View Full Version : Tonearms - best bang for buck
After the recent discussion on platters - my last upgrade, and the law of diminishing returns, I was interested in which tonearm is best suited to the technics.
My budget is around £750 (including arm board).
Initially I will be using a MM cartridge, so I would appreciate the benefit of people's experience.
Ali Tait
29-10-2013, 07:50
Jelco seems to be the SPPV option, from what folk have said, they work well on the Techie.
Jelco with oyaide carbon fibre headshell well within your budget
Clive197
29-10-2013, 08:47
Origin Live Silver Arm and Origin Live Arm Base Plate come to £757.00. Had mine for 5 months now and it's staying..... Until I upgrade it to a Origin Live Illustrious arm in the next couple of years.
Best value has to be the Jelco, with wooden armboard, alternative exit lead and custom collar/base. Haven't tried the fancy shell but take it from those that have that it's good.
Rega arms don't seem to work best on the Techie, especially with metal mounting plates used. I wonder what one would do with a wooden board instead?
Last one would have to be used, but the neglected (cachet?) SME M2 tonearm might be well worth a look. The detachable shell may break up tonearm resonances and should be fine for most except SPUs and suchlike. Those with open minds seem to respect it, despite it lacking the cachet and cost of the series IV and V,
Oldpinkman
29-10-2013, 10:22
Oh poo, this is wearing me out. What I want to say is "if I were you I would make sure you put xxx on your audition list" on the basis that you trot out to one or more dealers to listen to the various arms, even if not on a technics, at least you will get some idea of the way they sound. You can discuss things like effective mass and cartridge compatibility in the abstract, but what an arm sounds like needs you to listen to it. And whilst other members, and I post genuine comments meant to help, more often than not we have only heard a few arms, and therefore can't offer any useful comparatives with others.
All that said, and acknowledging for the avoidance of any doubt that I am a mate of Arthur who is Funk Firm, I have heard an F5, Rega, Origon, FX2 and another "special" on a technics SL1200 and the F5 was a HUGE improvement on the standard technics arm. Personally, with my musical tastes and preferences, if I had a technics, and had a Funk platter, I would sell the tyres on the car and get an FX2 instead. But that is outside your budget.
So "try a Funk F5 if you get a chance" :) And Get AK to do you a carbon fibre arm board for it! :cool:
The Grand Wazoo
29-10-2013, 10:30
I'd be interested in investigating The Wand tonearm from New Zealand if I were in your position - I don't think I've seen any reference to it being tried on a Technics TT, but there are a lot of things about it that cause me to think it might be a rather good arm.
Beobloke
29-10-2013, 10:34
Personally I'd completely agree with the aforementioned Jelco, SME M2-9 and Wand, and also add the Roksan Nima and the Audio Note Arm One/II to the audition list.
Not heard the F5 yet but it does look rather funky (sorry...:D)
+1.
Another I'd add to the list is any of the Hadcocks. Unipivots work wonderfully well on the Technics, and so should be more popular than they are.
Marco.
Only word of caution with Hadcock arrms (I have the GH242 on one of my decks) is that they can be a swine to set up properly and use a crude method of bias adjustment. The little plastic electrical connectors they use are also in short supply so when the inevitable happens, you may have to re-wire the arm with a continuous run in place of the two-part wiring arrangement which in itself is an improvement anyway.
I have heard comparative auditions with lots of current arms but not on a Techy. These include my current SME309 (bought because if it's performance and value in comparison with the higher models), the Hadcock (good but expensive really and not quite in the 309 league), Newer Rega arms (to my mind the 301 is a stunning value arm which betters the older ones..I preferred it to my older RB600). The Clearaudio Satisfy I also liked. As Richard says, you really need to get out and listen to different set-ups to get a flavour for the arms and to find out more about their compatibility with your deck and cartridge choices.
chris@panteg
29-10-2013, 11:43
I used a Nima on a Radius 5 , excellent little arm but I hated using it ! Unipivots not for me .
Been using a 309 for over three years now , And I have to be honest , I have just recently found the sweet spot so to speak , I'm just not very good at this :scratch: But its sounding really rather good at the moment with the AT33EV , just played Shades by JJ Cale and its the best I've ever heard it in any system I've owned .
