View Full Version : Magna Audio News & Product Updates
Magna Audio
02-12-2013, 14:04
I have created a modest website that demonstrates what I offer.
There are 3 main categories:
Tannoy GRF-R style cabinets (other types also possible)
Several pink fishers, wammers and AoS members have my GRF-R cabs.
Tonearm boards - Bespoke ebony a speciality. These have proved very popular for Technics SL-1200 series of decks as well as other shapes and sizes.
Famous from the Analogue Art sticky thread:)
Counterweights and arm fittings (Brass and Copper tungsten)
Famous from the Analogue Art sticky thread:)
Please take a look at my website for more info.
http://fosworld.wix.com/magna-audio
I am also happy to discuss other projects. This could be from the small to the very large, e.g. special cable requirement to bespoke horn speakers systems.
I'll be updating the website from time to time as new products and services come on-line, so please keep a lookout.
Fantastic stuff, Steve. Good luck with your new venture - I wish you the best of success! :)
Marco.
Spectral Morn
02-12-2013, 19:51
Nice simple but effective website. I wish you all the best Steve :cool:
Regards Neil
The Grand Wazoo
02-12-2013, 19:54
Nice Steve - good luck with it.
The Black Adder
02-12-2013, 20:31
Definitely... Wish you all the best, Steve. :)
Magna Audio
03-12-2013, 13:17
Thanks chaps. Great to have your support and thanks for the website feedback Neil:)
It even works on mobiles ok too.
Magna Audio
04-12-2013, 18:31
Also added a tapped horns to the line up and for anyone interested (mad enough / serious enough about the whole range of frequencies that are out there), as well as a horn system building service.
- Tapped horn sub bass solutions. Get down to a real 20Hz +/- 0dB with birch ply 15" LF driver tapped horns. 12" LF driver version also possible.
Advice and setup also available.
- Bespoke horn speaker systems. A service of sourcing drivers, build, commissioning and installation of multi-way horn speaker systems is offered.
For details and pricing please click link below
http://fosworld.wix.com/magna-audio
Magna Audio
06-12-2013, 18:33
Custom tonearm board in Australian hardwood and new metal lathe:)
Here is a work in progress board for SL-1210 but this one is in customer supplied Australian hardwood.
Pretty heavy/dense and close grained. Should polish up well.
Mid cut
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170930/b3b5e942ab1d0d8090a438cd74af1357.jpg
Faced off
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170930/10a7afb53ef6352b91cb18acd3ff97b9.jpg
Dished to suit Jelco
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170930/38fe6078597236ff35efb189302beaa6.jpg
Taken on my phone so pretty poor quality.
There's a slight fissure in one part but that will be taken care of by the moon shaped platter cutout;)
I'll take some proper pics on deck when finished.
BTW, I've bought myself a new (secondhand nearly new) Warco precision super mini metal lathe - picking it up tomorrow. Counterweights & pulleys etc will be much easier to make with this baby.
To be continued...
See
Magna Audio
10-12-2013, 15:45
Update to the Australian hardwood board that was in progress above.
This one is for Bernie / AoS Canetoad.
On my new lathe whilst polishing
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170930/bc647a685d0418231359f82e7dc24fd8.jpg
Oh yeah, this lathe spins up to 2500rpm and that really gets a shine on!
On test mule deck (bit scabbly but it never leaves the workshop;)). Bolts shown are my own test ones - cap headed Stainless will probably be bolts of choice.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170930/cb58210dd0d57d646b9bcd6a080d8095.jpg
Jelco arm hole and mounting holes drilled.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170930/f45370e742a93794366cf2c9e7044a1a.jpg
Armboard ready for shipping once it has final waxing / polish.
Magna Audio
12-12-2013, 23:50
Here's a project of Tonearm board / arm rewire and fettle I've just done.
Replacing a thin piece of aluminium on a Cranfield Rock deck with a more substantial ebony armboard.
I also rewired the Alphason HR100s arm with Litz silver tonearm wire, fitted a Cardas 5 pin plug (to enable future cable upgrades), and fitted a new tonearm cable he'd bought - all providing quite an upgrade I trust.
All mounted up on 6mm thick ebony.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/2399a202af0cf8995d3e8651c5192ced.jpg
(I decided a block looked a bit boring so put the bevelled edge on to spice it up a bit)
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/79daf42d37f9285f4dbaa88416212e7d.jpg
(I'd run out of M5 black domed or caphead bolts to the ones shown are just for test mounting)
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/906d769e9b5bbef4e983f6efcbc24a4d.jpg
Here's the old somewhat abused plate that the ebony replaced.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/a65d0c0f2a452ea6830569727c38fa92.jpg
The arm re-wire
1st to drill the arm base and tapp it to receive the Cardas 5 pin tonearm cable plug.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/23294f7249d8c7509b5f0171f44933e6.jpg
Silver Litz wire fitted
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/20bcb9775617929c0412100801c20704.jpg
Cardas plug located
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/bd70df7e12abebf9388dfa68523e6ecd.jpg
Buzz tested and colour coded, ready to go.
I also had to re-thread the bias weight micro fishing line too;)
Be interesting to hear what difference all these changes make.
Magna Audio
24-12-2013, 09:14
Happy Christmas to all.
Thanks for all your support and custom.
I look forward to interesting projects in the new year.
Have a great Christmas.
Magna Audio
30-01-2014, 16:07
I've been busy
- Custom 12" tonearm adaption
- Mystery collet / spacers in birch ply as a tester and to be more in an exotic hardwood
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/cf4272f31c2e402eb0e20f55e5297041.jpg
I've also got a mid bass horn project underway - gonna be quite big! :)
Magna Audio
07-02-2014, 16:08
Here are the other 3 collets - They are for Turntable plinth cable exits.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/cf3879cc4ca0a080a897a3d0dfc58fd6.jpg
I have recently made a highly polished Ebony Armboard and fitting kit for an Ortofon AS-212S arm.
Here it is mounted on my test deck.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/7e6a1a4fe069872480421b4544e35873.jpg
Nice, Steve... It's amazing how it looks so black in the first pic, and so brown in the second one! If I popped down sometime, would you be able to highly polish my armboard like that? :)
I have recently made a highly polished Ebony Armboard and fitting kit for an Ortofon AS-212S arm...
Have you got the arm, or it is yet to be purloined? :eyebrows:
Marco.
Magna Audio
07-02-2014, 21:56
Mike has the arm. To be united with the armboard in N.Y soon.
Yes, I have polishing technology now :)
You could pop off deck and in the post to me and have it back in a few days;)
Lol - AYE RIGHT! :D
Anyway, good to know that it can be done. If I came down with the T/T, would you be able to do the job in the same day? :)
Marco.
Magna Audio
08-02-2014, 09:10
Yes, that would be no problem. It's prob about a 1 hr job all up.
Nice one, Steve - would be good to meet up again anyway... I'll give you a shout when I'm thinking of coming down :)
Marco.
Magna Audio
09-02-2014, 21:16
Sure thing - Weekday or weekend;)
Nice one, Steve - would be good to meet up again anyway... I'll give you a shout when I'm thinking of coming down :)
Marco.
montesquieu
10-02-2014, 13:10
Just a quick thanks to Steve for sorting out a 12in tonearm I bought, it was a fairly well-constructed DIY effort (as far as it went) but unfinished.
Steve fixed up an end plug for the wiring to go onto, as well as attending to the earthing, and then sorted out my arm board as well. Lovely job.
Here are the other 3 collets - They are for Turntable plinth cable exits.
http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/WP_20140203_004.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/WP_20140203_004.jpg.html)
I have recently made a highly polished Ebony Armboard and fitting kit for an Ortofon AS-212S arm.
Here it mounted on my test deck.
http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4544.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4544.jpg.html)
http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4547.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4547.jpg.html)
Steve, that looks stunning!
Magna Audio
11-02-2014, 17:48
Yes I am pleased with the polishing.
If existing owners of my ebony armboards want, I can offer a polishing service.
I could do that at low cost + p&p, and return in post same day.
Please contact me for details.
Best Regards,
Steve
Yes I am pleased with the polishing.
If existing owners of my ebony armboards want, I can offer a polishing service.
I could do that at low cost + p&p, and return in post same day.
Please contact me for details.
Best Regards,
Steve
are there sonic benefits associated with polishing then? :)
Magna Audio
12-02-2014, 08:17
No:) but some might like it though.
Magna Audio
24-02-2014, 22:00
Here are some more projects made to order that I've been completing;
This time a tonearm board for Jazzbones' Techi but in a different wood than ebony;
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/6091a6c9ff25d1072b39ad6eb23856b1.jpg
Can you guess what it is to become?
Rough face off and recessed
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/7c82e9a1d9a0405646e4a8ab67efde8c.jpg
Dished
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/bf3c04220efad1bb4956293780762f19.jpg
Fitted out for Linn arms
(in flash it looks like this - its not that dark)
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/61ff369662173a8df633fe41bdaf7f48.jpg
In warmer light like this
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/10300d936c938230884ce41653ffaa12.jpg
Still final rubbing down and polishing to go.
As for the wood. It's African Blackwood. Slightly more dense than Ebony and harder. Nice grain to it.
One more for BobC of the Wam to go under his amazing plinths
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/164d6fe1fb1ce24659f706e1d37b0b21.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/dcc20a6f7eff8eb3cefac3f8683733c7.jpg
and an ongoing bass horn project: 1.2m exponentials that will be fitted out with a 15" bass drivers.
Designed and modelled this to give optimal performance 80Hz to 400Hz. This will be part of a 5 way system.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/2b38cd9ec478fed2858acaf35bc6fd46.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/0b50d4607caacfece20e2dfe7d359f35.jpg
Magna Audio
25-02-2014, 17:09
Here is the African Blackwood armboard all finished and suitably polished.
Beautiful grain and markings to this wood.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/bdb34b33bfb2686613454108c33609d5.jpg
Magna Audio
26-02-2014, 17:30
Here's a large collet (145mm in diameter) that was a rush job for one of BobC's turntables in time for Scalford
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/06bd74f672922e9dcbfacdd864684930.jpg
Magna Audio
12-03-2014, 17:47
Here's a pic of recent pair of armboards I made for Mike in the USA.
African Blackwood on the left, Ebony on the right.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/7514c449dec9a376b6a6ef431fee49db.jpg
The armbases are for Ortofon RS-212 and AS-212 arms :wow:
Magna Audio
14-03-2014, 15:39
Thanks Yomanze.
On to counterweights...
I am now able to offer lovely 303 stainless steel counterweights. Machined to your exact requirements.
Here's a 135g one I've just made for Richard (Gromit)
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/55112d32d794cd450c21df53d385ea73.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/e99ab8c62f39bd6cb6d6713c80f94da0.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/3ebc717b8ad4a24dcf864f971fe1d91a.jpg
Please contact me by PM or the web link below if you require counterweights, tonearm boards, cabs, horns etc
Magna Audio
04-04-2014, 14:52
Here's a slightly different one; for a Fidelity Research FR64s with the superb adjustable on the fly VTA armbase.
Made from solid brass, 20mm thick and 170mm long. 2.3Kgs of brass!
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/e91c567b792f60d9546bd5dd3878ec3a.jpg
Magna Audio
07-04-2014, 11:12
Another shot
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/d2c26aee85aac2cbd655fe1492676948.jpg
and here is the actual deck they will go on (there's an FR64s in there:) )
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/52998814d52a77c7664bb309136375ae.jpg
Magna Audio
12-04-2014, 06:36
The latest African Blackwood armboard for Shuggies improved armbase. This one is for an Ortofon AS-212s.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/d924891ff9d38debf1a0727fe0ccd8cc.jpg
I can make bespoke armboards for pretty much any deck in most materials
See http://fosworld.wix.com/magna-audio
for more info
Magna Audio
15-04-2014, 06:38
Rosewood tonearm tubes - precision made as prototypes for a well known hi-end audio manufacturer.
Spigot ends for arm pivot tube / headshell attachment and a continuous taper to the headshell end. Crafted from square 200mm rosewood blanks.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/ca5b01ac8dd4ce7b4ad5b4a04df286db.jpg
Trial fitted to the intended arm pivot tube / headset today and they looked very cool.
Please contact me if you have a bespoke machining or fabrication need.
Magna Audio
16-04-2014, 11:03
Closeup of the Rosewood arm tubes
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/547244e3a039f415f7f1e8683646f99e.jpg
Magna Audio
16-04-2014, 20:45
Here are a couple of different height arm raisers in Ebony for a PL-71 arm.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/d42fc42b0b343d92f751967a3d328e1e.jpg
Magna Audio
07-05-2014, 11:33
Some new product updates:
A pair of Tractrix 550Hz 1.5" throat horns and threaded throat adapters for Vitavox S2's I've crafted.
Painted to match the customers requirement of matt grey.
Made from softwood, as is deemed to sound best for horns of this type:)
I'm happy to discuss any project requirements or ideas you might have.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/cf4ba9b60410c5de5ccb9ea9e5a7f676.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/58bd57481a6a5810b6c5a38f4d160a58.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/0c1a3a63b38c5693096dbeef4d4575c5.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/23de6ae736d81c1ca5df685af6b7267d.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/c5a479916ac4492fc809fe45253a966a.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/0f13bc77544982710b19e069c1541c04.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/5dbf297ba15691f492d694f1c1c649c8.jpg
Magna Audio
09-05-2014, 07:29
Here's 4 custom made parts for a mystery turntable prototype
3 threaded feet and 2 volume knobs to match
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/0ef2ce8eedc449378276d10fd790a08a.jpg
4 large threaded bobbins
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/e62ff58bca8e0bda082c713160a4563e.jpg
4 Rosewood turned spigots (blank end stock also shown)
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/412c3f26900dfdc6e6e15911019786d1.jpg
4 brass plugs
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/9acdb07881f6955138f7af6bd4e42008.jpg
Please contact me by PM or from my website (link below) if you have a turning or machining need.
Magna Audio
19-05-2014, 14:52
Here is a dark Ebony armboard and arm fitting - the beautiful Fidelity Research FR64x in place.
This was quite a tricked up (modified) SL-1210 with some very nice bits - bearing, platter, PSU etc. and sounded very nice.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/672bc380ec38645ea6baa37ec4181c19.jpg
Here's a re-surface job on a damaged turntable spindle bearing face.
Before
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/55761e41781ff24be1e6cafb9fa2351f.jpg
The bearing face, which sits on a ceramic ball was badly scored and required re-machining and lapping. It also had scratches and nicks on the sides. These were carefully lapped down to maintain the snug bearing fit.
Magna Audio
02-06-2014, 14:31
Here's an African Blackwood armboard fitted with the uprated Jelco arm collar.
This one has been stained to be dark similar to Ebony. Matching black domed capheaded bolts and a shortened allen key to enable arm fitting.
You may wonder the difference between African Blackwood and Ebony. Both are hard and dense. African Blackwood is not quite as dark in natural state. It is denser and harder with a tighter / almost no grain its so dense. Due to this it machines and drills very well indeed.
The ebony is slightly warmer and more rounded, the African Blackwood slightly more clinical, but there's really very little in it.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/fefc27b2f212d834ba7d1a0750f0fd96.jpg
Here it is mounted (to ensure perfect fitting) on my scruffy test SL-1200 deck.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/467be59765c55c068de7f755bd29aa59.jpg
Hi Steve if I send you an old Systemdek armboard would you be able to produce something like this for me?
Magna Audio
02-06-2014, 20:38
Hi Steve if I send you an old Systemdek armboard would you be able to produce something like this for me?
Hi,
Yes almost certainly.
I'll PM you for detail.
Regards,
Steve
Magna Audio
04-06-2014, 11:49
Here is another Jelco one bound for New Zealand this time.
Darkened African Blackwood. Supplied with fitting kit and instructions.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/517afb654f8acc7c107b69209510781c.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/e5fa8a8e129ca7c462977e967de1722f.jpg
:youtheman::youtheman::youtheman: Steve those arm boards look amazing!
Magna Audio
06-06-2014, 22:46
:youtheman::youtheman::youtheman: Steve those arm boards look amazing!
Aww, thanks:)
Magna Audio
10-06-2014, 20:52
Here's a slightly difference one.
I'm grafting a 12" Audio Technica arm on to an existing plinth / Thorens 124.
