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Gazjam
05-08-2015, 15:45
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/Kit%20pics/Turntable/4.jpg (http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/Kit%20pics/Turntable/4.jpg.html)http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/Kit%20pics/Turntable/2.jpg (http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/Kit%20pics/Turntable/2.jpg.html)
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/Kit%20pics/Turntable/6.jpg (http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/Kit%20pics/Turntable/6.jpg.html)

Tonearm upgrade later in the year then She's done. :)

struth
05-08-2015, 15:47
:wow: jolly good old chap. love it

brian2957
05-08-2015, 15:55
Looking good mate . Hopefully I'll get over to get a listen to it tomorrow.

Spectral Morn
05-08-2015, 15:57
Must say I do love the look of the Gyrodec and that one is very pretty :cool: Like the sound too :)


Regards Neil

Tarzan
05-08-2015, 16:20
Ruddy Nora that looks fine.:eek::cool:

trio leo
05-08-2015, 16:35
Wow!! super looking deck Gazjam, I'm sure it all sounds great.

Enjoy your music :)

cheers Al

Ali Tait
05-08-2015, 17:06
Very nice Gaz!

The Black Adder
05-08-2015, 17:27
Love it!... looking very shwexy!

Is that a custom paint job? I loved my Orb SE.... a stunning TT.

Audio Al
05-08-2015, 18:02
Very nice , my only comment is why the gloss tonearm spacer / base and the rest is satin ?

Gazjam
05-08-2015, 20:22
Thanks Peeps. :)
The deck when I got it originally looked like this:
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/5642798664_59822e101f_b.jpg (http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/5642798664_59822e101f_b.jpg.html)
So have done a fair bit of work to customise it!

Originally looking for a black Gyro/Orbe and the one above came up for a great price so was rude not to.
Finally getting around to making it the way I want it, its cool to have something custom I think?
Replaced stock parts silver for black where possible, had a local car spraypaint outfit spray the chassis the same satin black as Michell uses and fitted the Orbe double spider and feet. The satin/gloss look is the way Michell do their black decks so wanted to keep it "legit".
The deck when I bought it was "pre-Orbed" so had a few upgrades already done as well as having the HR PSU, which is a lot better than the standard wall-wart.

Latest change was replacing the Orbe platter with the spinny weight Gyro one?
Looks better and gives the deck a different character, looks and sound-wise which I like.
The Orbe and the Gyro are different sounding decks and fitting the Gyro platter adds some of the Gyro's sparkle and detail, which works well in my setup.
Managed to sell on the Orbe platter so that went towards the cost of the Gyro one, practically a straight swap.
The Orbe platter IS an upgrade over the Gyro one, but system/ preferences dependant I think, so happy my old one is a good upgrade for someone else.

Only problem was with the addition of the double spider and slimmer Gyro platter, I had to raise the motor unit up an inch or so to get the belt pulley in line.
I didn't want to stick a stack of coasters or a slab of marble under it and waste the look, so got a black armboard plate from Michell, (same as whats fitted already under my tonearm) which exactly matches the dimensions and finish of the motor unit, and raises the motor up to the perfect height for the platter.
Sorted. :)

Just the arm upgrade later in the year (black natch...) and she's done.

dhemen
05-08-2015, 21:45
That looks amasing to my eyes Gaz. Congrats!!

Some questions from someone planing to have a gyro.
- Orbe platter, does it take the warmness away. How do you compare it with gyro platter?
- The small vibration bases under the foot, are they SDS feets? Do they really work, any differences on sound quality?

And finally for sure you need a black sme arm to complete the Batmobile.. Ups sorry the battable [emoji3]

NRG
05-08-2015, 22:22
Tonearm upgrade later in the year then She's done. :)

Nope! You need an Orbe plater on that, trust me...been there and got the T-shirt ;)

Scratch that I see you've gone the other way :stalks: :scratch:

Gazjam
07-08-2015, 12:23
Bought the Gyro platter and directly compared them in my setup Neal, as with everything compared it can be a trade off what you gain what you lose, and the Gyro platter did it for me.
Orbe platter is *better* particularly in the bass, but the Gyro platter in my setup has a "life" about it which i like.
Different flavours of the same deck I guess, and I'd be fibbing if I said the visual aspect of it never played a part too. :)

User211
07-08-2015, 16:19
Before I bought my Oebe platter I asked Michell what difference it made. Answer? Better bass definition.

When I got it I could only agree. It also sounds smoother and better defined higher up the FR. A standard Gyro platter can spit real fire into music, though. Works well with some music.

However it looks shite compared to the standard Gyro platter. The thing to do perhaps is swap them round every now and then for a change. I screwed up and sold my Gyro platter for a pittance:D

Marco
12-08-2015, 23:12
Yo Gaz, sorry to be a party pooper, but I much prefer how the deck looked originally, with the chunky platter, minus the bling! :o :eyebrows:

For me, it looked more industrial, 'purposeful' and less showy that way, but then I like rather 'sober' looking T/Ts... Anyway, as long as you're happy, that's what counts :)

Btw, did I miss the arrival of the 300Bs, and your write-up on those?

Marco.

Gazjam
13-08-2015, 00:15
Still waiting on the uber-300B marco, putting up thread when its in place. :)

Hear you on the bling, fancied a change and actually prefer the sound!