Considering one of my previous decks was a Voyd .5 , I'm finding it hard to believe but ... there are a few variables , one of which is I've improved my electrics , new board with better earthing and so on , also the Diablo is far superior to the modest phono stage in my old Concordant pre , I just want to leave it alone now , Don't know if the 309 is particularly good value in the great scheme of things ? Perhaps compared to the V maybe , but its staying put in my 1210 for some time to come .
Andrew B
29-10-2013, 13:31
I'd be interested in investigating The Wand tonearm from New Zealand if I were in your position - I don't think I've seen any reference to it being tried on a Technics TT, but there are a lot of things about it that cause me to think it might be a rather good arm.
I fancy trying one of these too. They look amazing and the guys aren't exactly milking it in terms of price. I use an OL Silver 2 and I love the thing, although I've never heard it on a Technics. Good luck whatever you decide
nickbaba
29-10-2013, 18:32
+1 on the Jelco arm. Use it with an AMC magnesium headshell and very happy with it.
I was asking advice on this recently from someone in the trade who knows his stuff and his opinion was that swapping the stock arm for the jelco was not worth the effort. He did suggest an arm that cost about a grand but I'm damned if I can recall what it was now. Not very helpful I know. His actual advice to me was to get a bigger deck and fit a 12 inch arm...
I was asking advice on this recently from someone in the trade who knows his stuff and his opinion was that swapping the stock arm for the jelco was not worth the effort.
Then I'm afraid that, in this instance, he doesn't know what he's talking about.
Has this 'expert' actually tried the above, or if not, on what basis has he formed his opinion? Many others and I have upgraded from the stock arm to the Jelco and can confirm with absolute certainty that the latter represents a significant upgrade.
He did suggest an arm that cost about a grand but I'm damned if I can recall what it was now. Not very helpful I know. His actual advice to me was to get a bigger deck and fit a 12 inch arm...
My guess would be that this 'someone in the trade' isn't particularly a fan of the Technics, and so one should take his 'advice' on anything relating to that T/T with a pinch of salt!
Marco.
Thanks again to Paul (RFC) for his time and advice on this very issue today. I'm now weighing up all the options.
Then I'm afraid that, in this instance, he doesn't know what he's talking about.
Has this 'expert' actually tried the above, or if not, on what basis has he formed his opinion? Many others and I have upgraded from the stock arm to the Jelco and can confirm with absolute certainty that the Jelco represents a significant upgrade.
My guess would be that this 'someone in the trade' isn't a fan of the Technics, and so one should take his 'advice' on anything relating to that T/T with a pinch of salt!
Marco.
I know, Marco, I was just passing on what I'd been advised. You are right, I don't think he is a Techie fan.
So who is he then, Martin, and why are you choosing not to name him?
More importantly, why ask someone like that for such advice in the first place when all the help you could ever need in that respect is right here on this forum, available from those who have 'been there, done that, and bought the t-shirt'? :scratch:
Marco.
So who is he then, Martin, and why are you choosing not to name him?
More importantly, why ask someone like that for such advice in the first place when all the help you could ever need in that respect is right here on this forum, available from those who have 'been there, done that, and bought the t-shirt'? :scratch:
Marco.
Because he was there so I asked him what he thought. Academic interest, really as I have no immediate plans in that area. If you really want to know who it was I'll send you a PM, it's not a big deal.
After the recent discussion on platters - my last upgrade, and the law of diminishing returns, I was interested in which tonearm is best suited to the technics.
My budget is around £750 (including arm board).
Initially I will be using a MM cartridge, so I would appreciate the benefit of people's experience.
Get the Jelco and use the rest for a better power supply.
Because he was there so I asked him what he thought. Academic interest, really as I have no immediate plans in that area. If you really want to know who it was I'll send you a PM, it's not a big deal.
Please, I'm curious :)
Marco.
Please, I'm curious :)
Marco.
PM sent
Re the Jelco arm?
What's the deal, Jelco arm, better cable than the one that comes with the Jelco (I presume it comes with a cable?) a Shuggie collar and a better headshell than the Jelco?
What are we talking about cash wise for that lot, £500 new?
Regarding the cable, I presume that you just leave the old arm cable connected and run the new cable from the Jelco arm connector to the phono amp by-passing the stock arm's PCB?
Thanks
Tony
kininigin
29-10-2013, 21:11
Re the Jelco arm?