The arm had no arm lift / rest mechanism so I made a polished carrier, to which I have fitted a Jelco lift and a rest from a SL-1210.
The arm mounting block that can be seen in the pics is African Blackwood shaped to fit on the back of the plinth as a 2nd arm.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/f1074a16eceab04d80b2dc3a0c49bdf3.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/cdbefce89233bad9c472803235aae6e5.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/14f9d267a1f8ce6d613fbff1520b223e.jpg
More pics to follow once the plinth is ready - it's having a bit of a refurb and repaint and it will have a new ebony armboard and FR-24 tonearm fitted.
montesquieu
11-06-2014, 17:23
:)
Looking forward to this.
Magna Audio
18-06-2014, 17:26
Here's the conclusion of the TD-124 two tonearm fitting project I've been working on.
The Audio Technical 12" ATP12T tonearm is a beauty - the hardwood armpod puts the spindle to pivot at the perfect 242mm distance.
It's also easy to use with the arm lift and arm rest plate that I fabricated.
I've also made an ebony armboard for to fit a Fidelity Research FR24 10" tonearm to the deck.
The plinth was gloss white and as requested I've painted and lacquered it to a matt dark grey.
I then set up both arms and tested them with my SPUs - A Royal N and Silver Meister and had a listen to check all was perfect.
I also made an extra Ebony armboard blank if someone needs one:)
Here are some pics
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/0966daa6a0d2c7639dd3868afcf8616a.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/85084df124d8d62109b5406e50adb4d3.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/d0c186649292e349bb6e2fe3191233f8.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/47fb2c64ff4491e0c8e85efd45538f63.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/88bfaa6622cf0a41c7513ea0863f3b97.jpg
Keen SPU'ists will note that the AT arm really needs a heavier counterweight for SPU's - I'm not sure what cart will be used yet - Magna Audio of course specialise in customer counter weights to suit all arms.
The FR24 arm could probably do with a heavier antiskate weight too;)
Magna Audio
22-06-2014, 14:19
Here is a set of weights (heavier antiskate), lateral and custom mass counterweight for the mighty Fidelity Research FR64s tonearm.
Made in 303 grade stainless with semi polished finish to match the arm.
I used the same sized grub screw / hex key sizes as the originals.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/32d46f3bbddb48bcbbeeb648c4bbcfaa.jpg
If you have a machining need, I'm happy to discuss.
montesquieu
23-06-2014, 09:58
Just to say I got the TD124 back from Steve yesterday and he's done a truly fabulous job. AT arm will be used for an SPU, FR arm (which is a cracker - really musical) not quite sure yet!
Magna Audio
02-07-2014, 11:50
A few of the latest projects I been working on.
Replacement brass push button knobs for a heavy weight classic Pioneer amplifier.
These are tiny at 4mm diameter and 8mm long with a 1/8" hole to fit to the plastic part.
The replacements are machined in brass and longer than the originals so they can be fitted over the sheared off plastic stub left behind once broken.
The two left most are the originals that are prone to snapping. The 3 to the right are the new ones. The loose ones are spares.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/a9ab4e0664d140b54d5ede35a67af50e.jpg
An ebony tonearm board. Bound for Italy for a Technics SL-1210 deck. Drilled for a Audiomods (Rega converted) arm.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/31174dde38ba79acb745a4eaf575107c.jpg
My armboards are of 25mm overall thickness and supplied with easy to fit kit.
Magna Audio
14-07-2014, 14:04
Here is the above armboard mounted up on the customers deck with beautiful Audiomods arm (photos reproduced courtesy of the owner/customer - many thanks EU 73)
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/e57b4eff7da671ea768f20f73ded1d5c.jpg
Magna Audio
26-07-2014, 07:27
A couple of projects I've been working on
The first of 4 jobs for BobC of the Wam - vertical supports. Machined, drilled and threaded.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/05efa7151dca8448d1c42eda83f3fac4.jpg
An ebony armboard for a Jelco arm for Tannoy man
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/4daa48bfd95484dddabfe49881933f82.jpg
Magna Audio
07-08-2014, 17:46
Here are a couple of projects for Rexton
Armboard for SL-1210 with SME V fitting.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/71f393721cd857417a9266c63fbbc671.jpg
A counter weight in 303 Stainless steel specified for an SME 3012 tonearm. The original weight was too light for the intended cartridge / headshell and was nearly off the back of the arm stub. This baby will balance things nicely.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/1d0100383fb9bbadf0eade5682b0454f.jpg
Magna Audio
07-08-2014, 17:55
RJC Audio have ordered an armpod for the Cusworth Signature Plinth from me.
Design, dimensions and wood supplied by RJC Audio.
I have machined an armboard to suit the SME arm fitting, a plinth surround (both seen here in waxed English Walnut) and 4 brass threaded pillars. Once assembled with cap head bolts the armpod is very rigid / stable.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/d0528e5f4949e40b04bb58cc28a6ef42.jpg
For future armpods the base will be turned from solid brass and will not have the SME slot in it.
Assembled, the armpod will not be in contact with the plinth
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/6c2e7ad060922039d0f06468b9cc6fa5.jpg
Side view of the plinth cover flange
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/afd1c72c2929e9ef535ef9d6a0741b57.jpg
Magna Audio
23-08-2014, 11:30
Here is a finished SME3012 extra heavy counterweight including drillings and grubscrew for slider bar for the fine balance weight.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/b8326d80b9e817c174c26f4283dac81e.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/7756d77851a1145dac7ffd36d28db1fb.jpg
Magna Audio
02-09-2014, 09:45
After a nice holiday break, it's time for an update on some of the projects I've recently been working on.
First up is a Tannoy crossover setup. As requested I have made up birch ply boxes and modified the crossover wiring so that bi-amping is possible.
Birch ply was spec'd but I can make then in any wood of course.
This will enable for example a beefy Push Pull amp to be drive the LF and for example a SET amp on the HF. Simply bridging the inputs will of course allow single amp use.
The internals had already been reworked with new caps etc.
I tested them on my bass and treble horns and they sounded great.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/c15fe60265c2099c4063ec9ab75070d4.jpg
Next up was a set of jobs for the mystery prototype turntable project that I've made parts for before.
Internal brass bases / mounts
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/01b6c39d448b3bdf409b81c23156b3bf.jpg
More polished brass feet / an On/Off knob
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/d2549af6db72e6013a2ab5726ba53682.jpg
and a pair of copper armboard plates and smaller plates that were cut out elsewhere but required de-burring, scratch and ding removal and polishing.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/aed5176cc953c175b275ec6b00c4c04a.jpg
(My phone camera failed to capture these well I'm afraid)
More projects are on the go - so watch this space.
Magna Audio
07-10-2014, 13:54
Here's an ebony armboard for another very nice TD-124 / Audio Technica arm, this time a 9.5" one!
Arm hole and rest drillings, and I fitted the arm / armboard too.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/9adc55d7442fd56e8cfb45f23951ec19.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/7e4c3a338b7b2addc0183672427aace3.jpg
Here's an ebony armboard for another very nice TD-124 / Audio Technica arm, this time a 9.5" one!
Arm hole and rest drillings, and I fitted the arm / armboard too.
http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5386.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5386.jpg.html)
http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5383.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5383.jpg.html)
http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5384.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5384.jpg.html)
beautiful work as usual Steve, I bet that looks incredible in the flesh and what a delight it will be for the owner
cheers
Paul
Magna Audio
07-10-2014, 17:51
Yes, I can just see a nice bit o vinyl on there spinning away and the anticipation after the needle drop... :)
Magna Audio
14-10-2014, 14:54
Here's a spanking new extra mass counterweight for a Techi arm - will be on a journey all the way to New Zealand:)
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/1c6821c601c56d9c8e1ddaceab6d90ec.jpg
My rates are very competitive and I always keep postage costs down to minimum - Please see products and services website (link below) for details
Magna Audio
23-10-2014, 14:33
I've been busy with several jobs.
I've sold a tone arm that I bought and used as my own for a while. It was a Rega R200. I converted it to 12" format using a stainless steel arm tube correctly bent to SME 3012 geometry. I rewired it with Litz Copper tonearm wire.
I have just turned the counterweight in Stainless Steel to the customers weight spec, and also fitted a Cardas 5 pin tonearm cable plug and plug guide made of turned nylon.
I tested it thoroughly on my SP-10 deck with my SPU Royal N cartridge - It performed very nicely.
Here's how it looks
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/4ac631c229ec4396e836abf021489570.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/b557af3fb5f7e01e48519c4a4188e397.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/9492ce90c166c345967e09d0710b8f32.jpg
I can rewire Rega etc arms and also fit Cardas tone arm plugs (so you can use various tonearm cable with the standard 5 pin plug).
I've done a range of arms with these mods, including Alphason, Rega, Pioneer PL-71 etc.
Next up, I received a request from Thailand to make 3 bespoke counterweights.
A 45g, a 65g and a 85g one - all together 195g - this will give a wide range of headshell / cart fitting possibilities.
Fitted with 2 M4 grub screws for securing.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/af501360a3f52a4613816dc3e1aafb58.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/005576f36df9341bd4bd6488485e5fae.jpg
Then I also received a slightly different machining job - a wood lathe live centre point. Live centres rotate so that the piece that is to be turned is held in place at each end, by means of a Chuck at one end in the head stock and a live centre in a tail stock at the other end.
The problem with a standard live centre is that there is not enough room to get the wood turning chisels in, when turning bowls for example.
So a long centre was devised and idea circulated on wood turning forums. My customer had made a test piece in wood and commissioned me to make one out of aluminium. I suggested brass, which is harder than Aluminium.
Here is the centre with original 60 degree cone and the fitting spigot is also a taper.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/fc8db8be0ab272172bcdb9e0ce50a19e.jpg
Here is the James Bond'esque (You only live twice) one I made. I dubbed as I've dubbed it after the space craft swallowing rocket / capsule.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/8bab7bd7a094bd945e0857de517e5701.jpg
Here it is under test in a piece of dowel running at over 2000rpm on my lathe.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/e75aa7bd2f26cb9cc8c4ffb64dc96d5f.jpg
If you need a piece machining / making just contact me to discuss.
Magna Audio
13-11-2014, 08:32
Here are a few of the latest creations I've made for customers near and far.
An Ebony tonearm board for the lovely Ortofon RS-212D tonearm. This one will be fitted to an SL-1210 with aftermarket bearing, platter and plate.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/da6afeabf231ef9b78e289b57435bb7b.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/6f1b27df8937e75f0d8a44424f9a5ea1.jpg
An Ebony tonearm board for Garrard 301
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/d83d31b51a8e28e52313135030da650c.jpg
A heavy counterweight and ingenious lateral damping weights in Stainless steel for the RB300 tonearm (search for - twl strange tonearm tweak).
These were for an enthusiast in New Zealand.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/e20ed658b8487e7359ba8b347545e20d.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/3664f7b06564ae43892a44c6c2646bb7.jpg
Just drop me a line if you require some machining, an armboard or other creations.
Magna Audio
28-11-2014, 15:06
Here's a Ebony armboard for a AR ES-1 Turntable.
Made to suit Rega spindle to pivot but with the larger hole required for the Mitchell VTA adjuster adapter.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/2b106fcc7001606ff6a1461ed6db7e7e.jpg
The dishing is to allow the arm to sit low enough (some height is taken by the Mitchell VTA screw) and large enough to allow fingers in to adjust.
Made from a card template the customer sent me - note the proper Rega 222mm line and the position of the hole in the orginal armboard.
The difference could be taken up by the headshell slots but it must have compromised optimal geometry. The Ebony board should be spot on.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/ed846ec825d10929405fc91a4e6b5d9a.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/5f699bedff2371c88978fd20ec5e218a.jpg
On customer deck
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/329eac521a1f655422a89cbe5baf7a1e.jpg
Magna Audio
08-12-2014, 17:25
Here's one for montesquieu, an add-on to increase the mass of a Audio Note counter weight.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/06fa1de410952e4814a94471e423e751.jpg
Magna Audio
22-12-2014, 16:45
Here are a couple of projects I've recently done.
A custom counter weight for a Fidelity Research FR24. There were 2 weights with the arm but even with both there was not enough mass to balance the FR headshell and AT cart.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/5ecdb7cf4e4630325eb80fc4bf209a0a.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/91f31f5a45c85b4405b9466ec29089e6.jpg
I also set up the VTA, VTF, Cartridge alignment, arm lift height and the adjusted the Lenco spindle speed to 33 1/3 rpm.
The project was checked by having a good listen to make sure all was working properly and demo'd it too.
Here's one for the NJ USA. A counterweight for a Denon DP 59L turntable. Large 21.1mm arm stub. Made for tolerance fit
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/a0174095a9b7be11f2574621236f80d0.jpg
Magna Audio
01-01-2015, 20:23
I was approached to make the 3 arm balancing counter weights, anti-skate weight and lateral weight for a Dynavector DV-505 arm, needed to complete the arm, as these had gone missing.
These were made to original weight specification.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/4fcb7ee1a922b257f8842ffaa91ac141.jpg
I've many more jobs in the pipeline so watch this space.
Magna Audio
25-01-2015, 12:50
Lots of things going on in the workshop.
A pair of Tannoy GRF-R replicas are currently being build.
Here are the 21mm and 24mm Scandinavian birch ply external panels all cut and prepped ready for build
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/56230085f3d6a36ac6723c1b9e5fe634.jpg
I've also made an arm pod for a FR64s tonearm.
Great for treating yourself to an extra arm - perhaps 10 or 12" or for a mono cartridge.
This is for a standard height plinth / deck so the 4" aluminium tube is not very tall but it has 7kg of lead cast into it for mass and total stability.
Topped off with an Ebony armboard and fitted with 3 height adjustable brass knurled feet.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/7a3fd2658428d75d84c257c556569b70.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/0fa63deb566ed2abb90d903d20dcb50d.jpg
The keen eyed among you will notice two anti-skate weights. The arm came with only one (the light one), I have made the heavy spec one for the customer's arm.
Top view
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/e701007b923cb94d9de88852cb4e3cc8.jpg
Plenty of room for tonearm cable to exit at the base
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/926f6239bf5fe822390ca116401b3834.jpg
Here is a solid polished Ebony record puck I made. 320g in weight. A real beauty.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/4d6ea11ada438f3f1600231ada3a4ae2.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/9fa3d539f3b3ff1bf4e780838d29e7ad.jpg
Here I made a small fine adjusting balance / counterweight to to on the bigger main weight.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/596f47c979f91beb2bb8075a5fc87765.jpg
As part if this project I also fitted a new Rega armlift to an existing arm (the old one would not stay up),
fitted a new carbon fibre idler/drive wheel and trimmed the speed in
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/6426a313b3d24d654f39dcd7b4c1abc9.jpg
and also repaired a defect on off switch.
walpurgis
25-01-2015, 13:52
All very nice. That's neat work. :)
Magna Audio
26-01-2015, 10:02
All very nice. That's neat work. :)
:)
Thanks walpurgis
Yup, quality stuff (as usual), mate! :youtheman:
Marco.
Magna Audio
05-02-2015, 20:32
Thanks Marco:)
I've been busy, here are a few more creations
For this one I cut down a wide pro audio unit and made a bespoke case so that it fits nicely with the customers other hifi gear.
The unit is for mono cartridge settings/adjustment.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/2367120f15f4a8c8da532d44d15be547.jpg
Ebony armboards for the fantastic SL-1210 are popular! Here is one for the Micro Seiki MA-202 tonearm.
Note the very shallow dishing. This is esspecially for the deeper 'Mike' after market platter.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/e52edcc2fe4359a1cb151a98e54b3de7.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/f61eba747b57dd8b318cf48a27aa341b.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/3e0fc2a541c8beb1b4a1838ceec7a209.jpg
Here is a Audio Technica AT-1005mkII arm mounted on a birch ply armboard I have made. This has been stained and lacquered to match the SL-1210 plinth.
This arm originally had no armlift and the rest was fitted to the deck.
I have made a custom arm rest rod, fitted to the base, this solid 3mm rod is stable and secure - uses a Technics armrest clip.
(Please note - I did not make the armlift attachment - that was already on the arm)
Looking forward to getting that on my deck!