Marco
13-08-2015, 08:26
Ah, no worries on the amps, it's just that I saw you'd listed them on your sig....

As for your T/T, don't worry about me. I just have an aversion for shiny gold on hi-fi equipment. If it sounds better, and you like the looks, then enjoy! :cool:

Marco.

Gazjam
07-10-2015, 12:47
Arm board upgrade coming soon, expecting good improvements...
Better cart isolation from chassis vibration should make more of the Technoarm and let me hear more of what my cart can do.

Taking the opportunity to reoil the bearing with Audo Origami bearing oil, double checking everything is 110% level and get the bounce totally spot on.

Pics up when she's done.
All good.

Tarzan
07-10-2015, 20:09
Arm board upgrade coming soon, expecting good improvements...
Better cart isolation from chassis vibration should make more of the Technoarm and let me hear more of what my cart can do.

Taking the opportunity to reoil the bearing with Audo Origami bearing oil, double checking everything is 110% level and get the bounce totally spot on.

Pics up when she's done.
All good.


:eek::popcorn:

Gazjam
11-10-2015, 08:02
Today I will be mostly....
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/20151011_085750_HDR.jpg

struth
11-10-2015, 09:46
...playing with your thingy?:eyebrows:

You trying sommat else under the gyro Gary?

brian2957
11-10-2015, 09:49
This looks interesting :)

Tarzan
11-10-2015, 12:35
Gaz, when is the Gert Pedersen armboard due?:eek:

brian2957
11-10-2015, 13:44
I think he's busy fitting it today Andy :)

Gazjam
11-10-2015, 17:19
Board fitted.
Improvement across the board...eventually!

Ali Tait was over to listen to the new valve amp and let me hear his custom passive pre against my Densen.
Kicking off with digital, spun up some BB King Ali's passive pre sounding great.
Not night and day better than the Densen by any means - not a lot in it at all, but we both preferred the "flavour" of his passive.
Be happy with either Pre was the thought, give the cost of the passive and if I was starting again know which one I'd be going for.

I had previously fitted the armboard mod before Ali got to my gaff, but was still setting up tracking force/VTA etc.
Bit of a rush job but we sat down to listen to some vinyl.
Unfortunately there was an issue with "motor boarding" feedback somewhere between the Passive Pre and my Firebottle (which was odd as there's none with Ali's two box Firebottle), so we did the vinyl listening solely through the Densen.

Something wasn't quite right in the State of Denmark though...the Turntable sounded off.
A second look at Tracking force and particularly cartridge VTA (cheers Ali) brought the Gyro back to life....ah that's better. :)

So in conclusion,
the armboard mod is a classic no-brainer compared to the Michell decoupling kit I had in place before. Much better with improvements all round, particularly I'd say in the bass, which goes deeper and tighter. Top end shimmer is more obvious too.

Couple of WTF moments when big drums kicked in..whoa.

http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/20151011_181957_HDR.jpg
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/20151011_181949_HDR.jpg

Ali Tait
11-10-2015, 18:03
Yep, once the arm and cart was fettled, it's easily the best I've heard Gary's system sound, could quite happily live with it.

The amp is sounding gorgeous, drives the Edingdales superbly. Every Eddie owner should have one of these amps!

Tarzan
11-10-2015, 20:12
Good show enjoy!:eek:

brian2957
11-10-2015, 20:23
Nice one , The last time I heard Garys system it sounded very good indeed . If this upgrade is better then I'm really looking forward to my next visit .:)

Gazjam
11-10-2015, 20:42
ok..

but you need to hear this Brian. :eek:

struth
11-10-2015, 20:45
Great to hear youve got another significant upgrade Gary. Nice one.:eek:

brian2957
11-10-2015, 20:47
ok..

but you need to hear this Brian. :eek:

Oooh ! That good mate :D

Marco
11-10-2015, 20:55
Nice one, Gaz. That armboard certainly looks shwexy! :eyebrows: However, why didn't you get our resident expert, Speedy Steve, to do you one? Keep it in the family, bruv! ;)

Looking forward more than ever now to hear your system, as there's been some significant changes since I was there last. Be interesting to hear how the Goldpoint cuts it in comparison with the Densen. Would like to hear Ali's passive too, so hopefully he can make it on the Sunday I'm coming over (likely also with Snapper)? :)

Marco.

Ali Tait
11-10-2015, 20:59
What date Marco?

Marco
11-10-2015, 21:12
Sunday 25th of this month, matey. The crew are getting together at Gaz's. Can you make it? :)

Marco.

Ali Tait
11-10-2015, 21:19
Yeah should be able to do that mate.

Marco
11-10-2015, 21:21
Coolio... Look forward to it - should be an interesting one! :thumbsup:

Marco.

Gazjam
11-10-2015, 21:40
FPQlXNH36mI

Ali Tait
11-10-2015, 21:50
:D

Marco
11-10-2015, 21:55
:grouphug: :hifive: :hifive:

Marco.

