View Full Version : Tannoy Berkeley
Berkeley MK1 - worth checking out or not? I've finally persuaded The Boss the we 'need' better/bigger speakers in our living room. I'm limited by what I can see or hear locally and there is a pair that I can go see but probably not hear tomorrow, although I could take an amp and use my phone to play something through them to make sure they're fine.
Or is there something else similar I should look at instead. The Boss has said the size and look of the Berkeleys is fine so any alternative would not need to be much bigger [emoji6]
I've read most of the posts on here and other forums and the general consensus seems to be that the 15" drivers need a bigger cabinet, but very little in the way of actual sound quality or reviews.
For reference they are 33"x"21x12"
Thoughts anyone?
Eatons are highly ratedTa, I'll go have a read [emoji4]
montesquieu
30-09-2017, 16:43
It;s my opinion not from ownership but from observation (I stand to be corrected if anyone has measurements kicking around) that the HPD in the Berkley is capable of far better performance than the 15in Gold in the earlier equivalent cabinet (Lancaster) mainly because their bass response is better anyway.
So it's far from a bad option, whereas the Lancaster cabinets will pretty much always disappoint to some extent. (Indeed they sound better with 12in Golds than with the far more common 15in Golds). Lancaster cabs do need replacing with GRF cabs, Lockwoods, or some other option.
So if you can get the Berkleys for sensible dosh (and I'd hesitate to say what that is these days? £1500?) then go ahead. You might want to have new cabs built later but it won't be essential immediately. I wouldn't put them in a small room though.
Ammonite Audio
30-09-2017, 16:49
Coincidentally, I’ve just bought a pair of Mk1 Berkeleys, with relatively recent Lockwood replacement cone surrounds, to go in a friend’s trendy mid-century modern furniture shop as part of a vintage but stylish system. They do sound quite decent and will look lovely once I’ve cleaned up and re-invigorated the slightly grubby veneer with some Danish oil.
The Berkeleys are about the same size as the Lancasters that I once bought with 15” Monitor Gold drivers, but clearly the HPD drivers are a much better match for the modest size (and in this case reflex ported) cabinets.
Art Dudley keeps a pair of Berkeleys as a long term reference, which is a pretty good recommendation. I was pleased to find out that the driver magnets are Alnico.
walpurgis
30-09-2017, 16:55
Definitely worth a look.
Check the cone surrounds, if they have splits or show any sagging then factor in the cost of reconing. Probably getting on for £500 from Lockwood these days. If they have never been done, no doubt they will need it soon. (I do my own repairs, but most wouldn't take it on)
The crossovers might need recapping. Paul at RFC can help with this.
The cabinets can be improved with a bit of sensible added internal bracing.
Don't let the above put you off 'cos it sounds like hassle. It's worth doing. A good pair of Berkeleys can sound spectacular and they are an investment, as values have been rising steadily for years.
Ammonite Audio
30-09-2017, 17:04
A good pair of Berkeleys can sound spectacular and they are an investment, as values have been rising steadily for years.
I’m not sure if that’s strictly accurate. I did a brief search of ‘sold’ prices on eBay before settling on a price for my Berkeleys, and concluded that the going rate was rather higher a few years ago.
Thanks for all the info everyone, I'll arrange to go and see them tomorrow. I'll check all the relevant parts etc.
Will hopefully update tomorrow [emoji6]
dantheman91
30-09-2017, 19:05
Are these the ones mike? https://www.gumtree.com/p/speakers/tannoy-berkeley-speakers/1268364186
No idea of the surrounds though as no pictures...
Definitely worth a look.
Check the cone surrounds, if they have splits or show any sagging then factor in the cost of reconing. Probably getting on for £500 from Lockwood these days. If they have never been done, no doubt they will need it soon. (I do my own repairs, but most wouldn't take it on)
The crossovers might need recapping. Paul at RFC can help with this.
The cabinets can be improved with a bit of sensible added internal bracing.
Don't let the above put you off 'cos it sounds like hassle. It's worth doing. A good pair of Berkeleys can sound spectacular and they are an investment, as values have been rising steadily for years.
I have very similar Lockwood Academy with the same HPD 385 drivers and have to agree with Geoff. A full recone at Lockwood was £380 two years ago. The scale of sound should blow your mind, it's like having someone actually singing in your room, not a pair of speakers. Bass is surprisingly tight, not overblown at all. They will show any difficiencies upstream, so can sound either fantastic or just ok if fed from lesser equipment. They just get better and better with equipment upgrades.