Magna Audio
06-02-2015, 12:33
Here are some more tasters
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/eb4704710341dc7108ad068b8c04639a.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/227c43957eb1dbfb5f2226f7e4611883.jpg
RobbieGong
10-02-2015, 21:49
Collected my new ebony armboard from the post office today (see middle two images post #72 above with hole drilled for armrest). All I can say is that it is gorgeous and looks even better in the flesh and stunning in situ on my Techie. This is my second ebony from Steve. I asked Steve to produce me a new one as I found I needed a little more height after installing the Mike New baseplate which raises the platter by 6mm. Steve dished the ebony by 3mm rather than the 8mm of my first armboard allowing my armbase / arm to sit just that bit higher as requested. The finish and attention to detail is excellent. Steve even provided small black nylon washers to sit as a cushion between the armboard securing screw heads and the ebony - nice !! For anyone who wants an armboard that is not just a big yes in terms of sonic naturalness but also an aesthetic thing of beauty then do not hesitate as Steves ebony / African wood armboards are quality and a complete no brainer. Yours genuinely, One very happy bunny :D :) ;)
Collected my new ebony armboard from the post office today (see middle two images post #72 above with hole drilled for armrest). All I can say is that it is gorgeous and looks even better in the flesh and stunning in situ on my Techie. This is my second ebony from Steve. I asked Steve to produce me a new one as I found I needed a little more height after installing the Mike New baseplate which raises the platter by 6mm. Steve dished the ebony by 3mm rather than the 8mm of my first armboard allowing my armbase / arm to sit just that bit higher as requested. The finish and attention to detail is excellent. Steve even provided small black nylon washers to sit as a cushion between the armboard securing screw heads and the ebony - nice !! For anyone who wants an armboard that is not just a big yes in terms of sonic naturalness but also an aesthetic thing of beauty then do not hesitate as Steves ebony / African wood armboards are quality and a complete no brainer. Yours genuinely, One very happy bunny :D :) ;)
I have been toying with the idea of upgrading my Jelco 750D tonearm. I shortlisted SME M2-9, Wilson Benesch ACT 0.5, Origin Live Illustrious. Then I thought that AR, Dr Feikert, Electocompaniet, Luxman, Koetsu etc use or have used Jelco arms so I have gone another route. I have decided to upgrade the Jelco itself. Just yesterday I ordered an ebony armboard from Speedy Steve, and will add an ebony headshell (either Uwe or Yamamoto Sound) and this should provide a more organic sound - after all they make oboes and clarinets from ebony so surely its sonic signature is benign. (My other upgrades are Shuggies Improved collar, ordered today, and the Isokinetic counterweight.)
Magna Audio
11-02-2015, 07:59
That's cool RobbieG.
Your's is next up Andrei:)
I've just finished an ebony one for SME309 fitting - post pics later.
Magna Audio
12-02-2015, 12:39
Ebony is popular. Here is a SME board fitting for a MkII
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/e4722a46f933dd53a7b51173e5b2a54a.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/56973a67d1eeb22a8b4cf23ea38d5e69.jpg
Here is Andrei's armboard:) Extra deep for the uprated Shuggie Jelco base. Fitting kit for SL-1210 MKV.
I'll include a cut down allen key for the armbase as room is limited for a standard length one due to the depth...
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/dc5c278b79cd38c66683e204d13f56af.jpg
Some interesting arm rewire and armtube creation projects up next.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/a79b7b196deb3ea0f2da4104ba9b6663.jpg
Not had time to fit my board and arm yet Steve but looks v good.
The Mrs goes away for a few days next week so a few peaceful nights of turntable fettling are in order i think...
Magna Audio
12-02-2015, 20:54
Not had time to fit my board and arm yet Steve but looks v good.
The Mrs goes away for a few days next week so a few peaceful nights of turntable fettling are in order i think...
That's cool Rich.
Ah - some real pipe and slippers and music time coming up then:)
Magna Audio
12-02-2015, 21:02
I did a tonearm rewire job for Tom (Montesquieu) today.
It was for his AT 12" arm that I made an arm rest and lift holder for (this one)
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/1c1fb5c36264a6d984977412cc4d9656.jpg
Re-wired using silk covered Silver wire. The fifth wire was copper litz for the earth
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/7e0ab5c7aa245670672ea04db9c6fb95.jpg
Here is Andrei's armboard:) Extra deep for the uprated Shuggie Jelco base. Fitting kit for SL-1210 MKV.
I'll include a cut down allen key for the armbase as room is limited for a standard length one due to the depth...
http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5625.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5625.jpg.html)
Lookin' good. They don't call you Speedy for nothing. :thumbsup:
Sovereign
12-02-2015, 23:03
Lovely work there Steve
Thanks Marco:)
I've been busy, here are a few more creations
For this one I cut down a wide pro audio unit and made a bespoke case so that it fits nicely with the customers other hifi gear.
The unit is for mono cartridge settings/adjustment.
http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5569.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5569.jpg.html)
Ebony armboards for the fantastic SL-1210 are popular! Here is one for the Micro Seiki MA-202 tonearm.
Note the very shallow dishing. This is esspecially for the deeper 'Mike' after market platter.
http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5603.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5603.jpg.html)
http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5604.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5604.jpg.html)
Here is a Audio Technica AT-1005mkII arm mounted on a birch ply armboard I have made. This has been stained and lacquered to match the SL-1210 plinth.
This arm originally had no armlift and the rest was fitted to the deck.
I have made a custom arm rest rod, fitted to the base, this solid 3mm rod is stable and secure - uses a Technics armrest clip.
(Please note - I did not make the armlift attachment - that was already on the arm)
http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5613.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5613.jpg.html)
Got the armboard and at1005mkii fitted today. Got it set up with a digital stylus scale and the cart is tracking at the optimal 1.4g. As it happens there's about 8 or 9mm clearance from the tonearm clip so all is well there. Needed to fiddle with the armlift a bit but got there eventually.
Soundwise this is a massive step up from the stock arm and when combined with the wooden armboard produces such an almost CD like presentation. The at440mla is a star performer in this way.
Magna Audio
27-02-2015, 15:57
Got the armboard and at1005mkii fitted today. Got it set up with a digital stylus scale and the cart is tracking at the optimal 1.4g. As it happens there's about 8 or 9mm clearance from the tonearm clip so all is well there. Needed to fiddle with the armlift a bit but got there eventually.
Soundwise this is a massive step up from the stock arm and when combined with the wooden armboard produces such an almost CD like presentation. The at440mla is a star performer in this way.
Hi,
Yes the arm lift was done (not by me), a bit too close to the pivot point but it does work once dialled it in.
So glad the armboard and rest are doing the business. These AT arms are really good and nice to use with a a lift and rest added.
Ebony is popular. Here is a SME board fitting for a MkII
Here is Andrei's armboard:) Extra deep for the uprated Shuggie Jelco base. Fitting kit for SL-1210 MKV.
I'll include a cut down allen key for the armbase as room is limited for a standard length one due to the depth...
http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5628.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5628.jpg.html)
Brief report on Ebony Armboard. In short it's good.
I am still trying to work this all out but I think the armboard, in the context of my system, is unusually helpful.
The order of events is that I first damped the chassis. This was done with Dynamat on the exposed metal under the platter. Then flipping the turntable and setting Dynamat on most of the metal underside. (This takes a long time and I will report more fully later on this aspect.) The result of this is that there is virtually no resonance when tapping the chassis. By the way this a cheap upgrade. So that leaves the Armboard. This is not damped, except is own damping or course, and so the 'only' resonance comes from the armboard. 'Only' is a bit of an exaggeration as there is still the tonearm, but the point is there is no competing chassis, which after all is much larger than the Armboard. The sonic signature of the ebony is benign, and in fact they make oboes and other instruments from the stuff. In terms of listening it has improved the timbre of instruments.
But wait, there's more. I have added an African Hardwood headshell to the mix. It is the Yamamoto Sound HS-1As. This has had an equally significant impact, similar to the armboard. It is smaller than the armboard but is closer to where 'the rubber meets the road'.
The way I am looking at it is that these three upgrades work really well in combination. I was expecting a modest improvement but it is substantial. The particular listening improvement is in the timbre of the instruments as mentioned. But also an improvement in the soundstage - not in widening it, but sharpening it to the point where the location of solo instruments is precise. I am rather surprised to put it mildly.
Magna Audio
05-03-2015, 08:56
Brief report on Ebony Armboard. In short it's good.
I am still trying to work this all out but I think the armboard, in the context of my system, is unusually helpful.
The order of events is that I first damped the chassis. This was done with Dynamat on the exposed metal under the platter. Then flipping the turntable and setting Dynamat on most of the metal underside. (This takes a long time and I will report more fully later on this aspect.) The result of this is that there is virtually no resonance when tapping the chassis. By the way this a cheap upgrade. So that leaves the Armboard. This is not damped, except is own damping or course, and so the 'only' resonance comes from the armboard. 'Only' is a bit of an exaggeration as there is still the tonearm, but the point is there is no competing chassis, which after all is much larger than the Armboard. The sonic signature of the ebony is benign, and in fact they make oboes and other instruments from the stuff. In terms of listening it has improved the timbre of instruments.
But wait, there's more. I have added an African Hardwood headshell to the mix. It is the Yamamoto Sound HS-1As. This has had an equally significant impact, similar to the armboard. It is smaller than the armboard but is closer to where 'the rubber meets the road'.
The way I am looking at it is that these three upgrades work really well in combination. I was expecting a modest improvement but it is substantial. The particular listening improvement is in the timbre of the instruments as mentioned. But also an improvement in the soundstage - not in widening it, but sharpening it to the point where the location of solo instruments is precise. I am rather surprised to put it mildly.
Great to hear Andrei!
Substantial improvement is great - take that anyday:)
Magna Audio
12-03-2015, 17:45
I was recently asked to fabricate a tonearm tube to replace one that was damaged during modification to a different headshell socket.
Working from a tech drawing of the arm and the old arm tube
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/0fa747e1d14e539c483ecdf79cf66d83.jpg
I fabricated a new tube - turned to fit the arm holder and internal mounting bush.
Arm tube bent and end drilled and cut for head shell socket.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/8fca473068a2401408b096a4a1923b63.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/018f932d404e1b2ac2206fe2aa09c535.jpg
The finished article was then spray painted to match the original - socket re-wired with copper litz tonearm wire
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/644d1db987778e65e10f3a93776fb741.jpg
Fun project that has kept Serge's AEG Telefunken TRS9000 record deck going.
Magna Audio
12-03-2015, 18:14
I've also recently made a pair of Tannoy GRF-R replica cabinets for a pair of HPD 385 drivers.
These were shipped on a pallet to Sweden.
Using 21 and 24mm premium birch ply throughout.
The material cut ready for preparation.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/56230085f3d6a36ac6723c1b9e5fe634.jpg
Driver installation - Your drivers are in very safe hands with me - I have extensive experience of handling and installing the drivers.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/9685a5d2eee39ce599e2f18113c1c50a.jpg
Crossovers installed and hifi quality binding posts installed
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/f285b483e58cacc30df2276f2f3b80d5.jpg
A deep mahagony polish was chosen - here all polished up
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/a08eaf202bae77f71dae901bab36632e.jpg
Full length black grilles
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/9808463781baecb0d781000644807305.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/bc260f47348d0d93413d101a98e4b58a.jpg
Grille removed
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/8736864931366d5d0c16d5cbf22ca817.jpg
Very carefully packed, strapped down and shrink-wrapped on pallet for delivery to Sweden
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/4b3c31ff2dae39236c4d68c35a2417af.jpg
Prices are quite sensible for shipping within the EU. Worldwide shipping is also possible.
I am currently working on a Lowther / Mauhorn project - so watch this space.
Magna Audio
13-03-2015, 16:49
Here's an Ebony armboard bound for a SL-1210. Drilled for a Jelco SA750D tonearm and provisioned with extra deep mounting surface for the 'Shuggie' upgrade Jelco armbase.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/7039dfecf34067ccce1166151520ac97.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171008/a49f25fd9b5740809dadcfbf43464d7c.jpg
Magna Audio
17-03-2015, 12:35
Here are a couple of jobs for BobC
145mm diameter birch plywood flanges
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/42c7c85b1f05838df8673069dbae65a2.jpg
Stainless steel turnings. Have M8 threaded bases
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/ce1860642584ab9ac98648c64e48309e.jpg
Lovely! You can't beat a nicely turned flange... :eyebrows:
Marco.
Magna Audio
17-03-2015, 18:14
Lovely! You can't beat a nicely turned flange... :eyebrows:
Marco.
Yes, sometimes you do wonder where these bits will go...:)
Magna Audio
08-04-2015, 09:33
The original armboard for the lead filled stand alone arm pod I supplied was for a Fidelity Research FR64s arm.
It had to be shallow as the arm is quite high and there was not a lot of height overall to play with.
The Schick 12" arm is much lower so a thicker solid ebony armboard could be fitted.
Test mounted on the pod
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/94e31fd252fce17ad9bb6c1be935c314.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/dbbeb7bf7568a64ee4ff4bca32c71f73.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/adf6c46f0d66cb41befa27c0263ae64b.jpg
Magna Audio
11-04-2015, 16:03
Here's a little job for germbox
He was looking to balance a DL103 and heavy AT headshell and also needed spacers to get the VTA right.
Full thread here
http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?37538-SL1210M5G-and-DL103R-counterweight-Headshell-problems&highlight=spacer
I made him a 142g Stainless steel counterweight and headshell to cartridge spacers in ebony at 3.5mm and 4.5mm thick.
In the Post to the USA.
Be interesting to hear how they get on.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/6aafd99da2c301dac1f9945d21cfc346.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/a18c929b8bb8e8248f995d82d41ccc8b.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/f934ad332c16a7e1e4d6ab39e4709265.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/2e3c7bc0443ee9635713aa8dcf581179.jpg
Magna Audio
24-04-2015, 08:54
An interesting project this one.
A recessed top board to fit in the Clearaudio armboard hole, with SME fitting.
A sandwich arrangement to clamp the board in place, sandwiching the plinth.
The lower clamping ring is C shaped to allow the large right angled arm plug used to clear even on a low arm setting.
It's off to Mexico with this one.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/8fdd5cac58b0bb0eef5321571082c39d.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/b5092ad586dd05992a476f46539fd624.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/1c1e1a06c7f16769be6512d723eb6210.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/73e6edbab09702e96920663348e6ecfe.jpg
Magna Audio
18-05-2015, 21:20
Designed by me to have the same internal horn areas but occupy much less floor width these are proving popular.
From load of wood
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/195fe1d7df80d7f8d49c6a6d70a1c082.jpg
Basic cutting done
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/87ce10c099e7a5b7fe82d4e539788d18.jpg
Getting there
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/bc663ed52939ed52c5ccabbe7a67f4a7.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/c01cdf507442ee180f9fdec9ddaaa66a.jpg
Testing the drivers
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/5654a4e8c736c6130df1bd93d58106f5.jpg
Drivers fitted
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/8950759c9e3a31fec300dc68299499c9.jpg
This pair is to be bi-amped / active
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/be3f6f891ce4b1d3106fe0cb7de2c467.jpg
Full length grilles for this pair
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/51492a5e36f63f1d9102e56d7dfcde28.jpg
Ready to ship
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/af3f7121c64abc88d4052e7af1f73487.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/5d892b438a9453001661237892e13306.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/350dde665333421bd6c8e47bddcd9d55.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/00a6dd673944a43d8185e6a7e63d75eb.jpg
Another pair of GRF replicas in premium 21mm birch ply are created.
Magna Audio
18-05-2015, 21:34
A tonearm pod of aluminium tube construction. Will have adjustable feet and ebony armboard.
Fitted to be interchangeable for both an Amari Oxywell Mozart 12" and a Linn arm.
Tube top and tailed, smoothed and polished
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/2110033b03f2318e6e00bb89900458a6.jpg
Protective tape applied, tube is filled with cast lead. Centre hole for armbase and tonearm cable.
These pods are very heavy, and stable as a standalone armbase.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/d628b5f17dd82f4eb871da5870359efb.jpg
Next up will be resin cap / aluminium disc base and footwork.
To be continued...