What's the deal, Jelco arm, better cable than the one that comes with the Jelco (I presume it comes with a cable?) a Shuggie collar and a better headshell than the Jelco?
What are we talking about cash wise for that lot, £500 new?
Regarding the cable, I presume that you just leave the old arm cable connected and run the new cable from the Jelco arm connector to the phono amp by-passing the stock arm's PCB?
Thanks
Tony
If you shop around the jelco can be had for between £300-400! It doesn't come with a cable as standard! A shuggie collor is a must in my opinion,and others i would guess! About £50 for that. You would need an arm plate as well which can be had for about £50+.The jelco headshell would be fine in my opinion but you can get better at a cost of course! You would take out the whole technics tonearm assembley to fit a new arm,there would be no old cable/pcb to deal with!!
So all in all,depending on what tonearm cable you went for about £500 or so is what you are looking at!
Get the Jelco and use the rest for a better power supply.
I already have a better power supply coming.
I hope it's good, as you have supplied it. :ner:
I was looking at the Jelco, or something along the lines of he Origin Live Silver.
If I am honest, aesthetically, the wand does nothing for me. It may sound awesome, but I don't think I can live with it.
Thanks Darren:cool:
BTW, is there any point in replacing the stock arm if your *only* using a MM cart?
Oldpinkman
29-10-2013, 21:54
Thanks Darren:cool:
BTW, is there any point in replacing the stock arm if your *only* using a MM cart?
Whilst only using a goldring 1022 I heard huge differences between the 3 arms I was playing with. Whilst some mc cartridges require certain arm characteristics, any arm, with any cartridge affects the sound
kininigin
29-10-2013, 22:51
Thanks Darren:cool:
BTW, is there any point in replacing the stock arm if your *only* using a MM cart?
That would depend on the cart being used i guess! But if it's a high quality MM cart then i would say it can only benefit (providing they are a good match of course!) I'm not really experienced to offer any more than that,as i have very limited knowledge in such matters!
What i will say is when going from a Nagaoka MP-11 and Shure SC35C on a standard technics arm,to the same carts on a Jelco,i was happy that i had bought the jelco!!
If you can maybe find someone who has a technics/jelco arm nearby that is willing to let you try whatever cart you have on their deck,i think you would be able to answer that yourself! It's all very subjective,so unless you are willing to take a punt,that would be what i would suggest you try and do :)
Whilst only using a goldring 1022 I heard huge differences between the 3 arms I was playing with. Whilst some mc cartridges require certain arm characteristics, any arm, with any cartridge affects the sound
God, you would say that Richard, the wife will go mad:eyebrows:
Oldpinkman
30-10-2013, 08:35
Just bear in mind there are other arms than jelco - although you could be forgiven for thinking otherwise at times. Take a peek at the techie platter thread if you don't believe me. That arm was the one I had borrowed when my dad wanted to stay in listening to the bach at the barbeque. And it had a 1022 in it at the time. (Pt & pip too, but even so - that arm!) :)
That would depend on the cart being used i guess! But if it's a high quality MM cart then i would say it can only benefit (providing they are a good match of course!) I'm not really experienced to offer any more than that,as i have very limited knowledge in such matters!
What i will say is when going from a Nagaoka MP-11 and Shure SC35C on a standard technics arm,to the same carts on a Jelco,i was happy that i had bought the jelco!!
If you can maybe find someone who has a technics/jelco arm nearby that is willing to let you try whatever cart you have on their deck,i think you would be able to answer that yourself! It's all very subjective,so unless you are willing to take a punt,that would be what i would suggest you try and do :)
Thanks Darren, I nearly pulled the trigger on your Jelco & cable, wish I had now:doh:
Just bear in mind there are other arms than jelco - although you could be forgiven for thinking otherwise at times. Take a peek at the techie platter thread if you don't believe me. That arm was the one I had borrowed when my dad wanted to stay in listening to the bach at the barbeque. And it had a 1022 in it at the time. (Pt & pip too, but even so - that arm!) :)
Linky?:cool:
Rare Bird
30-10-2013, 09:03
Why do most people always automatically go for new production pick-up arms! & secondly why do they follow the flock?
Hi Andre,
I'll answer the first bit (in my case anyway), as the second bit doesn't apply. I follow no-one; others sometimes follow me... ;)
The reason I will generally always go for new tonearms is because buying used ones (particularly the vintage variety) can be a bit of a lottery, as no matter superficially how good a condition a tonearm looks to be in, the most important bits (the bearings) could be totally shagged, potentially leaving one with an expensive ornament, if the item is beyond repair.