The internal cabling and plug into the driver were pretty poor in mine. I rewired with simple tinned copper wire and gold plated plugs from mainlytannoy on eBay. I find the tinned copper wire the best for speaker cable too. They have a natural tone rather than a brightly lit "hifi" sound.
Hope that helps.
1 owner from new and not seen the light of day for a few years, and after the comments here I'm a bit dubious as to what condition the drivers might be in. Cabinets look mint though but I'm sure that's no indication of the condition of the cones or surrounds. If any issue at all I'll walk away as it would be too much hassle having them sent away and fixed and wouldn't be worth it in my opinion, might be better to try and find a perfect pair, but then again most of the decent high gear is always for sale 100's of miles away.
I've already arranged to go see/listen to them this morning but I think I'd have been better asking for photos of the drivers before even leaving the house.
You never know mike. Good luck
Are these the ones mike? https://www.gumtree.com/p/speakers/tannoy-berkeley-speakers/1268364186
No idea of the surrounds though as no pictures...Sorry, missed this post, yeah that's the ones. Pity no driver photos but I think they're worth a look anyway?
You never know mike. Good luckAye that's true enough, still worth a look. Nothing else planned today anyway [emoji6]
dantheman91
01-10-2017, 06:39
Sorry, missed this post, yeah that's the ones. Pity no driver photos but I think they're worth a look anyway?
They look very clean.....you never know with the drivers deffo worth a look....
1 owner from new and not seen the light of day for a few years, and after the comments here I'm a bit dubious as to what condition the drivers might be in. Cabinets look mint though but I'm sure that's no indication of the condition of the cones or surrounds. If any issue at all I'll walk away as it would be too much hassle having them sent away and fixed and wouldn't be worth it in my opinion, might be better to try and find a perfect pair, but then again most of the decent high gear is always for sale 100's of miles away.
I've already arranged to go see/listen to them this morning but I think I'd have been better asking for photos of the drivers before even leaving the house.
If the drivers haven't been done they probably will need done. Mine had a few small splits running outwards across the foam but still sounded great. If you got these for £1k and spent £500 on them you'll have a truly great pair of speakers for £1500, still a lot of money but try buying something similar new, probably about £5k. These look to be in great condition too. You can get the recone done at Tannoy Coatbridge as far as I know.
If the drivers haven't been done they probably will need done. Mine had a few small splits running outwards across the foam but still sounded great. If you got these for £1k and spent £500 on them you'll have a truly great pair of speakers for £1500, still a lot of money but try buying something similar new, probably about £5k. These look to be in great condition too. You can get the recone done at Tannoy Coatbridge as far as I know.Thanks, that's good to know about Coatbridge. I'll be haggling don't worry.
I'll be haggling don't worry.
:)
walpurgis
01-10-2017, 08:54
a truly great pair of speakers for £1500, still a lot of money but try buying something similar new, probably about £5k
Try doubling that or more. Even the new, small Tannoy Eaton is about five grand now. These Berkeleys are worth some effort, even if they do require a recone. The modern equivalents are monstrously expensive.
walpurgis
01-10-2017, 09:02
If it was me and they needed new surrounds, I'd be going this route: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2-TANNOY-foam-surrounds-15-HPD385-speaker-correctly-perforated-GENUINE-/162636420016?hash=item25dde2d3b0:g:beAAAOSwsE5ZluV I
A bit of practicality and common sense and it's not too difficult a job. I've done it :).
Surprised the wife will allow them:D Big suckers
Try doubling that or more. Even the new, small Tannoy Eaton is about five grand now. These Berkeleys are worth some effort, even if they do require a recone. The modern equivalents are monstrously expensive.
The reissue Ardens are just shy of £7K, don't know how they'd compare to the originals.
walpurgis
01-10-2017, 09:21
The reissue Ardens are just shy of £7K, don't know how they'd compare to the originals.
They won't compare.
The 'new' Arden uses a tulip waveguide driver. These are in my opinion, inferior to the Alnico magnet 'pepperpot' drivers.
The nearest real equivalent to the 15" HPD Berkeley is the current Canterbury GR and they are a whopping twenty grand a pair!
They won't compare.