Magna Audio
18-05-2015, 22:49
Resin now cast
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/bf3bccb00564bd0e08fcd9b13701a0ad.jpg
Magna Audio
23-05-2015, 12:11
Height / level adjustable feet - machined finish underneath, polished on top / visible face.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/3293d2bf16a2401afc0026708d965ab1.jpg
The finished article. With holes to take the Oxywell arm and also Linn 3 hole arms with centre hole.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/09f9ab50f12b72280382fdeebd4f348e.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171005/297f463214e11fa0d2b20fbc05a507f5.jpg
I have an armboard special for a Black Widow arm to finish making and then it's off to the Mississippi USA with them both.
Magna Audio
23-05-2015, 12:18
The GRF cabs..
Arrived up in Scotland and the new owner is "very very happy"
Magna Audio
27-05-2015, 11:45
One for Geoff,
From waxed ebony block to basic machining done
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/72f8921d5b9addc91cf669128e257eb6.jpg
Finished article inc fitting kit and bolts / washers / nuts supplied for SME armbase
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/50fac836b893150db042c641a99fa2e8.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/aa217b0f3671eef40f2f02a953726f63.jpg
In the post this afternoon:)
Very nice, as usual, Steve! However, Geoff who? ;)
Marco.
Magna Audio
27-05-2015, 14:29
Very nice, as usual, Steve! However, Geoff who? ;)
Marco.
Geoff...you know... :) ...thought he might be on here, perhaps not? Anyway I sent him a link so he might be along soon;)
Lol - what's his username?
Marco.
Geoff101
27-05-2015, 18:52
Me. To try an SME series 3 on my 1210 mk2.
Ah, nice one, Geoff. Just wondered who Steve was referring to! Enjoy :cool:
Marco.
Geoff101
29-05-2015, 19:25
Received and fitted. Lovely job thanks Steve:
http://www.g32.co.uk/images/SL1210_SME1.JPG
http://www.g32.co.uk/images/SL1210_SME2.JPG
Looks ace! Bet it's improved the sound of your Techy, too :)
Marco.
Geoff101
29-05-2015, 21:17
Looks ace! Bet it's improved the sound of your Techy, too :)
Marco.
Not half. I've started a thread in the Technics section.
Magna Audio
31-05-2015, 11:00
Great to hear Geoff - love it when a plan comes together. That does look ace!
I'll shimmy over to the thread about it and have a read.
I'm getting really good at doing these SME slots;)
Magna Audio
31-05-2015, 11:01
Fettling for FR64s and TD-124
A regular customer of mine recently acquired a FR64s.
Unfortunately it was slightly damaged in transit - the lateral weight rod pulled out. This was threaded into a brass ferrule. Only 2mm at most the threads were damaged.
I made a new rod and securely attached it.
The lift arm radius (not original but a nice piece) also need a bit of attention as it was too high to be used with the intended headshell and cartridge - soon sorted.
The other thing was the desire to run the arm at a spindle to pivot distance of 231.5mm instead of the recommended 230mm.
Several owners have written about the benefits of 231.5mm. I run mine like that with my SPU Royal N.
At this distance the FR64s is right on the limit of what the TD-124 can manage. The large FR64s armbase nut is also large to accomodate.
With some careful enlarging of the plinth it fits nicely and does not foul the metalwork - essential to ensure arm / armboard / plinth acoustic relationship is kept right.
A very nice combination indeed with the right cartridge.
The customer reported "it's sounding the best it's ever sounded. More relaxed and open, more 3D... Definitely worth changing the distance (spindle to pivot), it seems to have made everything click in. Arm lift height is perfect now"
Another job sorted.
Magna Audio
11-06-2015, 13:14
:worthless:
Don't you mean last post - the thread has ample pics;)
Not really worth taking pics of that last one!
The next one is worthy...
Magna Audio
11-06-2015, 13:14
This one is bound for Singapore.
The brief was to make a armlift and rest holder to fit the lovely ATP-12t (a 10.5 inch arm), this time it had to be as short as possible to allow maximum range / travel of the arm tube slider weight.
Hewn and then fine milled out of 6mm plate Stainless Steel and then polished to match the arm / the chromed Jelco armlift that was was supplied to match.
Both the arm lift and rest are height adjustable the latter also position adjustable.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/4a2cf105762932e8c54f7df6d09c1eee.jpg
Shaped, tapped, polished and fitted out
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/fdecfc27034a667e2581d7745750941f.jpg
Testing with dummy armtube
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/64b239e4e32634b683a41abae5d8a894.jpg
The counterweight required to balance SPUs was 200g.
This was also made of Stainless Steel, shaped to match the original and polished. A thumbscrew was chosen instead of a grub screw
Cutting the thumbscrew thread
Drilling the weight, a nylon inner damping sleeve will be fitted.
Weight checked
the finished article
If you have a project or 'special' engineering need required to create a solution, just contact me.
Magna Audio
22-07-2015, 06:49
A nice turning project in solid brass.
There are ~4.3" in diameter with a 2.160" 16 threads per inch thread to screw on to Vitavox 1.5" compression drivers. They would also fit similar Phillips drivers that are 1.378".
The finished articles - polished outer surface and countersinks for the M6 bolt heads
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/74b4a0ec4650d369140587ec821827f4.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/d7bf9278c94d11aa40c9141f46628b26.jpg
I can also make them in aluminium.
Magna Audio
22-07-2015, 07:19
Busy in the workshop, I am making a series of adapters for a customer for various compression drivers of 1.378 and 1.5" throats to enable fitting to 2" throat horns.
Test fitting in my Vitavox S2 compression driver
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/760ac4f98d35f78b26817e2a1589ce29.jpg
Testing / listening with 400Hz tractrix horn on an S2
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/ef0ed5301f97fe3dec427ecf211f8d1a.jpg
Special attention is paid to get the perfect driver to throat fit and smooth transition.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/21c6451822b9ca7148520a3dce7ab55d.jpg
I have also made sets of these for 250Hz tractrix horns.
Magna Audio
10-08-2015, 13:16
Here's a custom armboard for Ammonite Audio.
For a Kenwood KD-990 turntable that will be used at Whittlebury showcasing Jelco tonearms and collars.
It'll be a 10" SA-750E going on the armboard / deck.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/577dd229687a93709f7e342b808e9f00.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/682268e60ad4cdfd6bf668ee57647ae8.jpg
I look forward to pics of it from Whittelbury.
A custom extra heavy for the super Fidelity Research FR64s.
This one is a birthday present:)
Here it is test mounted on my FR64s
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/0f8b790594b89f3666bf82f178dcb27f.jpg
Makes the original alongside quite small!
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/5f491dd86474229ea02f7aa3c016ac7d.jpg
Couple of turned 'top hats' for BobC / Vinyl Art.
M8 threaded bases. Highly polished top and top sides.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/8179635395dde8bc4d4bf37ca4390c39.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/f6cac0f3d4599006fb2106801c44b15a.jpg
Magna Audio
13-08-2015, 14:32
A pair of phase plugs made for Voxativ full range drivers.
These are hand crafted in solid ebony and polished.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/409a74cc1a677009379f467fc8988cd6.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/6c835ca0c3f26ea356acf88995f10b43.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/bc26bf535c2d0c1555efb59e55e0f0fc.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/4c98d96834f7ab05ef348d9109078d09.jpg
along side an oak one
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/739e7b0f61ad396e160eaf1bdbf6a7a7.jpg
Magna Audio
01-09-2015, 11:29
Here is an armboard for a Heybrook. Made of 18mm premium birch ply as specified.
Finish is black satin lacquer.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/822b041eaad24732e5e25bc31dfbb067.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/ec378e6e612d7f6a30d6315b248ce50a.jpg
Magna Audio
01-09-2015, 14:51
Another pair of horn to compression driver adapter rings 1.5" Vitavox etc.
They are very popular these:)
The 4 horn fitting threads are the proper vintage 1/4" UNC, unlike others you can get elsewhere.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/8b7da542097ee553f6f319b22e7df068.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/38418c5375ce42bb5a5b072ab0dbfb9d.jpg
Seen here with the S2 throat adapter part screwed in to the upper one to test for perfect fit.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/aa90d04d5e539473cfb48e64b899688f.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/6a15455942653b4c512afd9fdecf7feb.jpg
Magna Audio
17-09-2015, 14:16
Here's an interesting job.
A fully (spindle to pivot) adjustable armbase collar and base plate.
All parts are machined from scratch from brass bar and plate / stainless steel.
The collar
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/2c8d5108f9997566a07e2a0ac3bec0e1.jpg
Base part machined
All base plate machining done, domed knurled nuts in brass and sliding pins in stainless steel
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/19733d898717ee37f1b50e808e9d61f6.jpg
The complete article assembled
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/fef1e2728e4345aa2c66e86edd03de53.jpg
This will be now be sent off for chroming - more pics once I've received it back for checking over and sending off to the customer.
Magna Audio
10-10-2015, 07:25
Another handcrafted armpod in brass this time and with a 1" thick ebony armboard.
Again cast solid lead filled for mass, adjustable feet. These armpods really are heavy/solid and do not move once placed.
The polished brass adds a nice contrast to the ebony.
This one will be fitted with a Schick 12" arm and is on it's way to Singapore.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/e3f6586feeca9640a252ebf97292d2be.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/7bc54105c3fe92ccb9785d884e4945b0.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/7c214243a4c20eecffa20c802ac9a39c.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/bc7a07fa395d4db3ebfdbf0dbf01cf63.jpg
Magna Audio
08-01-2016, 14:00
Here's the first one that was always destined to be chromed all finished.
Moving home and workshop (from Surrey to the New Forest delayed my putting pics up here.
Came out nicely.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/73fb947a18d626ec80bbb54817f5de45.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/2564403388a06a3f2574d5a3b4437516.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/396c7a2a1d61388607be135269af5aaf.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/cd67ad986fdcb6f45f31b8bae4715974.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/06868cdeb0094ba42c0e4bcc16f29073.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/bf89ed8b949b8ccaa47838d6a2e1db7c.jpg
Magna Audio
01-03-2016, 07:39
Having moved house and workshop and been busy creating mostly armboards recently, it's time for an update.
Here is the latest crop.
A pair of SL-1210 ebony armboards with SME arm fitting - bound for the USA
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/9f8ff453aeae55d79a4627b36fd1c221.jpg
SL-1210 armboard in Ebony for Mikro-Seiki arm with on board rest mounting
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/0a47612f40a84bc014e33e9768f8572b.jpg
SL-1210 armboard in Ebony for a Jelco / Ammonite uprated armbase - For Singapore this one.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/b1216c1d2ccbfd6c38b3226567733067.jpg
A spindle reduction job so that a perspex disc could be fitted over the spindle end
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/764b56d71c923b13b890434aa615423a.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/a3bcb64bc6bc0f041fdc387d56ba5efc.jpg
Lacquered finished armboard for a JVC QL-50 deck. Had to be very accurately made to a template / customer measurements, and with recessed turned nylon bolt mounts - for Canada this one.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/56c1c00b4702a764b3c7c18027df5e1a.jpg
SL-1210 armboard in Ebony for uprated Ammonite armbase / Jelco - For the USA
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/8b9da757c4d38ac60c6a6ed7fbac1a27.jpg
SL-1210 Ebony for a Dynavector DV-505 arm - For New Zealand this one.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/c96242c418c0b80d7ca2c205fd11013d.jpg
Magna Audio
07-03-2016, 15:56
This was for an armboard for customer in Singapore
"Hi Steve:
Finally had time to install the armboard.
Fits perfectly. Attached are some pics.
Thanks again for your wonderful product and service."
It's always nice to hear how things have gone and see the installation of the things I make in use. Getting some lovely pics of the deck and arm fitted are a bonus
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/3ab02324b820519b1e5884a47f18b99f.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/e9cdfbe273c0c483d0e56eb9a817072e.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/8e65c2718915e967548815c03c8a06a5.jpg
Here's some feedback from the customer for the bespoke AT armlift and rest I made in polished stainless steel, and an extra heavy
counterweight too.
Steve,
Just a brief “thank you” note. I’ve been listening to the ATP-12t with the extra weight & arm rest/lift
and am very happy. I’m using Miyajima Premium Be mono cartridge in a heavy Fidelity Research FR-S/3
headshell and the combinations requires the extra weight. Mono records sound great with this.
Thanks again!
Pics of the lift and on deck.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/b91b9fa57379de6d6c03fc7bfbbdd458.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/6a83a3489bbe9ffd6e67adbf4924b1bd.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/3df498dac423758c5e87992ba1bcc081.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/f468013c4a877f7f2d0d6f1d654e6c9d.jpg
Magna Audio
29-04-2016, 07:23
More interesting projects
An ARS-1 ebony armboard mound for the States
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/c7c616cb166b018d0d767ffacc036265.jpg
Ebony headshell spacer & counterweight for an SL-1210 also in the States
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/e4d2e3d8298d9064752eefaa6d4dd690.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/3a76e501f7c9c787af897575d7ec054e.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/08ba61383c6d9471c040abceade531dd.jpg
Shown here with a Brass / ebony record weight puck and armboard for the same customer
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/aebb186b0ced587f04ceabd8c00f706d.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/eee67f6adf336343aee2a7d3dfed0d2f.jpg
More Flanges for Bob
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/8b8c035ac439984f9807af230ef3e9d2.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/e3279e30cfd47deea94c27639dc81a6d.jpg
Something a little different - A WAF Najda 4 Channel DSP DAC / ADC, X/O with WaveIO USB -> I2S input.
The Najda board and WaveIO are complete but very much build into a case yourself project items. The case was CNC machined to ensure good fit and looks - Thanks to Pete and Wal for help on the case.
This one is fitted full with Burson OP-amps and a very nice OLED display..
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/e3a2433567f3322530b9f87f813f86ad.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/fc7ca784f74873de954468008d6f3463.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/6f65fe6076fc91e9b52de2e1dc97060d.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/e03d2ba84377d420e1533f7bfc4c45a0.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/2053863f97b60cbe37988cfd83ebd483.jpg
Here's a nice ebony one for Scotland - for a Mission 774
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/480c18b7a7797b6fed9f26bd71f6a7f5.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/e666fbe4e2db0e6cd4e71944d0e34e63.jpg
I've lots more on the go, so watch this space.
Magna Audio
10-05-2016, 15:14
First one is an African Blackwood, for an Ammonite base / Jelco 750 arm.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/559501f2d8aac4f6784a6133710d999f.jpg
In a different light
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/cbb0c3935b0c8d0b02e40861525a8ca2.jpg
This Ebony one is for the Mission 774 arm. It's a much bigger armbase than the SME offerings.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/fdac7f803f492f6316d93d8c728e362e.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/76428fba9ade18d42d2942213d7be816.jpg
I have a satin black armpod and a valve amp protective valve cage on the go ready soon
realysm42
19-05-2016, 09:51
Nice work Steve.
Magna Audio
27-05-2016, 21:23
Nice work Steve.
Thanks :)
Here's the latest ones;)
First up is an armpod all in black to match its surroundings.
This one was not as tall as the others so it can be used on a standard height plinth / platter turntable. The cast lead filling means it is plenty
heavy enough to not be moving.
Ebony armboard (of course) and black lacquered steel tube body. Feet also in black and smooth this time,
The arm to be fitted is a Rega RB303.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/4b26f16cee405032f081ce6ff0e9e9c0.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/1af873c6d8124b3521819d8273c20833.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/30c17cc04d476fc1476e0bafb3352b95.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/275451e0cbefca83eb49dc18ced4352f.jpg
A one-off this one - a cage to keep little fingers away from
hot KT88 tubes. Welded steel construction with wire mesh fitted.
Carefully done so there are no sharp edges.
This took a bit of prototyping to get solid.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/7217152b6ce552f4aa3d11b003d85a0c.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/cebac5175ada7c1ed7ca9b13ce93fd02.jpg
Here's a brass balancing weight for a tonearm.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/94a90dcb4ecfae689bde13cc59615dfd.jpg
Magna Audio
17-06-2016, 07:12
Produced this one for a customer in Norway.
For a nice SL-1210 MKII using the uprated Ammonite Jelco armbase.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/7e2a45f02e835058dbd44fe2c1cc4988.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/ad65f1a48af97badaabdbdc51a1223e1.jpg
Here's a picture of the armobard and arm all mounted up that the customer sent me
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/a5e8c14e0044f1f77fef7b6e52134e75.jpg
He also wrote some feedback he was happy for me to share.