Gazjam
11-10-2015, 22:12
Nice one, Gaz. That armboard certainly looks shwexy! :eyebrows: However, why didn't you get our resident expert, Speedy Steve, to do you one? Keep it in the family, bruv! ;)

Looking forward more than ever now to hear your system, as there's been some significant changes since I was there last. Be interesting to hear how the Goldpoint cuts it in comparison with the Densen. Would like to hear Ali's passive too, so hopefully he can make it on the Sunday I'm coming over (likely also with Snapper)? :)

Marco.

Snappers not getting past the door unless he brings some cakes... :D

Gazjam
02-06-2016, 15:11
Oh...
Posties just dropped off a parcel. :eyebrows:
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/20160602_152255_HDR_zpszyixczeh.jpg

White box...Pair of trainers?
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/20160602_152518_HDR_zpsmn0m7gds.jpg

Thankfully not!
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/20160602_152539_HDR_zpsj1qivhnd.jpg

All bits n bobs present and correct.
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/20160602_153710_HDR_zpsfscnkocw.jpg

Some changes afoot...
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/20160602_154055_HDR_zpsu3s2zxl7.jpg

Got a great example, happy days. :)

From the Original Ad from London Dealer:

"An immaculate SME V tonearm for sale. This is one owner, purchased by my customer in 2012 (December 2011 build) and it has been very carefully used on an Avid turntable ever since. In wonderful condition, no marks or blemishes to point out to you. Comes complete in its inner and outer packing boxes, foam casing, warranty card, instruction manual, mouinting template and protractor, lots and lots of tools and spares and of course the tonearm cable."

Sure enough, it looks brand new. Not a blemish, dust or even any fingerprints on it.
Can tell its obviously been well looked after.
Taking it in to Audio Origami to fit and set up, too scary...I'm not tackling it!

Rush2112
02-06-2016, 15:15
Great arm, mine of choice for some considerable time and SMEs back up is legendary however you have everything by the sounds of it. A little extra time setting up is worthwhile as once done will never need to be done again.

Ali Tait
02-06-2016, 15:27
Very nice Gaz,look forward to hearing this.

brian2957
02-06-2016, 16:35
Very nice mate :)

struth
02-06-2016, 16:41
Sweet.

Virtual-Symmetry
02-06-2016, 17:23
Best TT Manufacturers in the word as far as im concerned. Looks very nice Gaz but i have to say i do not like the 'Orb' platters they totally spoils the beauty of that deck imho.

Marco
02-06-2016, 18:34
Nice one, Gaz. I'm not the biggest fan of the magnesium-based range of SME arms, *but* they do work a treat on a Gyro - call it synergy! And no doubt that Johnny will get your V singing nicely, so it should end up sounding fab :)

Give him my regards when you see him :cool:

Marco.

AlfaGTV
02-06-2016, 18:59
Congrats Gaz! The Michell and SME create a great package! :)
But are you seriously having Johnny7 rip its intestants? What on earth for? The internal cabling is well up to the task on recent sample like that, im sure? Silver plated VanDenHul if im not mistaken... Not like in the SME's of old i think...

Anyways, enjoy the vinyl!
/Mike




Skickas från min iPad via Tapatalk

struth
02-06-2016, 19:07
Congrats Gaz! The Michell and SME create a great package! :)
But are you seriously having Johnny7 rip its intestants? What on earth for? The internal cabling is well up to the task on recent sample like that, im sure? Silver plated VanDenHul if im not mistaken... Not like in the SME's of old i think...

Anyways, enjoy the vinyl!
/Mike




Skickas från min iPad via Tapatalk

think he is getting J7 to set it up, not rewire it.

Marco
02-06-2016, 19:27
Indeed :)

Marco.

Gazjam
02-06-2016, 19:36
Thanks guys.
A "tonearm for life" methinks (and the deck as well, love what it does.)
The arms black to match the deck, whats not to like? :)

I'm swapping the external cable for sure, the internal wire...not sure. Will eventually I s'pose if I read enough evidence saying its worth it.
Have read that SME changed their internal wiring compared to the original issue, and I phoned them asking as I had a 2011 build arm, is it worth sending it back to Factory?
No changes to the design since 2009 the guy told me, I had the latest spec.

That said, if it'll make an improvement I'll go for it.
Pretty sure once I change the external cable to Yannis or the like, it'll be "good enough" and thats good enough for me.

It'll be a step up from the Technoarm "as is" and I liked that, so all good.

struth
02-06-2016, 19:44
Think so too mate.. its a bosker.. you did say you had a surprise coming ;)

Gazjam
02-06-2016, 19:55
Sure did!

struth
02-06-2016, 19:58
last thing I was expecting for some reason...dunno why as youve said it b4.

Virtual-Symmetry
02-06-2016, 20:12
Thanks guys.
A "tonearm for life" methinks (and the deck as well, love what it does.)
The arms black to match the deck, whats not to like? :)



Both Michell & SME are world class engineering, Both companies are a testament to what British Precision Engineering is & what is still possible. Ive always thought Michell Turntables were well under priced for starters.

Gazjam
02-06-2016, 20:29
last thing I was expecting for some reason...dunno why as youve said it b4.

Sometimes....fortune favours the foolish. :)

struth
02-06-2016, 20:39
Never favoured me much :(

Gazjam
02-06-2016, 20:43
Never favoured me much :(

Ach away wi' ye Man....
Happy to have my elf(at the moment), if not fuck the hifi!