The 'new' Arden uses a tulip waveguide driver. These are in my opinion, inferior to the Alnico magnet 'pepperpot' drivers.
The nearest real equivalent to the 15" HPD Berkeley is the current Canterbury GR and they are a whopping twenty grand a pair!
Interesting, didn't know that, thanks Geoff.
Well.......... They're now sitting in my living room, just getting my breath back after carrying them in lol
Don't worry that the boxes are upside down that's just the way we boxed them [emoji6]
Another update soon [emoji4]
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/7f9437884655e6420a8016de5249f8df.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/3289cacff4e7732b8e561dfc788837a8.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/df6296dfd7d589cc96efca1d835355bd.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/acc96ead43d82f338afc1428001a9697.jpg
hope u used a firemans lift:eyebrows: great buy, and sure you got summat off. need to hear them sometime
So the drivers were okay then? Should be good. Get the wrapping off!
Firebottle
01-10-2017, 11:37
OOH good one Mike, lets hope they hit the spot. (Good work on the other half :eyebrows:)
Off topic I know but what is this latest fad for living room rugs that look like bath mats from the 'Seventies? There was a red one the other day, and now this.
farflungstar
01-10-2017, 11:49
Off topic I know but what is this latest fad for living room rugs that look like bath mats from the 'Seventies? There was a red one the other day, and now this.Oí - that was my red rug! Lol. I have a cow skin - would that suit you better?
Oí - that was my red rug! Lol. I have a cow skin - would that suit you better?
Yes, or Zebra skin even better :)
Reminds me, my barber raised a good point the other day: why does no-one ride Zebras? They are basically the same as a horse but look much cooler.
Sorry, just killing time while Mikey gets these things set up.
farflungstar
01-10-2017, 11:54
Yes, or Zebra skin even better :)
Reminds me, my barber raised a good point the other day: why does no-one ride Zebras? They are basically the same as a horse but look much cooler.
Sorry, just killing time while Mikey gets these things set up.I also have zebra skin...
I also have zebra skin...
Get that red thing down the tip then.
farflungstar
01-10-2017, 12:13
Get that red thing down the tip then.Wth a marble floor the large soft red rug helps dampen reflections... Much better than the zebra or cow.
Anyway this is off topic...
Think these are ok [emoji4]
Bought in 1976, 1 owner since then and been boxed for at least a decade, he nearly didn't sell them when I put some music through them [emoji6]https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/61e9eda50753fe0f34869175dfcaa911.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/445603402a7a17cac19446d416a038e1.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/99742808774026438a6b6b0022b7ef8e.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/2a6aea6127cbcccf94462e1914e635f3.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/9410c4c77e61caca613d54bb6b517e7e.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/a956794321aa540a3d5128d7ea0b151b.jpg
Mind you The Boss hasn't seen them yet and she's, let's just say, not in the best of humour today, so I'll hopefully still be around later [emoji23]
farflungstar
01-10-2017, 12:20
Lovely...
Look fine. maybe very short stands to raise them a little; depends how low you sit
Look the PMC's are taller [emoji6]
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/73e5887596556bef668e6e6d8db168a2.jpg
go buy here flowers....always works
go buy here flowers....always worksACH she got some on Monday that I bought on the way home from work and all she said was..... " What have you been up to? " [emoji23]
I said " Nothing yet" now that's coming back to haunt me lol
Wow, those are in some nick, lovely!
The surrounds look just like my old ones but without the rips :)
No going back now, Tannoys are awesome :D
ACH she got some on Monday that I bought on the way home from work and all she said was..... " What have you been up to? " [emoji23]
I said " Nothing yet" now that's coming back to haunt me lol
used to buy mine some very regular. also little gifts; you know the sort of thing..... amps, speakers etc :D
walpurgis
01-10-2017, 13:11
That's the tidiest pair I've seen for years. They look stunning!
The cone surrounds are in one piece, but showing slight signs of age (yellowing/bubbling). You can extend their life by doping them. Use Aleene's Original Tacky Glue. That's what I did mine with and it came out perfect. It leaves a very slightly tacky surface, just as the original coating did. It's water soluble, but DON'T drip any on the cones.
Once you tune your ears into what these can do you'll love them.
walpurgis
01-10-2017, 13:14
By the way. If it hasn't already been done, a favourite mod, is to fit banana sockets instead of the annoying small cable grip terminals.
That's the tidiest pair I've seen for years. They look stunning!