"Hi there!
Got the armboard and fittings safe and sound in the mail yesterday, a couple of minutes later it was easily installed on my deck.
All I can say - I am really stunned by your work and craftmanship. So perfect! I really love the look and feel of ebony wood used, excellent polish!
The immediate sonic upgrade from my aluminium armboard is really a step up in clarity. Bass is firmer, and therefore the soundstage is singing all the way up. Really worthwhile upgrade for my turntable!
Thank you a lot Steve for a perfect product and perfect service.
Have posted my best recommendations of your service on the local forums, so hopefully you will have some busy days ahead :-)"
Magna Audio
31-08-2016, 06:54
Here's a 195g counterweight for a very nice Origin Live modded arm.
This one was sent to New Zealand.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/c8ad443cc2870b3f1c51b0d908569300.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/68bfd72a75d36eb3d107c0270f3159db.jpg
This one is a lacquered aluminium armboard for a Voyd Valdi deck and SME arm. Threaded steel inserts for the SME blind mounting nuts.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/5359f88e2ec58f0a744d3a7db3309fed.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/ad6fda23bc8c8e9b78382b2b8895dbf4.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/5bd826c2dd2e51e725076d33eb20f3fe.jpg
I received this feedback
"Morning Steve,
Thanks for creating the armboard for me, its a lovely thing ☺
Should I need anything crafted in the future I shall let you know."
Next is an arm lift holder assembly in polished Stainless steel for the Audio Technica ATP-12 tonearm. This one for the UK.
(The tube is just for test purposes)
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/886b77ff46d23685343456c5f889b26b.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/2bffff7024f33f6ef694bc1601e7e976.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/324ecada133a05ef01a49434c8e30b94.jpg
Here's another arm lift assembly but this time for the AT-150 II arm. This one was sent to Austin Texas.
(The tube is just for test purposes)
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/bb813ce92384d0bf4582be3d80b1f12d.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/65ded997a8478be01df8d55c9796c8ca.jpg
Here's an SME fitting armboard in ebony that went to the San Jose USA.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/59c602651ea413bc58d1fd66cfdf14f6.jpg
Here it is fitted to the customers SL1200 deck
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/7eee630270749c006bd1bf4ff6d6871e.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/9193151af552655f97dc26abdf462420.jpg
I received this feedback about the improvement the armboard has made
"Hi Steve,
After one week testing and listening I can tell you what a magical combination is your arm board and SME tonearm is. All the irritating artifacts are gone. The music is simply flowing.
So thanks a lot for your work and all the best."
A more unusual one this, Small polished aluminium holders for a pair of super tweeters. The design was specified by the customer. They bolt under the existing speaker stands and can be angled to point the tweeters directly at the listening spot.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/1c9ef54e1ead383bad9e83649355aca8.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/bb63fa91ab92bfd02f5b86a8e00bf4ee.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/3817f4e41ec432a59b5b080943cebbf1.jpg
I've also got several armboards on the go right now.
If you would like something for your hifi to improve it or make an new configuration work, I'm happy to discuss.
Magna Audio
13-09-2016, 17:14
Here's a nice little project. A turned aluminium arm base. As per the original it has the Linn three hole fitting and 2, 120 deg opposed grub screws to securely hold the arm pillar.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/1762d4fee2c6879c5350b8e986d0dfe9.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/0a8c36e43dbd3895ce9492064f239393.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/97af624eaeff78c0ec448eb20ee3af47.jpg
Magna Audio
13-09-2016, 18:28
Will now be bored out to 18.5mm.
Magna Audio
13-09-2016, 22:31
First off an ebony armboard for the excellent Ammonite armbase upgrade for Jelco arms
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/25754a4dc934aeac1e2816ab2be86709.jpg
Feedback received so far: "I received the arm board today, and I am very pleased with it. The quality and finish are first class. "
Next up another Ammonite Jelco armboard but this time in African Blackwood for a SL-1200 Mk5G
Here are the pics the customer sent me
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/a2f41ee99ed0793593aecf2bd9b83b34.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/00a25e59f254e5890366e1ee79d2d83a.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/5702552684c82b6f972f359bfb618456.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/3f7fa210f85d0a28f43c939db12cdd5f.jpg
Then a Ebony armboard for a SME arm, again for a SL-1210.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/882d9dc591aee6f11f605da230db4cad.jpg
I received this feedback about the armboard,
"Just wanted to let you know that the armboard arrived last week (Wednesday), and I fitted it over the weekend (the fitting kit worked as planned with the mk5g). It’s a beautiful item, looks great in situ and bears no comparison to its metal predecessor (which was slightly nasty, despite not being cheap).
Initial listening suggests that my issue with occasionally wayward bass has been addressed (a pleasant and unexpected surprise) and that the sometimes hard edge to the mids and uppers has gone. Never quite sure what to expect when changing components (I so want to hear a difference...!), but the new armboard genuinely appears to have realised a notable improvement.
Thanks also for the speed of construction and your communications – been a pleasure from start to finish."
Magna Audio
19-10-2016, 14:26
Made this one for a Groovemaster MKII tonearm. Different arms can be accommodated by means of another collar.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/025b214f057724e2323000e396943a76.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/10120b29418db25f9fb8769ff8c6fc72.jpg
Here are a couple of Ebony armboards bound for France where they will grace a couple of SL-1210's using the Ammonite uprated armbases.
These were supplied direct to me from Ammonite and I fitted them for the customer.
Should sound the business :)
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/d44821934f445544717f8e6c4a0112f7.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/bc672625bef4775b7832b31ffe75ff52.jpg
Here's a solution to a failed Fidelity Research FR64s tone arm lift. Use a currently available Jelco lift, which is of nice quality. I made an adapter cylinder for the arm owner / customer who is in Singapore. Here it is being tested on my SP-10 / FR64s arm.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171007/c3bee374c133bf758f422cca639075e8.jpg
Magna Audio
29-10-2016, 14:58
This one is bound for New Zealand.
This one will be mounted from underneath by 3 bolts into brass threaded inserts I made which screw into the African Blackwood.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4409/35545604234_1032e1a23f_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4382/35545603824_1db31637ea_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4388/36381077415_71781da4a0_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4418/35545603174_eaed35faf7_z_d.jpg
Magna Audio
24-11-2016, 10:10
This one will be installed and used in Surrey
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5322/31266916696_7a9ed33726_b.jpg
I got this nice shot back from the customer.
Looks good! I bet it sounds good too!
https://c7.staticflickr.com/6/5792/30557130254_10e2e5ee1c_k.jpg
Magna Audio
26-11-2016, 08:38
Nice piece of ebony. this one is for a SME V, bound for the USA
Starts life as block turned round
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5515/31133094791_ac25fedb06_z.jpg
Then detail machining top and bottom to get it to fit the plinth / subplinth.
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5800/31133095651_1db5e9dfbe_b.jpg
With cutouts for plinth and subplinth and mounting holes etc. The fitting kit is popped in from above, making removal, for say fitting another arm or armboard, a doddle. All polished up (much rubbing down, and many layers of wax and lots of elbow grease).
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5625/31133093681_ca996209a7_z.jpg
Off to San Francisco - hope to get some on deck pics to share.
Magna Audio
28-11-2016, 20:57
The Ebony armboard for a Thorens TD125 MKII all finished with a Ammonite uprated Jelco 750D armbase.
This one will be installed and used in Surrey
https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5322/31266916696_7a9ed33726_b.jpg
Magna Audio
02-12-2016, 20:38
I got this nice shot back from the customer.
Looks good! I bet it sounds good too!
https://c7.staticflickr.com/6/5792/30557130254_10e2e5ee1c_k.jpg
RobbieGong
02-12-2016, 21:44
Looks fab Steve, ask the customer to maybe consider black Allen head screws to really take it to '11' :)
Magna Audio
05-12-2016, 19:32
Looks fab Steve, ask the customer to maybe consider black Allen head screws to really take it to '11' :)
:)
Magna Audio
11-01-2017, 17:18
Thanks Robbie! :)
Ebony record weight, turntable feet / armboard moutning top hat and 550Hz horns
Here's some of the latest products
An ebony record weight / puck that is bound for New Zealand
During turning
https://c2.staticflickr.com/1/773/32130538041_f073626cde_k.jpg
Finished
https://c3.staticflickr.com/1/630/32211419706_8fe01f8e16_b.jpg
Next up special turntable feet from blocks of ebony for a Verdier Vintage/Heritage Turntable
https://c3.staticflickr.com/1/695/32211429906_74e988de69_h.jpg
Stainless steel inserts for the spiked plinth
https://c3.staticflickr.com/1/738/31287242834_15e5d901f8_h.jpg
Finished
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/524/31287242584_26eb38e669_h.jpg
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/726/31287242024_db35c90eff_h.jpg
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/406/31287241664_ff7302e994_h.jpg
https://c5.staticflickr.com/1/779/31287240964_30dae78dbb_b.jpg
Here's a top hat / flange for a turntable under machining
https://c2.staticflickr.com/1/709/31439567713_fde1353813_h.jpg
Lastly a pair of 550Hz horns with Vitavox S2 compression driver fittings.
Turned from soft Redwood pine - this give the best possible sound.
These are off to the Ukraine.
https://c8.staticflickr.com/1/646/31439554303_e096f910e0_h.jpg
https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/517/32211410016_464fb1c030_h.jpg
https://c8.staticflickr.com/1/307/32130767991_2984fa2ee1_h.jpg
https://c7.staticflickr.com/1/597/31408790694_c1c30cb2fb_h.jpg
Next up will be more armboards ;)
Magna Audio
14-01-2017, 09:24
Ebony armboard for SL-1210 for use with the Jelco Ammonite uprated armbase
This one is bound for Canada
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/461/32179178451_165d40aab2_z_d.jpg
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/734/32179178341_1688d26633_z_d.jpg
Magna Audio
28-01-2017, 07:49
Here is an ebony armboard for the SL-1210 and a Sumiko MMT arm
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/710/31720780424_07c0cfc628_z_d.jpg
A 170g nylon insert double grub screw counterweight for the Rega R200 arm
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/504/32411855262_30201f6eae_z_d.jpg
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/591/32411855462_2684bd1f3e_z_d.jpg
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/419/32523841696_6b16af0710_z_d.jpg
coming up next a couple of stand alone armpods and copper L-brackets
Magna Audio
06-02-2017, 16:45
A couple of bespoke items made bound for Spain
Armboard in Ebony 8mm thick and brass ring 4mm thick. Bonded and screwed together.
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/691/31933966713_f1832819e3_z_d.jpg
A 3g half sleeve weight for use to increase the mass of a tonearm towards the cartridge end.
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/266/31933966163_d5a3a23c8f_z_d.jpg
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/685/32594659622_52b28a8665_z_d.jpg
Also an armboard in billet aluminium 22mm thick, 80mm diameter. Armhole for a Fidelity Research FR64s tonearm to fit a Kenwood KD-990
turntable.
Pictured here with my FR64s mounted up.
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/676/32594685042_28b0fa8c26_z_d.jpg
Showing the required offset
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/666/31904919464_b8e3575865_z_d.jpg
Magna Audio
08-02-2017, 16:52
This one is bound for Austria for a ClearAudio unify tonearm and will be used with a Jean Nantais Reference/Classic Lenco - this has a very high/thick plint arrangement hence the armpod height being 21.5 cm. +/- 5mm range is provided by the adjustable feet.
Usual very heavy mass so it will not move in use and will provide the perfect off plinth mounting for the tonearm.
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/481/32748537825_bc123f52d5_z_d.jpg
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/334/32707561616_4f9d9410b7_z_d.jpg
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/501/32748538675_3ab5a0e496_z_d.jpg
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/457/32707562296_fa3bd72dca_z_d.jpg
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/631/32748539085_762c56725e_z_d.jpg
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/290/32707562976_1989be21ce_z_d.jpg
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/298/32744465726_b82e25d73c_z_d.jpg
(Please excuse the quality on this last one)
Magna Audio
05-03-2017, 20:55
Here is a Technics SL-1210 ebony armboard for the USA. This one is for the SME M2-9 tone arm.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2904/32456658973_f8f73d8bf6_z_d.jpg
This one a Technics SL-1210 ebony armboard kitted out for the Micro Seiki tone arm and extra hole for the arm rest.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2845/32972537446_d6f4a7b54a_z_d.jpg
This one is a special for Hugo of Ammonite Audio.
I bet you can't guess what it's spec'd for!
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2121/32888107841_6decf24650_z_d.jpg
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2003/32858497062_3607cfdbd8_z_d.jpg
At nearly 200g in weight - It's an arm damper weight for the Jelco arm
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/752/32888243090_7327e9d261_z_d.jpg
Lastly a Counterweight with Nylon insert sleeve and double grub screws - 170g
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2687/32198605883_171ef2ee0a_z_d.jpg
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2576/32858530142_eb3ef81f89_z_d.jpg
Ammonite Audio
06-03-2017, 08:27
If anyone with a Jelco arm is a bit puzzled why placing a weight on top of the arm structure can possibly be a Good Thing, my advice is to try it. In the first instance, just use a spare counterweight (usually the heavy one that comes with the arm), and place it carefully on top of the damping knob. Adding mass in this way, to my ears, greatly enhances the depth of sound and musical flow. It's free to try in the first instance and you can always get Steve to make you a nice shiny one that sits more securely on top of the arm if you like the effect.
There's nothing pseudo-scientific or foo about why this works - one of the best ways of damping a resonant structure is to apply mass. That's all!
This tweak also works with my FR64S and I will get Steve to make me another weight to sit securely over the top of that arm
montesquieu
07-03-2017, 20:33
If anyone with a Jelco arm is a bit puzzled why placing a weight on top of the arm structure can possibly be a Good Thing, my advice is to try it. In the first instance, just use a spare counterweight (usually the heavy one that comes with the arm), and place it carefully on top of the damping knob. Adding mass in this way, to my ears, greatly enhances the depth of sound and musical flow. It's free to try in the first instance and you can always get Steve to make you a nice shiny one that sits more securely on top of the arm if you like the effect.
There's nothing pseudo-scientific or foo about why this works - one of the best ways of damping a resonant structure is to apply mass. That's all!
This tweak also works with my FR64S and I will get Steve to make me another weight to sit securely over the top of that arm
Interesting.
I noticed a while back that there was a Microseiki base weight on offer, that screwed in under the arm board - rather than the usual nut, this was a very chunky 5-6cm deep heavy weight, that screwed in to 'stabilise' the armbase (into which the arm is secured by two grub screws). What would be the physics of that? Any damping effect from adding mass there rather than on top?
My Ikeda armbase is exactly the same screw thread as the FR64S, also I guess the size means it could be done up quite tightly just by hand pressure. The Ortofon works a bit differently as the base is a sliding SME-type into a collar (the base secured to the armboard by four bolts, SME-style) so no potential for similar really. Neither are really amenable to adding mass from above ... the Ikeda has a round top over the bearing, so a bit harder to put a weight on top while the Ortofon has quite a narrow retaining ring for the bearing assembly.
http://i1181.photobucket.com/albums/x440/montesquieu61/RMG309-2_zpsszbvvalw.jpg
Magna Audio
09-03-2017, 17:05
This one for Peter. Will be in the post tomorrow.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3738/32961297880_f967231ce9_z_d.jpg
Magna Audio
09-03-2017, 17:06
Nice looking and I'm sure nice sounding setup Tom.
I bet I could make a domed one to suit ;)
Interesting.
I noticed a while back that there was a Microseiki base weight on offer, that screwed in under the arm board - rather than the usual nut, this was a very chunky 5-6cm deep heavy weight, that screwed in to 'stabilise' the armbase (into which the arm is secured by two grub screws). What would be the physics of that? Any damping effect from adding mass there rather than on top?
My Ikeda armbase is exactly the same screw thread as the FR64S, also I guess the size means it could be done up quite tightly just by hand pressure. The Ortofon works a bit differently as the base is a sliding SME-type into a collar (the base secured to the armboard by four bolts, SME-style) so no potential for similar really. Neither are really amenable to adding mass from above ... the Ikeda has a round top over the bearing, so a bit harder to put a weight on top while the Ortofon has quite a narrow retaining ring for the bearing assembly.
http://i1181.photobucket.com/albums/x440/montesquieu61/RMG309-2_zpsszbvvalw.jpg
Magna Audio
09-03-2017, 17:12
This one is for Hugo's FR64s.