Therefore I simply won't take the chance. Trust me, I'd LOVE to own an FR-64S, instead of (or along with) my Ortofon RS-212D, for example, as potentially I think that the FR could sound even better, but unless a seller would allow me to try one out on my T/T, where I could assess it for a period of time first, prior to purchase (and hell would likely freeze over first), then I simply wouldn't take the risk, especially considering how much such a tonearm would likely cost me in the first place!
I operate exactly the same policy with MC cartridges, unless I know the seller personally and can trust them as to how many hours use the cartridge they're selling has had :)
Marco.
Used fixed headshell arms like Ittoks and Zetas (from personal experience) can be a used nightmare, as headshells can be 'knurdled' by inexperienced cartridge fitters, bearings can be damaged and the screws that hold most Ittoks together can be loosened etc etc.. The good thing currently is that Zetas can be readily serviced by Moth Marketing's Mike Harris and Johnnie at Audio Origami is well experienced with Linn's arms, amongst many others from all manner of makers (sorry if I was once critical of Rega tonearm service Johnnie - maybe it was their one-time po faced attitude that got to me where the RB300 series in particular was concerned).
Why do most people always automatically go for new production pick-up arms! & secondly why do they follow the flock?
Because its easier than trawling for used
Because they need to be told what to buy (generally)
Oldpinkman
30-10-2013, 10:28
Linky?:cool:
I should be getting some flak for this shameless funk promotion. But it does give me a chance to tell a tale I have been bottling up for ages. I see Mr K has been plotting and scheming behind my back (this is a reflection of how unorganised I am - I have a massive backlog of work to do in Sussex, my excuse for popping in to catch up on all things Funk)
Anyway - link(s) coming. The story in brief. Way back near the beginning of when I found this place googling for a review of the (to me unheard of) F5 which had been plonked unceremoniusly on my PT, and discussing the wonder of Funk arms, DSJR discussing GL75 mods posted something to the effect of "can't your mate Arthur shove his F dot cross up a GL75 or standard technics arm". I put this to Arthur, and he said something unrepeatable in civilised company. Move on several weeks, and I ran a "guess the cartridge" competition. Arthur had picked up a NOS Sony MC from Germany and had gone through a lengthy fan dance prior to actually handing over the cash. On one of my trips there he showed it off to me, and I have told the tale of the "not quite as it seems" con he was trying, and the shock he got back.
So - said Sony cartridge was mounted on an apparantly stock SL1200 to which we subsequently fitted the new prototype Funk platter. If you have met Arthur you will know the "grin that isnt". Arthur thinks its his dead-pan face, but the twinkle in the eyes would light a runway. However, I put this down to him gloating about having picked up this Sony cartridge. Actually, he was expecting me to have another of those cognitive dissonance moments along the lines of "how can a stock Techie sound that good"
The crafty old goat had succeeded after considerable sweating and struggling in shoving his F dot cross exactly where DSJR had suggested he should. And it sounded OK. But I wasn't swooning like a teenager at a prom as he had expected. Indeed - my response was "not quite right. I don't know (or like) your system. Can we shove it on the PT (mounted at the time with that FX2(3,19.7? I lose track of his product numbering)?" We did. And the PT FX2 were buckets better in some important (for me vital) areas, albeit the Techie was still better for bass extension and stability. Two lessons to be learned. One, as I have been posting, Arthur rediscovered bouncy turntables and his original brilliant creation, and we agreed to try "project pimp PT" (and after this shameless Funk promotion Arthur - get your finger out on that one!)
Two - simple shoving F dot cross up a standard Techie wasn't the answer. But clearly the idea still appealed, as his recent website update reveals.
So - link 1 the previous thread I was referring to and the FX2
http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?28736-Alternative-platters/page9
Linky 2 - Funks website - Technics page
The FX 1200 tonearm (which I know nothing about, beyond the story told above, and which I have neither seen nor heard) is at the bottom of the page
http://www.thefunkfirm.co.uk/turntable_upgrades/SL1200_upgrade.html
That is now several pints you owe me Arthur!
:cool:
Richard, I really don't intentionally ignore the £500 Funk arm, just lack experience with it!