The cone surrounds are in one piece, but showing slight signs of age (yellowing/bubbling). You can extend their life by doping them. Use Aleene's Original Tacky Glue. That's what I did mine with and it came out perfect. It leaves a very slightly tacky surface, just as the original coating did. It's water soluble, but DON'T drip any on the cones.
Once you tune your ears into what these can do you'll love them.
Ive got some of that somewhere. I did my Rola's with it
dantheman91
01-10-2017, 13:30
What did you pay mike? they really are the best pair i have seen...
walpurgis
01-10-2017, 13:37
What did you pay mike? they really are the best pair i have seen...
They look even tidier than my Cheviot's! :)
They look fantastic. How can your wife possibly object? They fit into the room like pieces of furniture.
not said how they sound in your room yet
My wife just wanted to know how many sets of speakers I really need!! They look real lovely , Mikey :king:
Ok thanks for all the positive comments, The Boss has said they can stay [emoji4]
They cost me - a figure that was agreeable to myself and the seller [emoji23]
Having seen them in the flesh and the fact that he was a nice guy and was quite sad to see them go, but figured he'd rather see them be used and go to a good home. I'll be honest I didn't even bother haggling, the money that I transferred went straight into the account he'd set up for his daughters, kind of reminded me of myself and how the little bastards bleed you dry, sorry did I say that out loud, I'm kidding of course I give my kids everything and he was the same, he had offered them the speakers for nothing but neither of them wanted them, which led to the sale.
They are almost flawless, with only one or two tiny marks if you look closely. In my mind I'd bought them as soon as I laid eyes on them in that condition. As for the 'real' cost, well my wife haggled and ended up with the agreement that we decorate the living room, paint the external woodwork on the house and buy a new suite, BITCH! [emoji16][emoji16][emoji16][emoji16][emoji16]
Mind you, the next paragraph will explain why I still think I got a good deal [emoji6]
As for how do they sound in my living room, well on a scale of 1-10 with 10 being best, I'd have to say 11! Absolutely stunning, this is the sound I've been looking for since I joined AoS, and boy once you crank them up, jings do they kick ass, with the PMC's I usually have them loud enough to hear them in the kitchen when cooking or at meal times, however turning up the wick on these I'm now feeling them in the kitchen too [emoji23]
I love live music and this is as close as I'm going to get in our living room, awesome.
Thanks to all who posted and made me get out the door this morning as I very nearly didn't go.
To say I'm delighted is an understatement.
walpurgis
01-10-2017, 15:21
Thanks to all who posted and made me get out the door this morning as I very nearly didn't go.
To say I'm delighted is an understatement.
Told ya! :)
Did you read my bit about doping the surrounds? It'll probably extend their life by about five years.
What amp are you driving them with Mike?
Told ya! :)
Did you read my bit about doping the surrounds? It'll probably extend their life by about five years.
What amp are you driving them with Mike?I did, I'll look into that but I'm no DIY expert I'd be scared to balls it up, but I don't suppose it can be too difficult.
I'm using an EWA M-50 power amp I bought from Colin Wonfor and it's connected to an Auralic Taurus Pre Amp that I have on demo just now, the M-50 is seriously good for what I paid for it, it's the first amp that got my PMC's going and it sounds great through the Tannoys.
I said to the guy I bought the Tannoys from that I hoped these were my last pair of speakers, right now, these ain't going anywhere!
My wife just wanted to know how many sets of speakers I really need!! They look real lovely , Mikey :king:They are superb, I can't wipe the grin off my face [emoji6]
They look fantastic. How can your wife possibly object? They fit into the room like pieces of furniture.Yeah I think they look great too, they actually take up less room than the PMC's. The Boss took some convincing, but she should know by now just to give in at the start, cos I always get what I want anyway [emoji4]
I honestly don't know what I'd do without her, a true soul mate [emoji6]
Firebottle
01-10-2017, 15:59
Thank the heavens you have now got the sound you knew you were missing all along :eyebrows:
Really pleased for ya :thumbsup:
I assume vinyl has never sounded so good.