Gazjam
02-06-2016, 20:44
Nice one, Gaz. I'm not the biggest fan of the magnesium-based range of SME arms, *but* they do work a treat on a Gyro - call it synergy! And no doubt that Johnny will get your V singing nicely, so it should end up sounding fab :)

Give him my regards when you see him :cool:

Marco.

Will do!

Marco
02-06-2016, 21:04
Cool. I've not been to his 'posh' new set-up yet. Last time I was at his gaff, it was an up a metal ladder to the attic job! 'Quaint', though.... :eyebrows:

Marco.

Gazjam
02-06-2016, 21:14
Its a wee bit different now allegedly....

Rush2112
02-06-2016, 21:22
Changing the internal wiring ! Only to be considered let alone undertaken by someone who has the skills and experience to do it correctly. Having been present at a dealer when a customer arrived with a box of bits having had someone who said they knew what they were doing attempt a rewire ! Thankfully SME restored the arm to full operation for a nominal cost.

Gazjam
02-06-2016, 21:39
I hear you! :)

I aint touching it, but if I go down that road Johnny at Audio Origami is the gold standard.

struth
02-06-2016, 22:25
Johnny is the man


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Spectral Morn
03-06-2016, 13:35
Oh...
Posties just dropped off a parcel. :eyebrows:
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/20160602_152255_HDR_zpszyixczeh.jpg

White box...Pair of trainers?
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/20160602_152518_HDR_zpsmn0m7gds.jpg

Thankfully not!
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/20160602_152539_HDR_zpsj1qivhnd.jpg

All bits n bobs present and correct.
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/20160602_153710_HDR_zpsfscnkocw.jpg

Some changes afoot...
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/20160602_154055_HDR_zpsu3s2zxl7.jpg

Got a great example, happy days. :)

From the Original Ad from London Dealer:

"An immaculate SME V tonearm for sale. This is one owner, purchased by my customer in 2012 (December 2011 build) and it has been very carefully used on an Avid turntable ever since. In wonderful condition, no marks or blemishes to point out to you. Comes complete in its inner and outer packing boxes, foam casing, warranty card, instruction manual, mouinting template and protractor, lots and lots of tools and spares and of course the tonearm cable."

Sure enough, it looks brand new. Not a blemish, dust or even any fingerprints on it.
Can tell its obviously been well looked after.
Taking it in to Audio Origami to fit and set up, too scary...I'm not tackling it!




Very nice Gary :)

AlfaGTV
04-06-2016, 08:45
Thanks guys.
A "tonearm for life" methinks (and the deck as well, love what it does.)
The arms black to match the deck, whats not to like? :)

I'm swapping the external cable for sure, the internal wire...not sure. Will eventually I s'pose if I read enough evidence saying its worth it.
Have read that SME changed their internal wiring compared to the original issue, and I phoned them asking as I had a 2011 build arm, is it worth sending it back to Factory?
No changes to the design since 2009 the guy told me, I had the latest spec.

That said, if it'll make an improvement I'll go for it.
Pretty sure once I change the external cable to Yannis or the like, it'll be "good enough" and thats good enough for me.

It'll be a step up from the Technoarm "as is" and I liked that, so all good.

Ah, very good info! Keep us posted on the progress, please!
I dont think the external cables are all that bad either, even if you probably will experience a difference in sound with other cables.
(My choice was a Nordost Tyr which im perfectly happy with)

Gazjam
04-06-2016, 09:40
Will do Mike.

Tonearm cable wise, I've heard diffrent opinions on the Van Den Hul silver cable supplied with the arm, so a case of listening for myself as always.
I have one of Audio Origami's silver plated copper cables, will compare with that.

A cable that of interest, and is new to me, is from an American company called Morrow Audio?
Anyone came across them? http://morrowaudio.com/audiophile-and-home-theater/phono-cables
(http://morrowaudio.com/audiophile-and-home-theater/phono-cables)
The American forums rave about them, apparently pretty special...might take a punt on one of their phono cables as they offer a 60 day trial.
I've ordered their XLR digital interconnect to try, it's apparently the next step up from the DH Labs I current use.

See what happens. :)

TazSob
06-06-2016, 12:17
That's a gorgeous bit of kit you have there and beautiful custom job.

Gazjam
07-06-2016, 10:01
Thanks Taz.
Hoping for good things when I have the arm fitted.

struth
07-06-2016, 10:22
Not got that fitted yet Gaz....?...?...

Gazjam
07-06-2016, 12:41
Not got that fitted yet Gaz....?...?...

Not yet Grant.
Couple of things I plan to do to it before it gets fitted?

Asking J7 to silver rewire it internally, one length from cartridge tags to din plug.
That done, I'll ask him to fit and set it all up for me with my cart at one of his Saturday drop-in's at Loud 'n Clear in Glasgow.
I dont wanna tackle it myself as its not something you'd wanna mess up, do it once and do it right!

Two seperate jobs, so biding my time and putting the pennies by for the rewire.
The Technoarm's very good in the meantime.