My comments regarding the GL75 are that the main pillar, bias and cuening bits are there already, the bearing housing usually very good and easily adjusted if necessary for minimal play (gravity loaded so maybe no issue). The funk tube appears to be of compatible diameter, so if the V spindle could be safely driven through this pipe and a suitable counterweight system made available, I'm sure this could be a useful update to a GL75 - my thoughts on the wholesale butchering that goes on with these is well catalogued, so best not repeated here.
The PT Anniversary was reviewed by Richard Black IIRC, to be as close sonically to the master as a turntable could be (a master tape was available for comparison). Just thought I'd mention it.
Oldpinkman
30-10-2013, 10:54
Richard, I really don't intentionally ignore the £500 Funk arm, just lack experience with it!
My comments regarding the GL75 are that the main pillar, bias and cuening bits are there already, the bearing housing usually very good and easily adjusted if necessary for minimal play (gravity loaded so maybe no issue). The funk tube appears to be of compatible diameter, so if the V spindle could be safely driven through this pipe and a suitable counterweight system made available, I'm sure this could be a useful update to a GL75 - my thoughts on the wholesale butchering that goes on with these is well catalogued, so best not repeated here.
The PT Anniversary was reviewed by Richard Black IIRC, to be as close sonically to the master as a turntable could be (a master tape was available for comparison). Just thought I'd mention it.
Sure. Thanks for that Dave. I wasn't having a dig - you were just part of the story. I did ask Arthur as I promised you, and caught on one of his famous "off days" he did treat me to some colourful expletives. I'll try to catch him on a good day to discuss the GL75 option for the idlers. My guess (but only my guess until AK dishes the dirt) is it is more feasible. The issues are the S arm is harder to shove things up, there is a bit more to the FX than meets the eye even allowing for the cross beam, and the S increases the length of the structural mechanism. Whilst long is good for tracking error, short is good for rigidity. Getting a tight fit (and internal tube tolerances) is also probably relevant. Which means a GL75 option might be on (although I retain my reservations about its headshell)
Once he's done my PT mods, I'll talk to him about it again. :)
What I was hoping for is a straight arm beam plus the Funk cartridge mounting, the vertical V pivot rod inserted - if possible - in the correct place at the bearing end, 'Dezmo' style V blocks to replace the soft rubber ones which go off after a very few years and the rod continuing out the back with a new counterweight mounted (unless the original can be used to keep costs down). hell, even a new straight aluminium pipe, filled as necessary, would be better I suspect (Hugo was going to look into this but it's probably way down the list of priorities).
kininigin
30-10-2013, 17:38
Why do most people always automatically go for new production pick-up arms! & secondly why do they follow the flock?
Not everyone has vast years of knowledge of dfferent tonearms! Or has the time to research and find vintage arms,that may or may not need servicing/fixing! For me,i wanted a known quantity which is good value for money,is easy to use and works well with my chosen cart! The Jelco offers that and is a great arm imo.Lots of people have the same equipment,doesn't mean you are following the flock!! I personally don't chose equipment that is different to everyones else's just for the sake of it! If it's a great item,it's a great item! :)
kininigin
30-10-2013, 17:47
Thanks Darren, I nearly pulled the trigger on your Jelco & cable, wish I had now:doh:
You snooze,you lose :lol: I still have the tonearm cable but i'm keeping that now,just need an arm to go with it!!
337alant
30-10-2013, 17:55
What about the audiomods rega arm kit well in budget, an excellent arm at a bargain price
http://www.audiomods.co.uk/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/69508926@N05/10560250185/in/photostream/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/69508926@N05/10560535873/in/photostream/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/69508926@N05/10560288115/in/photostream/
Alan
RobbieGong
30-10-2013, 22:34
Best bang for buck?!! Ok, I think my Micro Seiki MA 202 definately falls into that category. £260 delivered ! The MA 202 is a top arm and graced many a high end Micro Seiki turntable. Very nicely made and with on the fly VTA :) Do your homework like I did, ask the seller questions re: condition, pics etc. Mine was literally spotless and is a BIG improvement over the stock techie arm - I'm very happy with it. If you are patient you'll find a lovely top order vintage that should bring a smile to your face as well as leave funds over towards other upgrade(s) I call it shopping clever ! ;) Here's the MA 202 mounted on an ebony armboard coupled with my beloved 2M Black :D
Best bang for buck?!! Ok, I think my Micro Seiki MA 202 definately falls into that category. £260 delivered ! The MA 202 is a top arm and graced many a high end Micro Seiki turntable. Very nicely made and with on the fly VTA :) Do your homework like I did, ask the seller questions re: condition, pics etc. Mine was literally spotless and is a BIG improvement over the stock techie arm - I'm very happy with it. If you are patient you'll find a lovely top order vintage that should bring a smile to your face as well as leave funds over towards other upgrade(s) I call it shopping clever ! ;) Here's the MA 202 mounted on an ebony armboard coupled with my beloved 2M Black :D
Hi Robert,
would this arm fit a Technics SL-1200 mk2?
