Automatic platter centering TT

[Audio Al]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rUgOUftRSjk

Quite neat :)

[struth]

I like that. Very cool. .

[Beobloke]

Nice, but far too small and compact. The Nakamichi TX-1000 is the one to have - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5O7ssQB4Y8

:youtheman: :drool:

[Oldpinkman]

But if you have a direct drive turntable with fantastic speed accuracy doesn't that overcome records with off-centre holes? :sofa:

[Tarzan]

But if you have a direct drive turntable with fantastic speed accuracy doesn't that overcome records with off-centre holes? :sofa:

:interesting:

[Big Vern]

Nice, but far too small and compact. The Nakamichi TX-1000 is the one to have - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5O7ssQB4Y8

:youtheman: :drool:

For those who may be interested - pauses :) - this explains some of the thinking behind the TX-1000/Dragon CT designs.

http://www.positive-feedback.com/Issue33/tx1000.htm

Essentially, they do the same thing, it's just the TX-1000 is bigger, heavier and uses motors in the main platter to adjust the uppermost glass platter, rather than the 'nudging' arrangement used on the Dragon CT. If you are sensitive to pitch variations, then the TX-1000/CT are quite remarkable - I have a copy of Innervisions, which is just about at the 0.5mm limit (yes, really - that's as 'off' as it goes). Basically, I find the last few tracks un-listenable...until the TX-1000 does its thing...there is no denying that the facility turns a no go LP into a happy listening experience.

Those who have listened to the TX-1000 (I believe Marco has at some point) sometimes make the observation that the glass platter is a limiting feature, making the sound a tad sterile. Fortunately, if this is your view as an owner, you can ameliorate the effect by changing the glass platter; a number of owners have used the Micro Seiki CU180 to great effect. I use the Harmonix, atop the original glass mat...once the record is in situ and brushed, the centering facility does its thing and you just leave the record in place, so as not to cancel the effects of the centering facility...it measures down to 0.01mm, so moving the record, even on the spindle, post operation could impact.

As for making one today - I guess it would be more straightforward with modern technology/materials - however, I would surmise the cost would still be high and, back in the early 80s (and certainly over here), Nakamichi did not convince enough people to either adopt the technology or other manufacturers to have a go themselves. That said, the TX-1000 is superbly made by any standards and, set up properly with the correct accessories, it is capable of amazing results.

Best Wishes,

Paul.