Slowly slowly catchee monkey :eyebrows:

Gazjam
19-06-2016, 13:40
The game's afoot...
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/1_zpsd1gtiy0n.jpg

Fitting the Gert Pedersen armboard to the deck...
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/2_zpsfqniomuq.jpg



(http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/2_zpsfqniomuq.jpg.html)

Virtual-Symmetry
19-06-2016, 13:42
Why not fit two arms Gaz?

Gazjam
19-06-2016, 13:46
Armboard fitted.
The clear acrylic looks better than the standard black plastic spacers I think?

Next up the "brown trouser bit"...fitting the arm. :)
(http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/4_zpsobxcnfii.jpg.html)http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/3_zpsf2ctjwka.jpg (http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/3_zpsf2ctjwka.jpg.html)http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/4_zpsobxcnfii.jpg (http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/4_zpsobxcnfii.jpg.html)

Gazjam
19-06-2016, 13:48
Why not fit two arms Gaz?

Maybe one day Andr'e, always an option later on.

Virtual-Symmetry
19-06-2016, 13:49
Is that arm on Right. I generally have my SME mounting facing into the centre of the platter

http://nuke.nonsoloaudiofili.com/Portals/0/TAV%202010%20II°%20Parte/ARIES%20Audio%20Reference%20P1040657.JPG

Gazjam
19-06-2016, 13:57
Is that arm on Right. I generally have my SME mounting facing into the centre of the platter

http://nuke.nonsoloaudiofili.com/Portals/0/TAV%202010%20II°%20Parte/ARIES%20Audio%20Reference%20P1040657.JPG

Its just sitting on the armboard Andre, its not bolted on yet.
Couldn't resist taking a sneaky look http://theartofsound.net/images/smilies/smile.gif

Need to adjust the bolts that hold the arm pillar in place first of all, the previous owner had the arm on an Avid deck, and had the arm lining up parallel with the mounting plate

Gazjam
19-06-2016, 17:35
Arm fitted...phew.
SME instructions were really great actually, just took my time one step at a time.
Just final tweaking to go then it's done. :)
Wont get time to have a listen tonight, but will tommorow.
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/6_zpsy1mns5ln.jpg (http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/6_zpsy1mns5ln.jpg.html)
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/9_zpsppy6w13v.jpg (http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/9_zpsppy6w13v.jpg.html)http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/13_zpsp5ysihnn.jpg (http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/13_zpsp5ysihnn.jpg.html)


(http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/10_zps69fwerpv.jpg.html)

struth
19-06-2016, 17:55
Nice one Gary... Courage and steady hand ;) looks good on there

Virtual-Symmetry
19-06-2016, 17:58
Orbe'gaz'matronic

Gazjam
19-06-2016, 20:04
Orbe'gaz'matronic

:lol:

Virtual-Symmetry
19-06-2016, 20:51
:eyebrows:

Gazjam
19-06-2016, 21:38
Impatience got the better of me, had to sit down and have a listen.
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/16_zpsnuuiq5ra.jpg (http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/16_zpsnuuiq5ra.jpg.html)http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/15_zpswsqmdf2z.jpg (http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/Kit%20pics/SME%20V%20fitting/15_zpswsqmdf2z.jpg.html)

Holey moely...:eek:
Big step up from the Technoarm, as good as it was.
Just using standard cabling for now, some fettling and adjusting to come, but sitting here with a big grin, so cant be bad as is!

struth
19-06-2016, 21:47
Bravo young man... super job managing all that on your own.... Sure it will be a step up

Marco
19-06-2016, 21:54
Fantastico! Looking good. A match made in heaven, no doubt :cool:

Don't 'instantly dismiss' the standard wiring, as I believe that SME have recently made some improvements in that area, and only upgrade if you're totally convinced it's worthwhile doing so. At the very least, I'd be enjoying the T/T, with the arm 'as is', for a while, until you get a proper handle on how things are sounding.

Optimised or not, mate, I bet you can't resist staying up late and listening to some choons... Been there, done that! :eyebrows:

Marco.

hermit
19-06-2016, 21:57
Superb looking deck and the SME V is really a timeless design. They look like they were made for each other. Nice job :thumbsup:

Gazjam
19-06-2016, 21:59
Bravo young man... super job managing all that on your own.... Sure it will be a step up

Thanks Guys.
Yeah, bit of a learning curve but kinda cool to know I had a bash myself.
Ultimately a rewire and J7 work his magic on it, but thats later.
Great use of a wet Sunday afternoon! :)

Much tweaking to come if Ive the time this week.

struth
19-06-2016, 22:04
big sense of achievement mate... everything sounds that bit better :D

Ali Tait
19-06-2016, 22:14
Looks good Gaz, look forward to having a listen.

Gazjam
20-06-2016, 07:42
Fantastico! Looking good. A match made in heaven, no doubt :cool:

Don't 'instantly dismiss' the standard wiring, as I believe that SME have recently made some improvements in that area, and only upgrade if you're totally convinced it's worthwhile doing so. At the very least, I'd be enjoying the T/T, with the arm 'as is', for a while, until you get a proper handle on how things are sounding.

Optimised or not, mate, I bet you can't resist staying up late and listening to some choons... Been there, done that! :eyebrows:

Marco.

yup....2ish am. :mental:
Like a burst couch this morning!