Pictured atop my FR64s ;)
I will give it a listen this evening, before posting off to Hugo tomorrow.
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3693/32529626313_3a066dbf18_z_d.jpg
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/703/33303045716_01bb4c9878_z_d.jpg
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/746/33303045396_1f02536bcc_z_d.jpg
Interesting idea ... hope you'll post your findings :thumbsup:
Magna Audio
17-03-2017, 13:37
SL-1210 Ebony armboard with SME mounting
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3680/32647383594_7d9f8a3abe_z_d.jpg
SL-1210 Ebony armboard with Micro Seiki armbase mounted
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3865/32647383744_9ae8130271_z_d.jpg
Jelco arm damper weight
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2931/32647435744_d943f122ea_z_d.jpg
https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3880/32647435504_a65b21c329_z_d.jpg
Dubster68
17-03-2017, 16:18
Ok
I have just tried this exact mod that Hugo started and it does give a sonic difference on my SL1210 with a SA-750 arm.
The difference I am hearing is not massive but definitely a lot more deepness to the bass notes. So pretty happy with that for a small outlay. Also if anything it looks pretty good in stainless.
Thanks Hugo for the heads up and also Steve for sorting it all out quickly to a high standard:)
http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c25/Mick1B/IMG_4568.jpg (http://s24.photobucket.com/user/Mick1B/media/IMG_4568.jpg.html)
Magna Audio
09-04-2017, 07:02
Nice photo of the your deck and damper weight.
This one is bound for Singapore
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2882/33926100995_2826b21a41_z_d.jpg
Magna Audio
09-04-2017, 07:10
Thorens TD-125 armboards are popular lately :) This one is with a SME cutout pattern
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2889/33926442925_2fc0b19a32_z_d.jpg
Magna Audio
20-04-2017, 09:23
Here are some shots of an interesting speaker binding post project. These will go on a bespoke amp.
OFC copper, ebony plywood (I fabricated this using my vacuum bag press) and brass. Nice combo
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2884/33769884050_1456718e96_z_d.jpg
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2906/34154823515_e79322de1d_z_d.jpg
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2812/33769883640_5f0f409202_z_d.jpg
A Jelco arm damper weight pictured on the customers deck. This was the one that went to Singapore recently.
Nice to see my ebony armboard and Ammonite uprated Jelco armbase resplendent there too.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2926/34113804846_73ac3264fc_z_d.jpg
Fits neatly under the cover too.
https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2831/33769875800_88ff752f4c_z_d.jpg
Here's the feedback about the damper weight sound change.
"Hi Steve,
The damper arrived earlier this week, but was travelling and I have just installed it on my Jelco arm yesterday.
I am not good at describing sound, not a night and day improvement, very subtle but definitely sound better with the damper than without it.
Thanks."
Magna Audio
18-05-2017, 15:26
Recent projects and products
Bespoke cable holder for Robbie.
Machined birch ply that has been ebony stained and satin lacquered
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4178/34605083901_339e3364f0_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4175/34696329126_1f5b7a4b23_z_d.jpg
SL1210 MkII ebony armboard for the USA. Shuggie / Ammonite uprated Jelco armbase fitted all ready to go.
This will replace a stock arm! That's going to be some upgrade..
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4190/34696345816_5d4d3464d7_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4161/34696344936_22ff897d83_z_d.jpg
RobbieGong
18-05-2017, 15:39
Thanks Steve, Great work as always.
If anyone is wondering what the block of wood with four grooves is for.
It is to provide a platform / support for my speaker cable to lay in at the point it meets the speaker wire inputs at the rear of my Sansui AU 919.
I bare wire into the original spring clips which whilst adequate dont have a vice like grip.
The wire / cable entry point at the rear of my rack meant my heavy speaker cable was coming up and weighing / pulling down from the spring clip inputs so,
I got to designing this aid which Steve has produced perfectly.
I will drill a couple of holes for the speaker cable to enter the rack parallel to the rear of the amp speaker inputs where the cable will sit in each groove of the block as it enters the spring clips.
This block will be glued in the perfect position at the back of the rack, behind the amp at speaker cable entry point providing support for the cable, no more weighing down or pull - Happy days !!! :)
Magna Audio
16-06-2017, 16:52
First up is a special sized and weighted for a SAEC arm. This one went to Sweden.
First unpolished
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4275/35305259046_5d75139602_z_d.jpg
Then polished up
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4216/34534809393_1edaf1607f_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4256/34534809693_887f76aebe_z_d.jpg
This next next one is a bespoke armplate slider in aluminium for Hugo of Ammonite Audio fame :)
This is for a Reed 3P tonearm and can be seen and heard at the North West Audio Show where the Kenwood/Reed3P combination will be showing off a Miyajima Shilabe stereo cartridge. More details here https://www.facebook.com/ammoniteaudio/
10mm billet aluminium plates, 80mm diameter
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4227/34957642640_0afe0f6b56_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4218/35177944952_8eb553c9df_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4281/34957640240_95c4e0c265_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4233/35177943762_daeba5210e_z_d.jpg
This next one is a headshell repair. The threads were a bit pulled so I milled them out and replaced them with steel threaded inserts.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4271/35177947992_1fa6dca722_z_d.jpg
Now for some Tannoy GRF replica cabs in premium birch ply, 21mm throughout. These are to my own design to be a bit taller and narrower to
be easier to accommodate into rooms. I design them to retain the original back loaded horn volumes, so they sound identical to the regular shaped GRF replica cabs I also build.
These are bound for Staffordshire UK. They can be palletized and shipped overseas by air within Europe, or sea to the rest of the world.
Here are some pics of the construction. More pics to follow as they are completed.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4214/35177975202_714b9cc0b8_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4196/34534835513_ef75f0372a_z_d.jpg
Finally an armpod bound for Canada. First requirement was for a deck that was of 9.5 cm plinth height + / - 1cm via the adjustable feet. This was added to in height for flexibility of deck use by means of a lower extension piece.
This is bolted into the top piece for perfect stability.
Both sections are 4" aluminium tube, lead filled and weight approx 7kgs. Very stable and solid.
A Reed tonearm will be fitted to the ebony armboard.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4253/34957651760_0e4a5ee8bc_z_d.jpg
Magna Audio
16-06-2017, 16:53
Re Robbie's cable support block
Thanks Robbie. Glad it fits the bill, nicely.
Magna Audio
19-06-2017, 11:19
Here's a pic of the base of the 2 stage armpod showing the long bolts that secure the 2 halves as one when in tall mode.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4278/34593051413_1ff004624f_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4237/35277485571_1aeeb4e357_z_d.jpg
Magna Audio
19-06-2017, 18:59
The Big Tannoy cabs get a Driver test fit.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170619/1ab6cb383d10d07a8b7e43f8cbbe2489.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170619/32b075283a88d1e20f01653559e93b25.jpg
Sent from my Moto G (5) using Tapatalk
Magna Audio
29-06-2017, 19:25
Here's a pair of speakers I recently made that were delivered by Pallet transport to Stafford today.
They are already unpacked and installed in a dedicated music room.
These feature tear drop baffles in the throat of the back loaded horn for bass cleaness, internally mounted Tannoy crossovers and switching boxes (after market X/O's can then be fitted easily) with no slots cut out in the rear panels.
Finished in clear spray lacquer for an attractive tough finish.
They are pictured here in my workshop (no fancy photo shoot I'm afraid).
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4272/35228538350_69deb6a35f_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4286/35228538990_4f17a8c820_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4056/35575837816_cc03ab9880_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4235/35228538840_f896f9b587_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4173/35575839006_59cacd45d6_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4010/35228539710_0bc0cea769_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4250/35447114272_3ba4f7f523_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4101/35575838606_2db0b4e31f_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4269/34774258054_9b44b70511_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4230/35228539340_8f53d73359_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4239/35228538480_094d4d464d_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4056/35575837816_cc03ab9880_z_d.jpg
Magna Audio
30-06-2017, 10:54
These beauties will be off to Canada shortly by UPS.
They will be used with Reed 3P arms in various plinth and deck configurations.
This round disc 125mm in diameter and 10mm thick if in African Blackwood
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4070/35626935075_1dce8351a5_z_d.jpg
This Square one is 150mm and 10mm thick in Ebony
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4014/35587558056_f238c357a4_z_d.jpg
Finally a pic of all three items
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4277/35496559041_6312a9537f_z_d.jpg
Magna Audio
07-07-2017, 06:49
I'll be making two of these for a USA customer. Polished brass - nice.
One a 4" diameter pod and one a 3" diameter.
http://theartofsound.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=20740&d=1499409795
More to follow
Magna Audio
11-07-2017, 09:28
The customer was interested in the Ammonite Audio Jelco uprated armbase which I procured and fitted all ready to go.
http://theartofsound.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=20741&d=1499410543
Magna Audio
21-07-2017, 07:28
A couple of armboards bound for Hong Kong.
One is for the very popular Reed 3P arm and the other an SME fitting. Both are fitted with blind nuts for both armboard and armbase fitting.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4309/35219824244_ef3f1fefec_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4320/35926382581_1ea9ceea27_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4307/35670166610_dc53d50aac_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4306/36059576185_b537a8c6c9_z_d.jpg
Next up is an Ebony armboard for a Technics SL-1210 deck to fit the lovely Fidelity Research FR64x tonearm
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4305/35926344831_e2c1c809e7_o_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4292/35926345891_d9f4487fb2_o_d.jpg
Here's an update on the armpod in polished brass for another Reed3P arm. This one is for the USA.
Again blind nuts are used for the armbase mounting.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4324/35250952053_91e459ff4b_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4296/35219756674_2af9390a82_o_d.jpg
Instead of composite spikes this one has cork disc feet providing cushioning for the 3 brass adjustable feet. Pod weight is circa 7kgs.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4298/35926462181_29f1ac1337_o_d.jpg
During the build of the above, I was asked to add another smaller armpod for an existing armboard the customer had.
Again nice and heavy with cork disc feet. The large M10 bolt will secure the 30mm thick armboard.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4313/35250951613_fd21c9b598_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4309/35219905694_88221c3eab_o_d.jpg
Here they are relative to each other before final armboard drillings
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4304/36059790355_9e108ea0d4_o_d.jpg
Magna Audio
02-08-2017, 14:22
Counterweight for Fidelity Research FR24 - off to France
This was was requested at 47g and fits a 16.5mm armstub diameter. A nylon tipped grubscrew was also specified.
Machined to the weight
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4417/36288920796_6b6b3dbf8c_z_d.jpg
Finished article
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4369/36288917306_a918e50cd0_o_d.jpg
Nylon tipped grubscrew
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4413/35497238964_d60fbd90fe_z_d.jpg
Magna Audio
11-08-2017, 16:42
First a record puck in Gunmetal with an ebony base. This one was requested at 1.5kgs and features ebony cores set into the gunmetal.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4400/36335460372_b1fb730789_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4388/36503783345_380a4f22ed_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4383/36503782035_9efbe1ee0e_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4358/36503781615_f240c43584_z_d.jpg
Next up a case / sleeve surround in solid oak with turned aluminium feet for a Truth amp.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4359/36335448732_917001648f_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4382/36457329156_b415bc3933_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4389/36457328376_68db2cf43b_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4358/36457327726_d8a7bc7038_z_d.jpg
Magna Audio
17-08-2017, 07:56
This is from the customer of the Ebony / gunmetal record puck
"Hi, it has arrived and is working great.
Sound stage has improved a lot, much more focused and detailed.
I was using Stillpoint before this and your puck beats it hands down. I am using it on a Micro Seiki RX1500.
Thanks producing such a beautiful piece. It's a piece of art."
Magna Audio
25-08-2017, 18:34
Platine Verdier armblock total refurb and fitting of Jelco Ammonite Uprated armbase
This Platine Verdier block needed to be modded to fit the Ammonite uprated Jelco armbase.
It had seen quite a bit of action with various armbases..
Here it is as was
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4385/36403195180_9266276c85_z_d.jpg
Here it is refurbed and lacquered in gloss black with armbase fitted ready to go.
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4439/36403195720_30df24792b_z_d.jpg
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4375/36752801356_b4f6cf710a_z_d.jpg
Magna Audio
02-10-2017, 16:03
8 brass feet for a bespoke amp and phono stagehttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/dd2ad1949780e3f1ac499e6d37bf36d7.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/0bbd19c1d0235fc585442f179a0b6e36.jpg
Magna Audio
02-10-2017, 16:06
Spacer in aluminium, locating pin in stainless steel and collate in birch plywood.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/954c6b1718070e6c6be94ca9eaf1d54e.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/7b5899d20a5b803b814e853194decbc3.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/11b3a3cad0bb99d4587cf87d1f1d8bf6.jpg
Magna Audio
02-10-2017, 16:16
Here's a bespoke copper case for a Audio Note L3 phono stage I'm making.
It's work in progress still.
Custom brushed / burnished lacquered finish.
Bespoke phono sockets, turned ebony feet and selector knob.
Very nice 99.999% pure silver well shielded signal cable throughout.
Installing 3 input phono socket sets and a nice selector switch with turned ebony knob.
I'm moving the electrics over and upgrading the components in the signal path.
The power stuff will be soldered on directly - no more automotive push ons :)
Changing the red LED to blue :)
More pics when completed.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/ca72a66f380d26f6d3b16db28421e7c3.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/b6c3fe44498a141ad8d77251d027c8e7.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/3a4377688d41081ee18e952368687b8e.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/19bea387929f19bbc75dd896fd6bb466.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/0fdd7d4ff600c747791979f46f632ff5.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/a1a924db1da67fc33d4823b2e52bfb26.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/5854e7629a795030d9687568f83d5585.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/f5d8a2b1ce9f9e4a174aa492fb18bbe4.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/3992b08192abcad267ee11afa8da564a.jpg
Magna Audio
08-10-2017, 20:28
Now this long thread is also up to date! Yay :)
montesquieu
09-10-2017, 00:35
Here's a bespoke copper case for a Audio Note L3 phono stage I'm making.
It's work in progress still.
Custom brushed / burnished lacquered finish.
Bespoke phono sockets, turned ebony feet and selector knob.
Very nice 99.999% pure silver well shielded signal cable throughout.
Installing 3 input phono socket sets and a nice selector switch with turned ebony knob.
I'm moving the electrics over and upgrading the components in the signal path.
The power stuff will be soldered on directly - no more automotive push ons :)
Changing the red LED to blue :)
More pics when completed.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/ca72a66f380d26f6d3b16db28421e7c3.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/b6c3fe44498a141ad8d77251d027c8e7.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/3a4377688d41081ee18e952368687b8e.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/19bea387929f19bbc75dd896fd6bb466.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/0fdd7d4ff600c747791979f46f632ff5.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/a1a924db1da67fc33d4823b2e52bfb26.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/5854e7629a795030d9687568f83d5585.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/f5d8a2b1ce9f9e4a174aa492fb18bbe4.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171002/3992b08192abcad267ee11afa8da564a.jpg
Love this Steve. Hmm I have an AN kit dac that I bet would respond to similar treatment.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Magna Audio
09-10-2017, 07:32
Yes, the customer reports a great sound stage and very resolved. Hearing things not heard before and very quiet when not playing.
I'm going to copper case / upgrade the SUT next ;)
Magna Audio
12-10-2017, 15:44
Here are some bespoke OFC copper phono sockets I made for Simon
I tested the M8 threads to destruction, torquing them up. They are plenty strong enough.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/776ad53d379c8069cafae9b8ab46bce0.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/89192365d7560aef1b469278540abcb2.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/64988d7517055abe9342d0939246bbae.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/b0c63cd3ceef7a0e12bbff39ce4bbd51.jpg
Tested with a variety of phono plugs.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/59c13817ac31b81618bf2dff6566f654.jpg
Installed on Simon's amp.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/9491beb89d32796975f3b181f5af9cf2.jpg
Magna Audio
12-10-2017, 16:14
Bound for New Zealand this one.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/955885e5a8be690660f414197a329fd0.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/141d994302d7eafb8cc1da92df340f29.jpg
Magna Audio
12-10-2017, 16:19
8 x brass feet for a couple of amps for Simon. M6 threaded / nuts for easy chassis mounting.