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Micro-seiki-MA-303-tonearm-VG-condition-for-almost-cartridge-/121193002372?pt=US_Record_Player_Turntable_Parts&hash=item1c37aa7584
RobbieGong
30-10-2013, 23:07
Hi Robert,
would this arm fit a Technics SL-1200 mk2?
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Micro-seiki-MA-303-tonearm-VG-condition-for-almost-cartridge-/121193002372?pt=US_Record_Player_Turntable_Parts&hash=item1c37aa7584
Hi Tony, I'd say most definately - Its effective length for mounting is 222mm, the MA 202 is 237 mm. Check VinylEngine for more info. Dont know that particular arm but Micro Seiki did some top arms then - MA 202, MA 505, MA 701, MA 707, so the MA 303 is likely another goodie too. Maybe one of the members could add.....
Hi Tony, I'd say most definately - Its effective length for mounting is 222mm, the MA 202 is 237 mm. Check VinylEngine for more info. Dont know that particular arm but Micro Seiki did some top arms then - MA 202, MA 505, MA 701, MA 707, so the MA 303 is likely another goodie too. Maybe one of the members could add.....
Thanks Robert, did you find the armboard easy to come by?
I notice that the arm on e-bay has a pcb, I think, I would prefer one with a Din plug but don't suppose it will be difficult to fit one to the arm cable.
Did your arm come with a din plug or the PCB arrangement?
RobbieGong
31-10-2013, 23:19
Thanks Robert, did you find the armboard easy to come by?
I notice that the arm on e-bay has a pcb, I think, I would prefer one with a Din plug but don't suppose it will be difficult to fit one to the arm cable.
Did your arm come with a din plug or the PCB arrangement?
Hi Tony, My arm came with a din plug, (cant tell by the thin wire in the ebay picture, what type of connection that arm has). I'd definately ask the seller. Incidently he's the guy I bought mine from a while back and he's a straight guy who's been doing the vintage arms a long time from out of Japan.
With regards to the armboard I came across it here. It is made and fitted by a member - Speedy Steve. After following his thread and the posts regarding the making and fitting of the ebony armboard I knew it was the one for me. Marco and Martin T where one of the first to go that root and review - It's a lovely 'natural' thing. Speedy Steve stopped doing them for a while but may well have started making and fitting them again - give him a shout. There's a link to the ebony armboard in Techiepedia which I've attached here: http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?t=14609
Blessings - Rob
Hi Tony, My arm came with a din plug, (cant tell by the thin wire in the ebay picture, what type of connection that arm has). I'd definately ask the seller. Incidently he's the guy I bought mine from a while back and he's a straight guy who's been doing the vintage arms a long time from out of Japan.
With regards to the armboard I came across it here. It is made and fitted by a member - Speedy Steve. After following his thread and the posts regarding the making and fitting of the ebony armboard I knew it was the one for me. Marco and Martin T where one of the first to go that root and review - It's a lovely 'natural' thing. Speedy Steve stopped doing them for a while but may well have started making and fitting them again - give him a shout. There's a link to the ebony armboard in Techiepedia which I've attached here: http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?t=14609
Blessings - Rob
Thanks Rob, BTW there's three of those tonearms on ebay at the minute one of them is practically NOS and is on sale by 2juki for about $800 or thereabouts and comes with everything inc a din connector on the arm, one of the other arms is slightly cheaper than the one I linked to and has a Din connecter and the one I linked to has a PCB which you have to solder the arm cable wiring to.
BTW, hate to be vulgar Rob but what's the ball park price for the ebony arm board?