Thank the heavens you have now got the sound you knew you were missing all along :eyebrows:
Really pleased for ya [emoji106]
I assume vinyl has never sounded so good.Yeah, I've no doubt been like the proverbial broken record [emoji23]
EVERYTHING sounds superb, busy listening to Spotify just now as I can't be bothered moving from my seat [emoji6]
Wrong thread, damn Tapatalk lol
Really pleased for you Mike, knew as soon as you heard them you'd be hooked and they are such minters. I've heard the 12" HPDs and feel they have more delicacy for classical music but the 15"s have more balls and scale for rock etc. They look well in your room too.
What settings have you got the treble and roll-off at?
brian2957
01-10-2017, 17:17
Well done Mike , the big Tannoys look fantastic in your room . I'll have to get over for a listen mate . I use Tannoy 637s but have never heard any of their larger models . '' Cat and cream '' come to mind here . Enjoy :)
Think these are ok [emoji4]
Bought in 1976, 1 owner since then and been boxed for at least a decade, he nearly didn't sell them when I put some music through them [emoji6]https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/61e9eda50753fe0f34869175dfcaa911.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/445603402a7a17cac19446d416a038e1.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/99742808774026438a6b6b0022b7ef8e.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/2a6aea6127cbcccf94462e1914e635f3.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/9410c4c77e61caca613d54bb6b517e7e.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171001/a956794321aa540a3d5128d7ea0b151b.jpg
oooh they look lovely mike,i bet your well pleased,i really must hear a good pair of tannoys one day.
walpurgis
01-10-2017, 17:30
Mike. Take the drivers out and turn them through 180 degrees. This will allow any cone surround sag to correct itself. This is best done with the cabinets on their backs, as the drivers are very heavy and will shoot outwards if unbolted whilst vertical. You may find the drive units need some gentle persuasion to lift free, they stick to the black baffle paint a bit sometimes. Use care.
Having them out would also give you a good opportunity to dope the surround foam more easily. I can advise if you decide to do this. You could look through my Tannoy renovation thread. http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?19555-My-new-(vintage)-Tannoy-Cheviots There's quite a lot of it, but it will give you some pointers.
This could also be a good time to upgrade the rear terminals.
Fantastic condition enclosures/cones but in my opinion those surrounds are shot so will need refoaming. You can see the top curve of the foam how they have lost all their support/collapsing and are drooping-it isn't just an appearance issue.
While I'm here I'm happy to own both the 15DMT mk2(3833), Arden1 (385 HPD); Arden 1 goes lower, DMT is cleaner has a more articulate bass, more detailed but civilised mid/treble less honk and clearer mids-but the result is less projection/character/colouration-your choice.;-).
walpurgis
01-10-2017, 17:52
You can see the top of the foam how they have lost all their support/collapsing and are drooping-it isn't just an appearance issue.
Yes. That's why I suggested rotating them. It will help for the time being. Doping will make them a bit stronger too and afford some delay in the need to recone/refoam.
I'm afraid I'm not near going them as I'm liable to kill them all together. I hate DIY with a passion and have no patience for it I'm afraid. I'm better at software and technical issues which is why my kids call me gadget man, as well as Red Mike [emoji34]
I'm afraid I'm not near going them as I'm liable to kill them all together. I hate DIY with a passion and have no patience for it I'm afraid. I'm better at software and technical issues which is why my kids call me gadget man, as well as Red Mike [emoji34]
If Lockwood do them they'll stick the surround on the front of the cone-a quick and dirty method imho, If Paul(or I or Geoff) was doing the job they'd be done on the rear of the cone as they really should be.
walpurgis
01-10-2017, 18:53
If Lockwood do them they'll stick the surround on the front of the cone-a quick and dirty method imho, If Paul(or I or Geoff) was doing the job they'd be done on the rear of the cone as they really should be.
Lockwood no longer fit replacement cone surrounds. They only fit whole cone/surround sets now.
Lockwood no longer fit replacement cone surrounds. They only fit whole cone/surround sets now.
Cheers Geoff, Best news I’ve had this week!
The cones look in nice condition...seems a shame to needlessly junk them.
Mind you, I re did the surrounds on two pairs of 15" HPDs a bit ago...took pretty well all day each pair. And before you say anything, Cooky & Co, I did replace them on the back of the cone.
walpurgis
01-10-2017, 22:06
Yes. Tannoy dual concentrics are not really difficult to work on. It just requires a bit of patience, care and practicality. I have a cone substitution to take on, converting a pair of 2528 drivers (Ascot etc.) to SRM 10B spec. I'm rather disorganised and take a while to get around to projects though! :rolleyes:
You can get the recone done at Tannoy Coatbridge as far as I know.