Marco
20-06-2016, 08:02
Haha, I know. It's fatal! :eyebrows:

Just think, mate, when you're at work today, you'll have the excitement of looking forward to playing with your new toy when you get back! I love that feeling :)

Marco.

Wakefield Turntables
20-06-2016, 08:27
Go just make sure you get your VTA spot on the V can be a real little shit in that respect. I'd say that this is the variable is spend most time on as when I finally perfected mine I got the best results. Secondly make sure the arm tube is perfectly level ,make sure the rear of the arm tube's arse isn't sticking up in the air. Other than that it's pretty pissball setting up a V.

Gazjam
20-06-2016, 10:39
I hear ya Rexy.
Spent a chunk of time on setup last night, so hopefully not too far from what it should be.
Templates are pretty much spot on I think?
SME instructions were superb...just follow the bouncing ball.

Setups probably not optimised but not fussed for now, its a big step up from before.
When arm is rewired I'll be asking Jonnie to take a look over the whole deck, spring bounce, cart setup and all.
So 90% there already, just enjoying the choons. :)

Bit of a Led Zep marathon last night, John Paul Jones groove is amazing, never really heard it this way before.

Spectral Morn
20-06-2016, 14:07
Well done Gary, I was going to say have ago yourself as the instructions are the best in the world re arm set up, no other comes close, but respected you maybe not feeling up to it. Anyway looking good.

Gazjam
20-06-2016, 14:23
Well done Gary, I was going to say have ago yourself as the instructions are the best in the world re arm set up, no other comes close, but respected you maybe not feeling up to it. Anyway looking good.

Glad I did Neil, good feeling of satisfaction knowing...I did that.
No doubt a "pro" level of fettle from Jonnie will leave me hanging my head in shame but hey, what can you do? ;)

One concern i had about the V going into it (considering its cost) was that it could be cold and mechanical, but Michell decks were meant to be a different story all together.
Read about that but happy to say on my deck music boogies in a way I've not my records do before, so a good result.
Tonearm for life as they say. :)

struth
20-06-2016, 14:54
You might find its done as well as it can be Gary. If its sounding that good then its likely right. Result, move on to next job... Listening, and flicking through hifi pron

Gazjam
20-06-2016, 15:32
You might find its done as well as it can be Gary. If its sounding that good then its likely right. Result, move on to next job... Listening, and flicking through hifi pron

Yeah...could have a point Grant.
Always that "what if" though, and Im a bad one for that. :D

Speaking of pron, need to stop looking at Studer R2R's...
Hearing Alan's at NEBO was a bit dangerous...

struth
20-06-2016, 15:45
Yeah...could have a point Grant.
Always that "what if" though, and Im a bad one for that. :D

Speaking or pron, need to stop looking at Studer R2R's...
Hearing Alan's at NEBO was a bit dangerous...

Aye. Ourcown mrcstewart has some nice ones too on sale... I fancy one but itcaint gonna happen. They look and sound great. Even my lowly Akai looks cool. Must see about getting itvfettled or sold tbh. Works good but could be better... Wonder if Ali is any good with them?

wee tee cee
20-06-2016, 16:16
Looking good Gary....bet JM is sounding pretty marvellous!!!

Looking forward to hearing it-will of course bring a selection of sticky buns to assist with listening.

Gazjam
20-06-2016, 16:32
Looking good Gary....bet JM is sounding pretty marvellous!!!

Looking forward to hearing it-will of course bring a selection of sticky buns to assist with listening.

Yay!

Gazjam
20-06-2016, 16:32
Aye. Ourcown mrcstewart has some nice ones too on sale... I fancy one but itcaint gonna happen. They look and sound great. Even my lowly Akai looks cool. Must see about getting itvfettled or sold tbh. Works good but could be better... Wonder if Ali is any good with them?

Sure Ali woukd take a look Grant.

Reffc
23-06-2016, 06:42
Fantastico! Looking good. A match made in heaven, no doubt :cool:

Don't 'instantly dismiss' the standard wiring, as I believe that SME have recently made some improvements in that area, and only upgrade if you're totally convinced it's worthwhile doing so. At the very least, I'd be enjoying the T/T, with the arm 'as is', for a while, until you get a proper handle on how things are sounding.

Optimised or not, mate, I bet you can't resist staying up late and listening to some choons... Been there, done that! :eyebrows:

Marco.

Spot on Marco.

A lot of utter rot is talked on forums about the standard wiring. The only thing it usually lacks is decent phono plugs but that's an easy fix for those impatient for a little more bling or better quality plugs. That aside, the wiring is purpose designed for the job, lowish capacitance, well screened and importantly, thin, light and flexible which is a MUST for not upsetting the Gyro's balance on its bouncy suspension. I make and sell a lot of cables and whilst my whole system is decked out with RFC Mercury and Pluto cabling, the only part that isn't is the cabling from my Gyro's SME arm. All I've done is to add better plugs. You simply wont achieve any sonic upgrades which can be attributable to cabling here. If you could, I would have done it years ago (and I have tried various options).

Cracking combo, the Gyro coupled with just about any of SME's tonearms and all British manufacture! :cool:

Virtual-Symmetry
23-06-2016, 10:39
End of the day Gaz, do not worry what it sounds like, it looks good that is all that matters in this hobby innit?