Polished surrounds. These will have have felt or cork pads.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/43b299a43f5db5331ea4a1511c90ef9b.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/48bc67a34e647f7515ee2abdd3bed74d.jpg
Magna Audio
12-10-2017, 16:24
SL-1210 armboard in ebony for Rega RB300
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/486533f8b2c957d71334f8cd92bc952f.jpg
Magna Audio
12-10-2017, 16:38
An ebony armboard disc fit a Trio KD-500 turntable.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/820581bf8bb4039194c3d1c1bd09bd53.jpg
SME fitting with threaded inserts for mounting the arm.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/e464224879add9f83d6c17dc161b20ce.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/c6bd541834de40a93feeb1f815bd00ab.jpg
Magna Audio
12-10-2017, 20:55
My solid ebony version of Micro Seiki AX-4G Turntable Armboard for SME 12"
Over 1" thick with a gunmetal bush to ensure solid clamping.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/fe40869b6683338d0e95d859a83ffc1f.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/2949664e4850d9210813886bdc027fa7.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/b19abe1b7ed47209385830d0b2050552.jpg
Alongside the 9" original
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/159db858d0d3ea9676b46310d3ceb97d.jpg
Clamped on a test pillar.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/d703fd4d39c97cdce764cc16da145f1e.jpg
Magna Audio
14-10-2017, 12:48
Latest ebony armboard for a 'The Wand' tonearm.
As you can see with a spindle to pivot distance of 241mm, this one fits an SL-1210 just.
Set up with threaded inserts for mounting from underneath.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171014/c861271bd501ad3b770380b5f1cee6c9.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171014/596b5266092a65e27892ef9ba7d9f59a.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171014/2a42d7387e2a293dc02b829cea170981.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171014/e7468c3f6566c7d85ef4bf3279ebc179.jpg
Will be of to New Zealand soon (where The Wand tonearm comes from).
This ebony armboard will replace the thin metal plate pictured below..
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171014/eb5f1d617f1afd79369c453595d25309.jpg
Magna Audio
20-10-2017, 12:19
Just started a copper case for an Audio Note Step Up Transformer.
I'm retaining the front and rear panels that show all the settings and what plug goes where.
This will be a totally enclosed copper case with turned ebony feet and my copper phono sockets.
More to follow..
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171020/824837963f4cc61b143bf9ccae359b44.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171020/c27bc39daa8954a38e12895f74d8a484.jpg
Magna Audio
30-10-2017, 13:14
An update on the Audio Note Step Up Transformer case and my copper phono sockets project.
I turned ebony feet for it too.
It is about 20 years old featuring silver wiring and windings.
It needed a little TLC on the black fascia and knobs too.
Here it is all done.
I tested it thoroughly on my rig. Sounded great.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/ddd1063eefdff3efcc61ffb3f0b610d8.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/4d38375cac2df8a6bd082f26b20792ad.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/6933f86c5b5cca7718d237af76946f57.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/2c3d11249a78f0c6ef36715d16d1a93b.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/98b30b08de68d4ace5f634bc6c5317b2.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/20dd26fa796b00fa057ad80c871e5ff4.jpg
Magna Audio
30-10-2017, 16:43
Beautiful African Blackwood SL-1210 armboard bound for Aus.
To be fitted with uprated Ammonite Jelco armbase.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/afe554373f99d4eb32ea75b869e5b6b6.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/39a0c91dfb41e1d3b55101d93c40e63f.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/e9742b9d5babf5dc71a8b822a6054e28.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/932e38d3483653267a81f6be367e46a2.jpg
Magna Audio
22-11-2017, 11:48
This one in stealth black to match the deck and its surroundings.
First the ebony armboard and collar.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171122/c992afc7c91bb2ba6ceb5a25cfb09fca.jpg
The completed item. This one has extra height adjustment range via the long extending feet.
I will be making different armboards for the customer in due course to accommodate other arms.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171122/368a2ae72f82871b980a2ec3b263444c.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171122/3818f52be2959dbff4b71c305b19d1f2.jpg
Magna Audio
22-11-2017, 12:01
Next up a range of projects for a customer in London.
This armbase had seen some wear with the arm pillar retaining screw thread stripped.
The original solution was not ideal.
I made a new slightly bigger thread for a grub screw, a second one to beef it up and a third grub screw to properly retain the outer collar.
Should be good for years to come now.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171122/c519a43633222a6b33b78f762b212ac1.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171122/9f374f25025ee5bb9fa9a3a4c99d6840.jpg
Next a Counterweight sleeve to fit over the original and increase the mass by 118g
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171122/03d7794d4b265763410a8d1709c8c397.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171122/507d46e66fe1f94024bcdd28c3529e67.jpg
Lastly, a rework of the recent armboard I made.
The tail turned out to be too long. I shortened it to fit. No charge.
The customer had tried to enlarge the SME slot to take a different armbase.
I refurbed it to improve the looks and function with a slight slot for adjustment
Restored
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171122/0f777cb6d3817670551ef44822e8f18e.jpg
With larger slot. The SME armbase will still fit of course and cover the hole nicely.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171122/2ea50497d5861840fe0d3283f035acf8.jpg
Magna Audio
02-01-2018, 11:43
This African blackwood armboard is now residing in Australia. See pics on customers deck.
This was supplied complete with the Ammonite audio uprated armbase.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180102/730b8e3e72ba4be2e5a9d8ffa4472f13.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180102/a24c68ac451001d1cb33abc6c55457fb.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180102/fd74ed2024c7edf487f1a8c0ddb74909.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180102/70037962363d8196844f905675599a0b.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180102/21288f9182c319d31033e704a563a61d.jpg
Magna Audio
02-01-2018, 12:03
This one is a 15mm thick disc armboard in ebony for a Nakamichi Turntable and Alphason HR-100 MCS arm.
The customer supplied a template, shown overlaying the actual armboard.
The last shot is of it all mounted up on the customer deck.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180102/a7e89a7907de2a83b8b6a4ac1098bac9.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180102/685c2cca2dfaf0c2ae888bc7ebaaa3c0.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180102/8710fc77881272658c2633ecee6aea87.jpg
Magna Audio
23-01-2018, 11:01
A solid ebony armboard for a Technics SL-1210 deck and Jelco SA-750D arm fitting.
Also 3 solid ebony headshell spacers (5 / 4 / 3mm).
Bound for California USA.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180123/a1687aaa0536df4c3f7d08aa3034f33c.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180123/7b7437a0bcd1d98ba7e3f5894e0c5055.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180123/07f426e13077de73aa666a4888b52f53.jpg
Magna Audio
23-01-2018, 13:25
Hi All,
Just to let you know that the Magna Audio Products website has been revamped for a cleaner look and feel.
as ever it can be found here:
http://fosworld.wixsite.com/magna-audio
Magna Audio
30-01-2018, 08:50
Beautiful solid ebony record puck / weight with Tungsten core to increase the mass. Weight 1.25kgs
From block to finished puck.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180130/bdca0c537eb4bf5ba46b5836c0f0cd54.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180130/5b34de0833925a994c565024a77b07b1.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180130/a29365db470f0216b012bea58e1ea737.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180130/095a5b6aae66b19c646281f5c3edd273.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180130/b47bac840b567dbc83a65b7f6e4dc567.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180130/0739b26cbbcba4ca353731a7d53ac5cd.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180130/721a595ba9125a802ca51e5e9da05c90.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180130/f920e70f930b41db62b0d3f6e17f608b.jpg
Magna Audio
31-01-2018, 18:14
Here is a bit of a make over and fix up project for a Heybrook TT2 turntable.
First a new solid ebony armboard, 18mm thick with the 4 mounting points.
Fitting is a Rega RB arm.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180131/709df29898c17b671e35dcc081d8a00b.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180131/9623aa9aab580ceb33d1226a6f20076d.jpg
A solid ebony replacement for the aluminium spacer ring
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180131/12f86d55b021c3c886af7da17e196715.jpg
An extra heavy tungsten counterweight with nylon damping insert
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180131/4e4497045da1bc935f6477723683ce9a.jpg
These turntables originally suffered from a well documented problem of the armboard mounting area not being level with the platter.
I carefully shimmed the armboard so that it was perfectly true to the platter in all planes.
Ready to go.
Magna Audio
01-02-2018, 21:10
First up a set of counterweights for a Zeta tonearm in bronze. These are to add greater balancing range to the counterweight
shell / carrier into which they bolt.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180201/c6b56b56d9b2a535f5b974fbb252aaed.jpg
Then a replacement aluminium knob for a Pioneer turntable.
The new one is on the right.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180201/48b03f53ee80533fe8d25256f1f5cbd0.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180201/8ab6c1fa2199c5ecc6830dbe8851c08c.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180201/e4690fa8a9bb93bcdcfa73ed9e374fb0.jpg
Magna Audio
20-02-2018, 16:42
Ebony headshell spacer pieces made for Montesquieu.
They don't look like much but he was looking for a specific thickness, thinner than others available and keeping it as light as possible.
Of course being ebony they'll sound divine :)
Shown in my test headshell and then installed in Montesquieu's headshell with the SPU Royal N
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180220/d0e4f9472244b47a7d125f5c5b1f2142.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180220/76b838d2776e83ee48158b55d6cb3a0f.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180220/042ddf7ef501b315757894e9ffe74368.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180220/ab21b2cfdec138d6889fd2268e01c2b5.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180220/05ce0239c6bcfa62c4d39a12ba9c15f1.jpg
WESTLOWER
25-02-2018, 11:33
Steve you have PM
Thanks
Magna Audio
02-03-2018, 17:40
The first part of a multi faceted upgrade and facelift for a Technics SL-1210.
A solid ebony armboard and quick change fitting kit for an SME 309 arm. More to follow.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180302/ff6a9dedc183cf217e7bd45fe904ccb8.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180302/b2d6bfac29efadf74a28be035ed460f6.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180302/e3642dd2e394e5b09579acf40888a015.jpg
Magna Audio
02-03-2018, 17:59
A solid ebony armboard for a Technics SL-1210 M5G, bound for the USA.
Fitting for a Jelco armbase.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180302/d7ca3561f0541940b35e7c9a2688622c.jpg
Magna Audio
08-03-2018, 16:41
A pair of ebony armboards. One for Graham Phantom series 2 tonearm and one for a Fidelity Research FR64x tonearm.
Fitted to a plywood plinthed Garrard 401.
This will enable quick arm changes.
They replace low density plywood armboards.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180308/2fea82053d0bc2a85658af08f500b80f.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180308/8fa34ae1bcc171fdeed5a870fefefc85.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180308/02d4aabbeb790ac00c53cbfc7d3ab61b.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180308/37161d2ecfc7a93f8959f00af0c0750d.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180308/32c0f6937a94a70d32f62206a0aaa0e1.jpg
Sent from my Moto G (5) using Tapatalk
Magna Audio
12-03-2018, 08:21
Here is a solid ebony record puck I've just made with a cast lead ingot ring incorporated inside to mass it up.
Mass circa 600g
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180312/f7985ea3019485700a68cd38daf06827.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180312/984d7726dd50455856a51cc2e5797962.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180312/0326bb5bb6584f82a26e22ce67e367b3.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180312/9998e06ebd35ffa0889f2ac3a4e79d76.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180312/200b9c8ba377c350eed2182034d05c39.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180312/7b2e4a402c89e69bd5bcf02522550bf2.jpg
Magna Audio
12-03-2018, 22:51
More shots on deck..
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180312/059f646b271d4db2b1fc9d47744001ea.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180312/99062289ca031c99cfa8a36513b945df.jpg
Magna Audio
14-03-2018, 17:38
Custom African Blackwood headshell spacer for Montesquieu.
2.5mm thick.
I'll be making a couple of copper headshell weights for Montesquieu next.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180314/23f243b1fd997204a85d0344b71986f5.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180314/99a97df8a0bd83340cdb0e26fc5f9f89.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180314/346a0b7f51a382ece94f654caeac5013.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180314/60a56a4638a425bdbad42dceab6838ca.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180314/eb66969e78c6e0c462ce88c091aaccd2.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180314/2b71c05b0c18ac1add8c93a4f6691f6c.jpg
Magna Audio
16-03-2018, 16:47
Headshell weights for a low compliance set up for Montesquieu.
1.2mm thick copper at 5g.
1.5mm thick copper at 7g.
1mm thick lead at 7g.
The lead is a bonus fun one to see if I could do it and get as thin as possible.
Only tungsten, gold or platinum would be thinner.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180316/ca0b7bac3429dc671574378a29f5f9e6.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180316/d5d65531e7522262b192bb967383a8cc.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180316/4c641347dcc41d975150ed7644461bc4.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180316/8e83988b978d9d7089febae46862569e.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180316/966d6d6ed2fe10f99a03d9f28316e7ff.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180316/0786303426cadb5f4bda5c2b0256576a.jpg
Magna Audio
18-03-2018, 15:28
Latest ebony record puck / weight.
This one is 1.25kgs.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180318/a9e2086625817062afeaa3457d98ba24.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180318/c2fa4a83899a5d9ee0dd24bcf25b7fae.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180318/c2417fdb68203ab71e78b55557e9a6b5.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180318/ac69b1650068c08d2ffe4e9343254a99.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180318/f2b7652a70a83a23306ae14d79a854b1.jpg
Magna Audio
20-03-2018, 11:46
8 turned brass feet for a couple of big amplifiers. These are 50mm diameter turned from solid brass. Ready to fit.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180320/5a52cfbabd9793ccb3fba560cfa30d51.jpg.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180320/382354f0b1f2173b2b97f59ea4f585ba.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180320/54d6982a7fd4453f1eb53f866d99431e.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180320/3ba75a42bb93eebbe7a558e3df10ea7a.jpg
Magna Audio
28-03-2018, 08:44
Here's a pic of the heavyweight ebony puck I recently made. Pictured on the customer's lovely turntable.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180328/24e9b0bd9f42166a3cece0d5a72137a3.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180328/96243db71b703b2f15dbc869e4d8d526.jpg
julesd68
28-03-2018, 09:12
Looks stunning on that deck Steve. Absolute craftsmanship. :youtheman:
Magna Audio
28-03-2018, 14:16
Thanks!
Magna Audio
07-04-2018, 12:37
Tannoy GRF replica's on the go.
These are made from premium quality 21mm thick birch plywood throughout.
The taller narrower footprint to my own design makes fitting them in normal sized rooms much easier.
They retain the same volume and back loaded horn design (computer modelled) as the standard rectangular GRF cabinets.
The vastly better construction materials vs the originals make for a sublime sound.
Birch plywood cut and machined to very high precision.
Prepped to very fine finish.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180407/2bdbf6029d0bfead57b19de77ec71305.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180407/8dd760fcfd09b8316b5548f7cbccac7c.jpg
More to follow
Magna Audio
08-04-2018, 14:24
Under construction
Front baffles first. Internal baffles and tear drop baffle in.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180408/febb0f6b9cbf49f0815d4b131722df0c.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180408/cc1f90e329540824392d4c38b837919c.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180408/f85ef620c91dc47934535f0c44e89414.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180408/f0481625245d5375588d913623a756ad.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180408/78247c70197c27e6fcd96a6617608287.jpg
Magna Audio
09-04-2018, 12:54
Coming along nicely.
All felted and removable rear / inner panel braced.
Next up plinth, full length black grilles, crossover upgrade, fitting and finishing.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180409/e202ee69f5e53fe7a2388258ba6bc935.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180409/8da4ce0cb689c5af840e3635e2dc30da.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180409/a64c645b21f0bb20c352bc2405df7bca.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180409/70e2ceff1e80a92fe6184f290680f3ae.jpg
Magna Audio
11-04-2018, 12:23
I've also been busy with armboards.
The ever popular ebony for Technics SL-1210 and SME arm.