Regards
Tony
RobbieGong
01-11-2013, 00:03
Thanks Rob, BTW there's three of those tonearms on ebay at the minute one of them is practically NOS and is on sale by 2juki for about $800 or thereabouts and comes with everything inc a din connector on the arm, one of the other arms is slightly cheaper than the one I linked to and has a Din connecter and the one I linked to has a PCB which you have to solder the arm cable wiring to.
BTW, hate to be vulgar Rob but what's the ball park price for the ebony arm board?
Regards
Tony
Lol ! No worries Tony, I sincerely can not remember the exact amount to be totally honest but I'm sure no more than £70 / £80 ? or so, supplied, fitted and arm mounted - all in. Shout Steve a pm.
Lol ! No worries Tony, I sincerely can not remember the exact amount to be totally honest but I'm sure no more than £70 / £80 ? or so, supplied, fitted and arm mounted - all in. Shout Steve a pm.
Thanks Rob, will do.
That seller has some really nice stuff, I think:eyebrows:
http://stores.ebay.co.uk/KenAnalog/_i.html?rt=nc&_sid=946091031&_trksid=p4634.c0.m14.l1581&_pgn=1
Hi Robert, I took your advice mate and bought a Micro Seiki MA-202 tonearm ans have ordered an ebony armboard from speedy Steve.
Paid a bit more for the arm than I wanted to but there's not many for sale however there are OEM arms for sale which have been stripped from old TTs I could have bought one of those for about $100 less but didn't want to take a chance on one.
The buyer I bought from seems so have been selling these sort of things for a long time and has excellent feedback.
Did you have the arm re-wired Robert and did you replace the phono lead with a new one?
Tony
http://http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/251371249009?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649 (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/251371249009?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649)
RobbieGong
09-11-2013, 22:00
Hi Tony, apologies for the delay - It's my birthday on Monday so been out with my Mrs and daughters eating Pizza Express, warm chocolate fudge cake with icecream washed down with a bottle of Prosecco - yum !! Had to be done :eyebrows:
Congratulations on achieving excactly what you asked in your thread title. The vintage MA 202 is definatley big bang for buck and a top tonearm. I'm very happy indeed with mine. Even better that it suits the techie to a T and looks the biz and has on the fly vta- a very nice touch IMHO. I didnt see the need to re-wire the arm but did feel that it would be good to go for a better tonearm cable. I have the same Yannis tonearm cable as Marco, not cheap but pure silver double shielded and punches way above cables costing plenty more, read Marco's review - not to mention Yannis is a top bloke. I'd also look at some nice headshell leads, there's plenty to choose from out there. What headshell and cart will you be using ?
Hi Rob, thanks for the reply and happy birthday when it comes:cool:
Headshell will likely be the one that comes with the tonearm, I've got two Technics headshells which I currently use on the stock arm so presumably I could use those or I might get one of those that Shuggie recommends for the Jelco arm (presume those fit the MS arm too).
Cart is a SAE1000LT HOMC which I've had since the summer, bought from a fellow forum member for a very good price NOS, I've probably put about 200 hours on it since buying it so would be quite happy to try something else, definitely MM though but I have an Arkless modded phono stage which can be converted to MC easily enough by using plugs and either cutting a link or soldering a link inside the amp.
Think I'll just get the arm set up and then decide on the next move re tonearm cable and possible re-wire, can't wait to get the arm and arm board though.
BTW Rob, Speedy Steve needs an overhead photo of your arm and arm board so that he can see the position of the arm rest in order to drill a hole on my armboard in the same place and also he needs the info to determine the height the arm board base needs to be so maybe you could send him some photos and the info or post the photos and info here?
Thanks
Tony
RobbieGong
13-11-2013, 21:31
Hi Rob, thanks for the reply and happy birthday when it comes:cool:
Headshell will likely be the one that comes with the tonearm, I've got two Technics headshells which I currently use on the stock arm so presumably I could use those or I might get one of those that Shuggie recommends for the Jelco arm (presume those fit the MS arm too).
Cart is a SAE1000LT HOMC which I've had since the summer, bought from a fellow forum member for a very good price NOS, I've probably put about 200 hours on it since buying it so would be quite happy to try something else, definitely MM though but I have an Arkless modded phono stage which can be converted to MC easily enough by using plugs and either cutting a link or soldering a link inside the amp.