:)

Gazjam
23-06-2016, 10:40
End of the day Gaz, do not worry what it sounds like it looks good that is all that matters in this hobby innit?

:)

Couldn't possibly comment!

Gazjam
23-06-2016, 10:41
What's thour thoughts on the internal wiring Paul?
Is it a V you have?


Spot on Marco.

A lot of utter rot is talked on forums about the standard wiring. The only thing it usually lacks is decent phono plugs but that's an easy fix for those impatient for a little more bling or better quality plugs. That aside, the wiring is purpose designed for the job, lowish capacitance, well screened and importantly, thin, light and flexible which is a MUST for not upsetting the Gyro's balance on its bouncy suspension. I make and sell a lot of cables and whilst my whole system is decked out with RFC Mercury and Pluto cabling, the only part that isn't is the cabling from my Gyro's SME arm. All I've done is to add better plugs. You simply wont achieve any sonic upgrades which can be attributable to cabling here. If you could, I would have done it years ago (and I have tried various options).

Cracking combo, the Gyro coupled with just about any of SME's tonearms and all British manufacture! :cool:

Virtual-Symmetry
23-06-2016, 10:41
o go on ;)

struth
23-06-2016, 11:01
Now now behave.

Virtual-Symmetry
23-06-2016, 11:03
Sup grant you dont wanna hear the truth about audio enthusiasts?

;)

YNWaN
23-06-2016, 11:04
There does seem to be a fashion for arm cables that are just re-terminated interconnects; often this means they are both rather thick and rather too stiff - neither are desirable traits for suspended turntables as the cable will effectively bypass the suspension and possibly make it very difficult (if not impossible) to set up properly.

Gazjam
23-06-2016, 11:22
Sup grant you dont wanna hear the truth about audio enthusiasts?

;)

Dinnae be silly Andr'e. :)

Reffc
23-06-2016, 23:50
What's thour thoughts on the internal wiring Paul?
Is it a V you have?

I've got the 309 Magnesium arm and have no plans to upgrade anytime soon. Internal wiring is spot on and zero benefit from changing. I'd urge anyone thinking about it to save their pennies and concentrate on cartridge or phonostage rather than arm wiring unless using vintage arms with old and corroded non OFC internal wiring.;)

Gazjam
24-06-2016, 07:43
Cool.
Ok mate, food for thought.

Vince
26-06-2016, 16:50
That looks lovely, I've got the same deck but in silver and yours just looks so, so, sexier. Very Nice

Virtual-Symmetry
26-06-2016, 16:52
If it were not for that Headshell on the '309' id say save your pennies but im afraid if was buying an SME i personally would not go higher than a 'IV'

Gazjam
27-06-2016, 18:01
That looks lovely, I've got the same deck but in silver and yours just looks so, so, sexier. Very Nice

Thanks man, getting there.

Gazjam
27-06-2016, 18:02
If it were not for that Headshell on the '309' id say save your pennies but im afraid if was buying an SME i personally would not go higher than a 'IV'

Second hand buy Andre and it was an itch I've had for a long time.
Hummed n hawed for a while about it then a minty example came up for a good price...

Gazjam
22-07-2016, 09:26
(Final?) Update coming soon... :eyebrows:

Ali Tait
22-07-2016, 18:52
Whatcha done now??

Wakefield Turntables
22-07-2016, 18:59
(Final?) Update coming soon... :eyebrows:


YANNIS ?

struth
22-07-2016, 19:23
You've painted it all pink ;)

Gazjam
22-07-2016, 22:42
YANNIS ?

Not yet, cable change and internal rewire on the list though.
The Bat-Table is almost ready... :D

struth
29-07-2016, 21:40
How's the new arm getting on Gary?

Gazjam
29-07-2016, 23:21
Its a major step change from the Tecnoarm Grant, just....better.

Taking the deck into Jonny tommorow to give it a pro level fettle at Loud n Clear in Glasgow (his Saturday gig) and the deck will be.....

....ALMOST done. :)

struth
30-07-2016, 10:57
Great stuff...

OD1
01-08-2016, 13:26
Your deck looks gorgeous :stalks:, I've got the SE in silver with a black arm (OL Encounter 3C) and after seeing yours I wanna black one too ..............

Gazjam
09-08-2016, 08:47
Thanks Oliver,
Yeah, have a bit of a thing for black kit me....



Your deck looks gorgeous :stalks:, I've got the SE in silver with a black arm (OL Encounter 3C) and after seeing yours I wanna black one too ..............

Gazjam
09-08-2016, 18:52
Speaking of black...the deck's now lost the bling and had a few other tweaks.
Much happier with both looks and sound now.
meet the Bat-Table. :)
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/9c5194d048e4248f356020a95dffdccc_zpsujgsgomz.jpg (http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/9c5194d048e4248f356020a95dffdccc_zpsujgsgomz.jpg.h tml)

Had an Orbe platter before when I had the Technoarm but the deck sounded a bit dead and shut in on some albums, and the Gyro platter gave a bit of extra sparkle which gave those albums a sense of life about them and I preferred the sound.
So sold the Orbe platter and kept the Gyro one.