Unfortunately they've move that side of the business to Kidderminster [emoji17]
Kidderminster isn't far from me, Mike (about an hour or so away). Could you get down to Glasgow with them?
If you were willing to meet me in Glasgow, with the Berkleys, next time I'm up visiting friends, which is likely to be in the next month or so (defo before Xmas), I could take them safely down to Tannoy's premises in Kidderminster, to get them refurbished, and bring them back up safely when they're ready? :)
Nae bother to me; in fact as a Tannoy user and fan myself, I'd enjoy visiting their premises and seeing the results of the finished articles, so just let me know if you fancy it! :cool:
Marco.
walpurgis
03-10-2017, 15:10
That's a nice offer Marco.
Great idea for Mike to get the speakers to optimum condition. With the super cabinet condition, they'd be like new afterwards.
They look good Mike. Have the drivers been removed before? I only ask as there appear to be some bolts missing.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171003/e75175e4d5aeff8672d2d499e739a783.jpg
walpurgis
03-10-2017, 15:58
That's a point. They should be Allen bolts too. Not hex head.
walpurgis
03-10-2017, 16:24
Just been Googling pictures. Some Berkeleys have only four mounting holes in the chassis, others eight, but all seem to use four bolts, and they are hex head. Seems my recollection was defective. :)
Ditto [emoji846]
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171003/1e9f82c4442a919652700a09e81d1f78.jpg
Ammonite Audio
03-10-2017, 16:55
Just been Googling pictures. Some Berkeleys have only four mounting holes in the chassis, others eight, but all seem to use four bolts, and they are hex head. Seems my recollection was defective. :)
The pair that I've bought have four hex head bolts per drive unit.
I *think* the earlier 15" HPDs were 8 hole chassis like the monitor golds and the later ones were 4 hole mounting. Mine have a Feb. 1980 date under the dust cover on the rear of the driver and are 4 hole. The surrounds on Mike's look very similar to what was on mine which showed evidence of having been worked on before so maybe the original surrounds were changed in the 90s and are now due for replacement again. I suppose you could ask the owner if they were ever done Mike. 40 odd years seems a long time for foam surrounds to last but I'm not very knowledgeable about these things!
Photo of mine
http://i1229.photobucket.com/albums/ee462/castle48/Lockwoods/07B09DA5-AA33-4B97-86CA-4C3C7DEA2497.jpg (http://s1229.photobucket.com/user/castle48/media/Lockwoods/07B09DA5-AA33-4B97-86CA-4C3C7DEA2497.jpg.html)
walpurgis
03-10-2017, 17:13
My Cheviot II's were 1978 year and still on original surrounds that were on their very last legs. I replaced them shortly after buying the speakers about five years ago. So that's about 34 years.
Unfortunately they've move that side of the business to Kidderminster [emoji17]
That's a pity. I spoke with them at Coatbridge in May 2016 and they were still doing it then but strangely recommended Lockwoods in London.
Very charitable offer from Marco but it's a long time without speakers!
Providing Tannoy could complete what's required within a month, I could get them back to him within that time, as I'd be up in Glasgow again in the New Year. Anyway, the offer is there :)
Marco.
Providing Tannoy could complete what's required within a month, I could get them back to him within that time, as I'd be up in Glasgow again in the New Year. Anyway, the offer is there :)
Marco.Hi Marco,
That's a brilliant offer, I phoned Tannoy today but they were unsure if they had stock of cones etc to do the job and I was told to email them to check.
Once I get a reply with cost and timescale I'll be in touch if that's ok.
I've had a quote from Lockwood Audio so at least I know how much it could be. Mind you the guy at Tannoy that I spoke to today thought they 'should' have someone who could do the work which wasn't very reassuring [emoji848]
No worries, Mikey, just keep me posted :cool:
Marco.
No worries, Mikey, just keep me posted :cool:
Marco.Cheers, will do [emoji6]
They look good Mike. Have the drivers been removed before? I only ask as there appear to be some bolts missing.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171003/e75175e4d5aeff8672d2d499e739a783.jpg
My Arden 1's use 4 bolts(I changed them to Hex socket) but an 8 hole basket.
https://farm1.staticflickr.com/568/31492265406_5415e8ec7b_c.jpg
What's the going rate for a Tannoy or Lockwood installed recone job these days?
walpurgis
04-10-2017, 10:06
What's the going rate for a Tannoy or Lockwood installed recone job these days?
