Ambient room temperature dictates cartridge performance

[Jimbo]

I have discovered why I am hearing such a difference in my system due to variation in room temperature. Please ignore this if you are already aware of these facts!:)

Most Cartridges specify an optimum performance based on an average operating temperature and humidity of 70 degrees F with + or - 5 degree variance.
Since most cartridge suspensions are rubber based, the cartridge designer will choose a rubber suspension material with a hardness (shore) rating designed to work best in average room temperatures.

My room is often below 60 degrees F which is below the average operating temperature, therefore cartridge suspension will become stiffer, thereby restricting stylus movement (less amptitude) therefore, affecting frequency response.

Also taking into consideration speaker cone rubber suspension materials and valve operating temperatures etc I now understand why my system sounds so much better when I heat it to 70 F or above:doh:

Although its going to cost me more i think increasing room temperature will be worth it!:lol:

[struth]

My living room is pretty much at 21c all the time which is probably close to that. Upstairs its a fair bit warmer due to the loft insulation. got cold bones now.

[Marco]

Just buy a nice big pair of Class A valve monoblocks and yer room will never be cold again! :eyebrows:

What you need is a Denon DL-S1, which you heard on my T/T at NEBO 5: http://www.lpgear.com/product/DENONDLS1.html observing this bit from the ad:


4. Denon's unique 2-way dumping system. The unique Denon two-way dumping system has been employed to suppress the tonal variations due to changes in room temperature and at the same time to obtain level frequency characteristics.


;)

It works, too!!

Marco.

[walpurgis]

It's quite common for some systems or equipment items to sound better in a warm environment. Mine certainly does, that includes amps, speakers and cartridges to my hearing.

My SS Class A amps certainly make the room warmer after a while, as do my valve monos.

[Jimbo]

Just buy a nice pair of big Class A valve monoblocks and yer room will never be cold again! :eyebrows:

What you need is a Denon DL-S1, which you heard on my T/T at Nebo: http://www.lpgear.com/product/DENONDLS1.html observing this bit from the ad:



;)

It works, too!!

Marco.

Think I am going to have to try the DL-S1 on my VPI sometime anyway.

Some of Glenn's early OTL's would have certainly helped with room temp:)

[Marco]

Honestly, Jim, the DL-S1 would be killer on your VPI! A kick-ass combo, for sure... :trust:

Marco.

[Jimbo]

Honestly, Jim, the DL-S1 would be killer on your VPI! A kick-ass combo, for sure... :trust:

Marco.
Certainly hearing yours at NEBO I was extremely impressed:thumbsup:

[StanleyB]

I find that a few shots of rum or brandy can quickly raise the temperature. And yes the equipment does tend to sound better then.

[shane]

Back in the day I used to attend a lot of regional hifi shows which were held in assorted hotels of varying quality. Often room temperatures were quite low, and most exhibitors would have a desk lamp next to the turntable aimed squarely at the cartridge. Worked a treat.

Does that Denon ad really talk about a "two-way dumping system"? That could make your eyes water....

[Spectral Morn]

Not just cartridges but also speaker cones are effected by changes in ambient temperature.



Regards Neil

[maxrob200]

I believe it is the elastomer in the cartridge that reacts to temperature changes.