In reverse order of construction.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180411/cd1b3e538935a373053a25ebda7247ea.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180411/39b571dde9e4e4481b0c85bdd18cce99.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180411/c2b352c0fbda3ceb31b1544eb72c4cca.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180411/50f3612cdcd1bba085eeb6b0fc9e6733.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180411/e72e1ce11886c004c33d1f0be13c923c.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180411/4ab3a7b8e1037db7065b98d768a49599.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180411/efd35b53a2d1244b1caf6f5f81566856.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180411/a5288420a8b459a5e545e6abbfdd881e.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180411/e59afc627adea3c3bcf07b2f9fb7c178.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180411/eb742a7ea286d576ce4f6b8f52acc724.jpg
Magna Audio
16-04-2018, 15:56
This one is a 7kg heavyweight!
Usual ebony armboard and also an ebony base this time.
Jelco armbase fitting. The height adjustable feet have felt pads this time.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180416/636b173b8b440caa2569f96a51f3a05c.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180416/edc589f77830749d416c0277a4854cad.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180416/f507a1433034f084a09a1ac9b19d27f1.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180416/14c413f430889eebe2dd5d16dc61f00e.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180416/70b1b1a962c3ab11c3905e8f00bae19e.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180416/ddb3ec6104b7617a466fe3eeea31e630.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180416/2815f849981e667b8b02943d369120f5.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180416/b56e4154e8b91c5780a96c74b7193bbe.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180416/87ce50f2de21dd0320f589212040f00c.jpg
Magna Audio
19-04-2018, 08:36
Here's another Mikro Seiki AX-4G armboard in solid ebony.
SME fitting with threaded inserts to take the armbase bolts.
Bronze bush to clamp to the armboard pillar.
Extra thick at the armbase end. You can't have too much lovely sounding ebony..
Pictured here with the old metal armboard as a stand :)
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180419/e7d6120c1bcf4e509304879b69e49651.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180419/fe594e70be06f3e063dfe806462c228b.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180419/47e07e16a7ec50c9bdf1d8b63ede66f7.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180419/c76bf44a5c7a3a39b86e966518f384ce.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180419/10f4502330e9947129d94bdeee5d5a20.jpg
Magna Audio
25-04-2018, 16:16
Here's a project I've been working on.
It involves a Technics SL-1210, ebony, lots of upgrades and fitting a SME 309 arm.
First I wanted to test the concept of applying ebony veneer so I used my scabby old SL-1200 deck as a guinea pig.
I use that plinth/sub-plinth and base to make the armboards and get the spindle to pivot distance right.
I trialled glue first until I found the right one to give an excellent bond and not bleed through.
Pictured here with the ebony armboard and 309 arm.
I'm having to do something different with the pitch control area. Thought of an ebony surround as a first test. I might be able to do a flush veneer though.
The veneer is just using scraps so don't judge it too hard.
The final deck project should be something special.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180425/d2ed0b876b0b140f69bbd4191a6067d0.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180425/4d2883c2f838d08194f89a9486ea173e.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180425/ae53f1800c1d2553c0b4ec069e186e7f.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180425/2fa1de43d3a330274591eddae71b2129.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180425/f98507314fcf47d8c216afae66e03f56.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180425/17c40ec84bbdcb1e5451fde12c0c2bed.jpg
montesquieu
25-04-2018, 16:38
Funky! I love it.
Magna Audio
28-04-2018, 22:59
Yes, it certainly changes the decks appearance from the usual black / silver or bright sprayed DJ paint jobs you see.
Any type of wood veneer, exotic or otherwise would be possible ;)
Magna Audio
02-05-2018, 08:20
Tannoy drivers have arrived for installation in the GRF-N cabinets.
Beautifully original, straight out of the sixties. They've been in the same homemade cabinets the whole time.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180502/cc02dbddeb96b3aa9051690f7438f59f.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180502/21bbf111b942bad6be4d00479fa3f7c4.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180502/2f362911ec98bbe74d9126783da3378b.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180502/eacf63290d7726c9e63b603131c8ffad.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180502/257a295dd128de97420b2fec3d0fb9eb.jpg
Magna Audio
09-05-2018, 06:35
Here's an ebony armboard for the Technics SL-1210 fitting a Kuzma Stogie Reference tonearm.
The arm requires a depth below the platter of 28mm minimum!
It's a tight fit but I did it.
This one features the mounting system from underneath and is pictured during test mounting and finished on my now ebony veneered test plinth.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180509/e1cc9f5790f72f2c5c926258c5b66316.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180509/e72a0f77a1a66fe37d26a38e52c281de.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180509/915e66572e9a21a502dd195da46a4adf.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180509/5c56597a6f789730d5428de1a51c4b47.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180509/8749c16ad18f1ace59930c6eb276429a.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180509/4adb3cbe940e772b73b2d3bf2527d456.jpg
Magna Audio
16-05-2018, 07:23
This is one I made recently to fit a Kuzma Stogi Reference on a Technics SL-1210. It required careful sizing up and fitting
as tolerances were tight for this arm with the low platter to plinth height.
"Hi Steve,
Tonearm fits perfectly; I've attached a few pictures.
The sound is leaps and bounds ahead of my previous set up, even with a
fairly modded 1210, I just wasn't prepared for the increase in
soundstage and the shear clarity of vocals and every type of
instrument!
The armboard is a fantastic job, beautiful, rock solid and was easy to
fit with the supplied bolts; I can't thank you enough for such
excellent service.
Kind regards,
Alex"
Pics on Alex's deck
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180516/88731ebc45d23ebcf93e830421586810.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180516/65f552b465d5849da8d4155b3b942cd1.jpg
Magna Audio
16-05-2018, 07:35
Peter commissioned a pair of my Tannoy GRF narrow/tall style cabinets in premium birch plywood.
I also modded the crossovers for bi-amping and changed all the caps and checks the resistors out.
Dear Steve,
Please feel free to include the text below in your customer feedback section.
In spring 2018 I asked Steve to make me a pair of GRF Narrows. I had acquired from my father-in-law a pair of 15" Monitor Golds which he had had from new in early 1973. He had built unported cabinets for them which were close in dimensions and design to Tannoy Lancasters. I did not believe that the speakers were delivering all that they could, and were being held back by their enclosures. Treble was OK, but bass was curtailed and congested. Steve fitted the speakers into the new cabinets and I collected the finished job and installed them in my home. I have been listening for a week or so now, and all the expected benefits have become apparent. The stereo image is taller, wider and deeper, and much more stable than before. The whole sound is more lively, more credible. The bass is greatly extended, and much more taut and agile than before. Treble is cleaner and crisper. In short, the music simply dances.
Hope all is well with you,
Best regards,
Peter
A pic of Peter's current set up.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180516/700831880e5fa1043d6892fac9983161.jpg
Magna Audio
19-05-2018, 16:19
Here's a solid ebony armboard for a Technics SP-10 / plinth.
The original in plastic coated MDF weighed 325g.
The ebony replacement weighs 803g
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180519/1063b3d19fc0a29ba4d6fa90177a16dd.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180519/1d4095dc88593e9b7aa97b3a8243b268.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180519/9aab3bcce5f2cfb6875aa26bf20db05b.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180519/b4f259b6384b32b611ec1bec7e6509d1.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180519/090df3ef4a7b1fd9c59cea746dd60382.jpg
Magna Audio
23-05-2018, 16:46
Next step in the Technics SL-1210 mkII ebony revamp makeover project..
Made up ebony sleeve and top for the on off switch and ebony switch plate got the start/stop and 33/45 rpm buttons.
No plastic, chrome or silver finish in sight soon :)
Next up an ebony pitch slider knob and rubbing the veneer down to smooth finish before sanding sealer applications, more rubbing and finally spray lacquering.
Then it's onto to upgrade fitting and electrical mods
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180523/e48ba16143251109c6649d67bc9cf7fb.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180523/38a76ebfb47fcc54700c0c3fba2857a3.jpg
Magna Audio
04-06-2018, 10:57
Here's an ebony arm mounting block.
Close tolerance grip fit for the armbase. 4 X threaded inserts for bolting the base down to the plinth..
Should sound great.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180604/d3361ebd607cd0b91b9c3db82194503c.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180604/8104e0fa158b77219e17b9df36572a5f.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180604/8e2db3b72ab1daf93396de7d7e13a325.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180604/15a94fef64140fcd3b2d877732bb3f9d.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180604/4cfa8f546e4406d9f591dd83240bcfe2.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180604/5b26183ac6364ef93650418c26ba06cf.jpg
Berni217
04-06-2018, 13:00
Very nice indeed!
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Magna Audio
05-06-2018, 07:51
Thanks.
Magna Audio
25-07-2018, 07:37
Here's the finished result of a totally revamped Technics SL-1210 mkII deck.
New ebony armboard, new Mike New bearing fitted, new Mike New platter fitted, new Furutech mains cable / Furutech plug / Furutech tonearm / Furutech phono cable fitted.
The deck has been veneered in striped ebony veneer, all the controls converted to ebony, all lights disabled.
The pitch slider was retained but the knob is now ebony :)
I even made an ebony 45rpm single record adapter.
I fitted a new SME309 arm and setup the arm and Transfiguration Proteus cart up and performed listening tests to get it spot on.
It's been a fun project and the proud owner is very happy indeed. More on that later.
Some pics and a couple whilst listening.
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/923/43626892791_3e071a2586_o_d.jpg
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/838/41819101140_16cc03de22_o_d.jpg
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https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180725/46fcd85751baf41374e6563058769efc.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180725/93b73c814df5c7eea1fb493b50b32dee.jpg
Magna Audio
17-08-2018, 11:08
Ebony armboard for Technics SL-120. 1" thick solid ebony. Drilled for Alphason HR100s tonearm and with 4 mounting holes as required for the SL-120.
Off to Hong Kong this one.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180817/77938ffe9be765eb99d134f9a85a6f68.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180817/26b713f3aa09db2bfa555f2caf5e1dac.jpg
Magna Audio
18-08-2018, 11:49
Here's a replacement lateral weight for a Dynavector DV505.
Correct weight, nylon insert and locking grub screw.
Off to Australia this one.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180818/d9e60dbebebfd6855b7a68d7648f8ff9.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180818/394b453904e416e04fbaa02050fa4c92.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180818/dc5e82074d8f7368c21ca1d9964b24e5.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180818/96421088747939e6323196ca48b645a3.jpg
Magna Audio
22-08-2018, 15:07
Latest armboard. 20mm thick solid ebony.
For Technics SP-10 and Jelco arm fitting.
Choice of armboard to plinth fitting screws.
Off to USA with this one.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180822/93d675a772f4ad2bf01586155cec48b4.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180822/79da5db35df1633bb4c0bb4568d8bc3b.jpg
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https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180822/621af0593004f64cb7413ed9cb82c679.jpg
Magna Audio
23-08-2018, 17:30
Customer pics of the recent Ebony armboard I made for his Technics SL-120 deck and Alphason HR100s tonearm.
He's based on Hong Kong and wrote "I am very happy to own it."
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180823/98431200cac9fd892bafb5258c6a8605.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180823/498d1b91568d0186c9d4b381a0b36dbd.jpg
montesquieu
23-08-2018, 21:40
Lovely work Steve.
Magna Audio
24-08-2018, 13:18
Lovely work Steve.Aww thanks Tom.
Magna Audio
08-11-2018, 19:01
Custom armboard in 18mm thick solid ebony hardwood. For a Garrard 501 (built by Loricraft Audio) which had an aluminium board cut for an SME arm. The original armboard was always too thin. Fixed with a nice chunk of beautiful ebony drilled from the customers armboard marked with a template, for a very nice Audio Origami Uniarm.
The subsequent photos show from block to finished article.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181108/82dc50cc55fcc52523fe10381cf0d5eb.jpg
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https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181108/464ae86886743316254a2cb1ab8c66df.jpg
Magna Audio
07-01-2019, 17:22
Latest project
A second armpod under construction for a return customer - when one extra arm just won't do :)
Tube is prepped and 7kgs of lead cast.
These pods are super heavy and stable
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190107/b6af64d91331d61efa8874995a919ed5.jpg
Glass Fibre / Polyester resin topped for strength and stability.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190107/5ad342e343bb7f50e216cb8eb1cbb2de.jpg
Turning the armpod feet from brass.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190107/cb3eb4f03d412a63b6878308f8ba635a.jpg
3 feet discs ready
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190107/dfc2bfbfddebe5cee79d9ea5666dc9a3.jpg
Threaded for precision, knurled for grip.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190107/808a5d5db4aa3ad4b1db204eaebc9fc1.jpg
Next up armtube lacquering process underway. This one will be satin black.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190107/dc836ca6d1e304a7ce379f1bccec3030.jpg
More to follow..
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Magna Audio
07-01-2019, 17:48
Here's one I finished before Christmas..
African Blackwood armboard for the new Technics SL-1200GR deck.
The arm is an Audiomods series 5 with VTA adjustment. Rega fitting.
It is a tough fit due to the size and position of the VTA adjustment assembly.
The armboard fitting is quite different to the SL -12X0 series too.
No problem for me ;)
This is a trial fitting pic. Finishing yet to go.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190107/666609f0f7ae73bfe38be8e7f69480e6.jpg
Seen here alongside the original 1200 GR arm.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190107/c31b6a8f0cd7cd1ba8b4364aac85bdcf.jpg
This one is from the customer all set up and playing
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190107/45ce862cdef3e94286a4c7461ce98f3e.jpg
He is a happy bunny.
I made a template armboard so I can recreate again if anyone wants an ebony or ABW armboard for the SL-1200GR.
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Magna Audio
16-01-2019, 19:51
The armpod is ready.
Will be collected next week.
Atop of the solid ebony armboard is a Audio Technica AT 1005 MkII.
The arm will also be getting a new polished stainless steel armlift carrier - more on that later.
Here is the 7kgs+ pod. Height adjustable +/- 10mm.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190116/5228e2c8c0d5699852ec777d36ecc4ad.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190116/ecaffaa340182b49883b7181f40a911f.jpg
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https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190116/26f828935bc6eaf7c3b7db748ce235d8.jpg
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Magna Audio
18-01-2019, 16:57
Here's a brushed Stainless steel tonearm damper weight, bound for the USA.
Fits atop the Fidelity Research FR64s tonearm. This one features a composite insert that's not too hard and not too soft to dampen any micro vibrations that could occur metal to metal.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190118/2fa1c5a747d3c5624fa3c1b9b5634881.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190118/af0d093acb0deda395f5b91658d542d7.jpg
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hifi_dave
18-01-2019, 17:01
Luvverly job..:thumbsup:
Magna Audio
19-01-2019, 13:16
Luvverly job..[emoji106]Thanks :)
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Magna Audio
21-01-2019, 13:31
Tonearm armpod with ebony armboard and armlift / armclip holder for Audio Technica AT-1005 arm.
All ready to collect.
The armlift is a new Jelco one which matches and works well. I fit arm clips to the armlift carriers, so it's all self contained.
Robust, height adjustable feet give a good range of adjustability and levelling.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190121/ec0949bb643b07b47b0e04509fbc50a4.jpg
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https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190121/8da77392554bbade511ef266e0bf7f7c.jpg
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Magna Audio
18-02-2019, 16:58
Another armpod.
This time in brushed aluminium.
Will have the usual ebony armboard, adjustable knurled brass feet and fitting for an SME V tonearm.
Lead filled as ever for mass and stability.
More to follow as I progress.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190218/4a438e4f6664561380331d93cc47ba4a.jpg
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Magna Audio
21-02-2019, 17:43
Progress on an ebony armboard to fit a Mikro Seiki to a Technics SL-150.
The deck requires quite a deep armboard and has 3 long in reaching lobes where the armboard sits. Engineering hat on and an elegant solution will be found.
Pictured here it is not finished / polished yet.
Trial fitting on my SL-1210.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190221/f21f2c21c7cda531c63cd6a4417118b3.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190221/0286b9e122ec10447a58ad514f15346e.jpg
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Magna Audio
27-02-2019, 08:18
The armpod for a SME V is ready.
This has to incorporate the angled phono cable exit underneath.
As usual cast lead filled for mass and stability, three height adjustable soft pad feet and a thick ebony armboard with threaded inserts for easy arm fitting.
Ships to the Netherlands.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190227/675152dab65c5af82609bdeaab5a9750.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190227/6bddb3e971ee4666b1eaffa5adf0fa34.jpg
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https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190227/14a4c96683a8eebf607b0f0dd5d19a2a.jpg
I can make these for pretty much any arm. Even in 3" diameter if space is tight.
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