Think I'll just get the arm set up and then decide on the next move re tonearm cable and possible re-wire, can't wait to get the arm and arm board though.
BTW Rob, Speedy Steve needs an overhead photo of your arm and arm board so that he can see the position of the arm rest in order to drill a hole on my armboard in the same place and also he needs the info to determine the height the arm board base needs to be so maybe you could send him some photos and the info or post the photos and info here?
Thanks
Tony
Hi Tony Apologies for the delay, It's been mad ! Yes, I see you have the complete arm including the original matching headshell - nice. Mine came with all but the original headshell. I've attahced three shots I took tonight which should hopefully assist Steve in determining where he placed the arm rest etc. I really like where he placed it on mine, it looks good, works perfectly well and meant he didnt have to dig into the top of my beloved techie :)
Blessings
Rob
Hi Tony Apologies for the delay, It's been mad ! Yes, I see you have the complete arm including the original matching headshell - nice. Mine came with all but the original headshell. I've attahced three shots I took tonight which should hopefully assist Steve in determining where he placed the arm rest etc. I really like where he placed it on mine, it looks good, works perfectly well and meant he didnt have to dig into the top of my beloved techie :)
Blessings
Rob
Thanks Rob, very helpful mate.
Hate to be a pest but can you give us an idea of the height of the tonearm base Rob?
Thanks
Tony
Magna Audio
13-11-2013, 23:26
Hi Tony Apologies for the delay, It's been mad ! Yes, I see you have the complete arm including the original matching headshell - nice. Mine came with all but the original headshell. I've attahced three shots I took tonight which should hopefully assist Steve in determining where he placed the arm rest etc. I really like where he placed it on mine, it looks good, works perfectly well and meant he didnt have to dig into the top of my beloved techie :)
Blessings
Rob
That's cool Thanks. I'll be able to position it from the photos. The height of the armboard mounting face was about 8mm below the deck height if I remember correctly.
Could you confirm that? Oops sorry only saw Tony's post after asking as well...
Regards,
Steve
Is a Mk2 Origin Live Encounter a good match for an SL1200?
Is a Mk2 Origin Live Encounter a good match for an SL1200?
Well the OL Silver is very well regarded on here so I would imagine the Encounter will be just as good if not better.
RobbieGong
16-11-2013, 12:00
That's cool Thanks. I'll be able to position it from the photos. The height of the armboard mounting face was about 8mm below the deck height if I remember correctly.
Could you confirm that?Oops sorry only saw Tony's post after asking as well...
Regards,
Steve
Hi Steve, Do you mean the depth of the ebony armboard ? How do I tell how deep it is ? Not sure what I'm confirming - sorry if I'm being a numpty ! :scratch:
Hi Steve, Do you mean the depth of the ebony armboard ? How do I tell how deep it is ? Not sure what I'm confirming - sorry if I'm being a numpty ! :scratch:
Hi Rob, think Steve wants to know how much the armboard is below the surface of the deck.
I presume you would put a straight edge across the deck at the arm board then measure the height from the armboard mounting face to the underside of the straight edge, I think the mounting face will be where the screws are round the edge of the armboard.
I'm sure Steve will be along shortly to comfirm that I am correct or that I'm talking complete nonesense:D
Tony
Magna Audio
22-11-2013, 15:29
Hi,
Sorry missed these last ones.
Yes it would the depth I was interested in. From the top of the deck plinth to where the arm sits on the armboard.
It's ok though. I worked it out. The problem would come if it was not deep enough, so I made sure it will be ok.
Regards,
Steve
Hi Rob, think Steve wants to know how much the armboard is below the surface of the deck.
I presume you would put a straight edge across the deck at the arm board then measure the height from the armboard mounting face to the underside of the straight edge, I think the mounting face will be where the screws are round the edge of the armboard.
I'm sure Steve will be along shortly to comfirm that I am correct or that I'm talking complete nonesense:D
Tony
Having just fitted my Audio Origami RB251 on mt Technics using one of the cheapest arm boards I could find (from sound supports) and being pleasantly surprised with the results, can anybody describe/tell me what benefit I would get from one of the lovely looking wooden arm boards from Speedy Steve?
One idea Imwould want to incorporate if I went this way would be an "on the fly" VTA adjuster, such as the Michell 3 point adjuster made specifically for Michell decks. I don't really know if this is possible, and I am just thinking out loud.
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