That's already been mentioned in the thread, but for 15" HPD's, probably approaching £500 (as opposed to around £50 to fit new surrounds yourself).
My Arden 1's use 4 bolts(I changed them to Hex socket) but an 8 hole basket.
Odd, makes them look unfinished.
Lockwood recone is £420 and that incudes the refoam with new stiffer surround used in new Tannoys.
So I'm going that route as it will save money in the long run and give me new voice coils too [emoji6]
Just waiting to organise sending them down.
Marco, thanks for the offer of taking them to Tannoy for me but having been wary of them saying that they should have someone that could do the work, I've heard that they actually don't, and they couldn't tell me if they had the relevant parts available unless I emailed them ?
So Lockwood Audio it is.
Odd, makes them look unfinished.It does, my ones are as they came from factory, the owner said he'd used for the first few years of ownership then they were boxed and stored.
Hmm, I/ve got some very short hex socket bolts that could be popped into the blank /unused holes just for the look of it. I really dislike the original hex bolts, they look like an afterthought.
might be to allow a little flex, or because the build quality of the cabinets wasnt that tight; or both;)
walpurgis
04-10-2017, 10:29
Lockwood recone is £420 and that incudes the refoam with new stiffer surround used in new Tannoys.
So I'm going that route as it will save money in the long run and give me new voice coils too [emoji6]
Just waiting to organise sending them down.
Marco, thanks for the offer of taking them to Tannoy for me but having been wary of them saying that they should have someone that could do the work, I've heard that they actually don't, and they couldn't tell me if they had the relevant parts available unless I emailed them ?
So Lockwood Audio it is.
Lockwood are being lazy. The stiff surround cones are higher resonance professional monitor items and compromise low frequency response. It probably won't matter too much on a 15" driver and at least they are durable. But I'd sooner have the correct foam surrounds personally.
Hi Mike, so that's £420 for 2xHard edge i.e. double roll like the Prestige range, recones you've gone for? Does that include shipping both ways?
You will have a HPD driver that was never made by Tannoy-your call of course but not something I would have chosen but will admit to being a bit OCD/anal in this regard..
walpurgis
04-10-2017, 10:52
With the hard surrounds fitted, you basically end up with a 3808 driver as in the SRM 15X studio monitor, but with Alnico magnets. The response quoted for the SRM 15X, which is larger than the Berkeley, is 52Hz to 20kHz. Plus or minus a bit. I don't doubt it'll have bass output to below that, but not as deep as the softer foam surrounds will allow.
montesquieu
04-10-2017, 10:57
Hi Mike, so that's £420 for 2xHard edge i.e. double roll like the Prestige range, recones you've gone for? Does that include shipping both ways?
You will have a HPD driver that was never made by Tannoy-your call of course but not something I would have chosen but will admit to being a bit OCD/anal in this regard..
Agree, I wouldn't go for a hybrid like this. Your cabs and crossovers are designed for HPD 385s. What comes back will sound different - could be better could be worse but for sure it wont be the same.
walpurgis
04-10-2017, 10:59
There are other options. I'm sure Wembley Loudspeakers could install new foam surrounds for you (just insist they fit them as original and not stuck to the front edge as some do). Probably cheaper than a Lockwood recone too. http://www.wembleyloudspeaker.com/ Have a chat with them.
walpurgis
04-10-2017, 11:07
If you do send the drivers anywhere. Make sure you have very robust packaging.
Personally, I'd either bolt the drivers face to face with a separating board or bolt a piece of plywood across the front of each. I've seen what happens to speakers that aren't protected properly. Make sure the back covers are well covered in thick, soft padding, they break.
Well cardboard boxed and supported, then inside a wooden shipping crate would probably be safest. These are heavy items.
i'd keep as is til they start to fail personally. too many ponderables
Hard edge/double roll as per Prestige;
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8198/8161597154_62b91a956a_c.jpg
3808 hard edge;
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4428/37492484631_283076a1a2_b.jpg
Thanks for the extra info regarding the surrounds, I think I've gotten mixed up with all the stuff I've read so I might be wrong about the hard surrounds, don't worry I'll make sure I get it done correctly [emoji6]
Had the same dilemma and following advice on here ended up going for a full recone at Lockwoods with the standard HPD foam rather than the hard edge surrounds, not saying that's best though, I don't know. The recone vs replacing just the surrounds gets you updated voicecoils 300w vs 85w, not that you'd want to be running them anywhere near that and also new suspension which is probably important. They took FOREVER to run in afterwards, 200 hrs minimum but really nearer 300 hrs to fully settle.
