wait for a wee whiles i think. As for thrashing the at95. I wouldnt say it does that. but it is more refined yet can stonk along at same time. as you say its one of the best they made and as its price point was not making them enough money they typically stopped making it. reckon if theyystill made it even with a more premium price it would sell well.

Marco will love the spu bit:eyebrows:

Marco
09-04-2015, 21:16
Sure, the MC25FL shares some genes with the SPU, and thus some of its sonic characteristics :)

Marco.

struth
09-04-2015, 21:53
Sure, the MC25FL shares some genes with the SPU, and thus some of its sonic characteristics :)

Marco.

What you think of the combo Marco?

struth
10-04-2015, 09:57
More listening tests this morning as my neighbour is out and can turn it up without feeling guilty. I will upgrade the jump from a bit better to a fair bit better :eyebrows: calafornia dreaming was entrancing. no sibilance at all. tracks very well too. depth of sound is awesome at times.

struth
12-04-2015, 09:43
A picture of the tidy magnetic weight I fitted to the arm weight kindly donated by Nathan

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/12/2f4c7efbced26e16e21f050012fa179b.jpg

walpurgis
12-04-2015, 09:45
That looks pretty neat.

struth
12-04-2015, 10:31
That looks pretty neat.

yes it is int it ;) looks like it was made for it...supaa!

nuff
12-04-2015, 10:54
A picture of the tidy magnetic weight I fitted to the arm weight kindly donated by Nathan

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/12/2f4c7efbced26e16e21f050012fa179b.jpg

Looking good Grant! Glad to help you out mate.

struth
14-04-2015, 11:13
:cool: Nathan.

...the Theta Timebase has put in an appearance and has been mated currently with the async1 and A Alchemy ..very nice it sounds too.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/14/a061a704874ff7332bee23609e6fa4bd.jpg

I intend running it through the monarchy eventually but will need to find a decent toslink cable