With the SME V in play the sound of the deck changed dramatically over the Technoarm I had in before. So had a rethink about the platter....
Can now hear the improvement the Orbe platter brings, particularly in the bass which with the V is "rifle bolt" tight and goes really deep. Really deep.
Had J7 set the deck up for me too, so everythings set up as it should be.
Sounds great, really really happy.

Arm rewire in the future, POSSIBLY a cart upgrade if funds are there and I'll call vinyl done.

With the Orbe Platter kit, you get a pack of "Densodamp", which is the anti resonance compound to be stuck under the decks chassis to eliminate ringing.
Think ultra sticky blutak.

As my deck already had the compound fitted I took the opportunity to use it to apply other tweaks elsewhere.
I stripped the decks motor (really easy) and applied it to the inside of the motors housing and base, which is in two parts, aluminum tube and heavy solid base.
Damped the inside of the tube and the interface where the two parts meet to make the motor housing noticeably heavier and completely dead.
I also lined the clamp with a layer of the damping compound which again, made it completely inert vibration wise.
My thinking was it couldn't hurt and as the theory was sound I thought it might even be a good tweak?

The platter was fitted around a week so was familiar with the improved sound I had over the Gyro platter, so sat down to listen once the damping compound was applied.

:)
Another boost in sound quality, greater sense of space and physicality of instruments in space.
Overall impression was of more control, but a more free-flowing higher resolution sound which motored along nicely, timing and interplay between the band being noticeably more obvious.
Soundstage was already beyond and behind the speakers, but the damping brought more 3D to the table and a greater sense of the room acoustic of the recording.

Listening to Allman Brothers at Filmmore was a real hairs on the back of the neck type of listen, loved it.
Just sounded...live and in the room.
Not hifi, but guys in a band in a room playing off each other...boogied like a bugger.

Happy days, decks almost done now but the important thing is its a big step up from the Gyro platter even with the SME in play.
Reckon I'm hearing more of what the arm is capable of now.
http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/22fccde01cd85d347ca3ada122c3385e_zpstubplpyo.jpg (http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/22fccde01cd85d347ca3ada122c3385e_zpstubplpyo.jpg.h tml)

(http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/9c5194d048e4248f356020a95dffdccc_zpsujgsgomz.jpg.h tml)
(http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/7be0af3ca0a471eff2fcb78a79fc5180_zpsqjjjtqvu.jpg.h tml)http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/00bd1ad524ccb27e6b0672c0d59a33ec_zpsbja2ipdc.jpg (http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/00bd1ad524ccb27e6b0672c0d59a33ec_zpsbja2ipdc.jpg.h tml)
(http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/9c5194d048e4248f356020a95dffdccc_zpsujgsgomz.jpg.h tml)http://i434.photobucket.com/albums/qq61/gazjamster/60d0771e40acdb2d069a4f47ffd799ab_zpsrzczv9mh.jpg (http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/60d0771e40acdb2d069a4f47ffd799ab_zpsrzczv9mh.jpg.h tml)

(http://s434.photobucket.com/user/gazjamster/media/9c5194d048e4248f356020a95dffdccc_zpsujgsgomz.jpg.h tml)

struth
09-08-2016, 19:11
Looks very smart Gaz. .. bar the hairy stump ;)

Gazjam
09-08-2016, 19:17
My best feature!

Firebottle
10-08-2016, 05:30
Nice one Gaz :guitar:

Ali Tait
10-08-2016, 06:51
Looks good Gaz, looking forward to hearing this.

Marco
10-08-2016, 06:59
My best feature!

Aye, I've heard you're fond of yer hairy stump! :eyebrows:

T/T's looking great, mate, minus the bling... Glad it sounds better too - synergy, eh? :)

Must be a finished project now, unless you plan to upgrade the cartridge further down the line?

Marco.

brian2957
10-08-2016, 07:20
Very nice mate , I'll have to get over and get a listen .

AlfaGTV
21-08-2016, 18:21
Decided to try the Technoarm when one came up for sale! So i headed down a similar street to to you Gaz, but in the other direction!
http://www.ollars.net/hififorum/michell_techno.jpg

To my ears the Orbe/Gorbe does indeed make both arms perform top notch! And yes, the SME V is a clear improvement, but when considering price the Technoarm is the sensible choice. At least to me! :) But, on the other hand, whoever claimed this hobby to be "sensible"?

TazSob
21-08-2016, 22:43
That's a lovely set up there and very clean... Hard to believe it's the same TT

gwernaffield
22-06-2017, 22:14
Hi All my name is peter
i have been tweaking my deck for a couple of months i hope it looks ok to you all,



http://theartofsound.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=20572&d=1498169563ter , http://theartofsound.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=20571&d=1498169561

struth
22-06-2017, 22:48
Very nice Peter. an interesting weight or clamp too....

http://theartofsound.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=20571&d=1498169561

gwernaffield
26-06-2017, 19:05
Hi the weight is the oyaide stb hwx inported from japan , would of been worth doing that but the customs duty VAT was £49 ,it is also the heavest one they do ,720grm
The Brush was inported from germany JR TRANSROTOR, and was not cheap at all ,but i could not get anything like it in the UK , cheers20638
The arm is a techno arm with the michell upgraded weight, also just rewired by michell and adjusted to the latest spec by Jonathan Nye