Mike, there's some good info on this thread from Paul at RFC who is missed here on AoS. Hope you're keeping OK Paul :)
http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?44593-Lockwoods-in-da-house!-advice-please/page6
Had the same dilemma and following advice on here ended up going for a full recone at Lockwoods with the standard HPD foam rather than the hard edge surrounds, not saying that's best though, I don't know. The recone vs replacing just the surrounds gets you updated voicecoils 300w vs 85w, not that you'd want to be running them anywhere near that and also new suspension which is probably important. They took FOREVER to run in afterwards, 200 hrs minimum but really nearer 300 hrs to fully settle.
That's 85w rms continuous, the New Canterbury GR only handles 150w rms continuous the 'uprated' HPD is 120W rms. Put 300w continuous through a HPD and you'll start to demagnetise the Alnico motor(assuming to don't fry the voicecoil..
montesquieu
04-10-2017, 20:18
Had the same dilemma and following advice on here ended up going for a full recone at Lockwoods with the standard HPD foam rather than the hard edge surrounds, not saying that's best though, I don't know. The recone vs replacing just the surrounds gets you updated voicecoils 300w vs 85w, not that you'd want to be running them anywhere near that and also new suspension which is probably important. They took FOREVER to run in afterwards, 200 hrs minimum but really nearer 300 hrs to fully settle.
Haven't had HPDs reconed but my previous Golds with the hard bindings took an age, hundreds of hours as you say.
More brilliant help, thanks all, I'm still reading all the info I can find. These are going to be my last pair of speakers and I am determined to get it right.
Been trying to contact Lockwood, I did get 2 email replies to a couple of questions but now that I'm trying to organise the reconing I can't get hold of them lol.
Might be on holiday, I'll keep trying, will also contact the others that can do it, I've ruled out Tannoy doing it. I'll try Geoff's suggestion of Wembley.
Wembley did my friend's HPDs.
Wembley did my friend's HPDs.Cool, I've emailed them [emoji4]
Cool, I've emailed them [emoji4]
Stick with Lockwood Audio-seriously.
I've just received an email from them to say they are away till Tuesday.
385 HPD kits are £385/pair(plus shipping) and they(Lockwood) only charge £40 to install them-that is a very low labour cost and beats anyone else doing it tbh!!!
Frank
Stick with Lockwood Audio-seriously.
I've just received an email from them to say they are away till Tuesday.
385 HPD kits are £385/pair(plus shipping) and they(Lockwood) only charge £40 to install them-that is a very low labour cost and beats anyone else doing it tbh!!!
FrankI did think they were on holiday, which was why I didn't phone the mobile number.
I have most of the packaging ready to box them up, it's just occurred to me that I have a box in the attic that I sent my B&W PV1 Subwoofer back to B&W for repair in, so that might be strong enough. Although the PV1 only weighs 21kg. I'll dig it out and check it out before buying anything else.
walpurgis
07-10-2017, 09:25
Stick with Lockwood Audio-seriously.
I've just received an email from them to say they are away till Tuesday.
385 HPD kits are £385/pair(plus shipping) and they(Lockwood) only charge £40 to install them-that is a very low labour cost and beats anyone else doing it tbh!!!
Frank
Why?
Lockwood supply non-standard cones, which are not necessarily ideal.
Wembley Loudspeakers are a long established company with huge experience, so no reason to doubt their abilities. Me personally, I'd sooner have new surrounds properly fitted to a nicely run-in pair of original cones.
Having said that though, I'd do the work myself, but appreciate that most would not take this on.
Why?
Lockwood supply non-standard cones, which are not necessarily ideal.
Wembley Loudspeakers are a long established company with huge experience, so no reason to doubt their abilities. Me personally, I'd sooner have new surrounds properly fitted to a nicely run-in pair of original cones.
Having said that though, I'd do the work myself, but appreciate that most would not take this on.I think cooky was referring to only charging £40 for the labour, which in this day and age is pretty good.
Why?
Lockwood supply non-standard cones, which are not necessarily ideal.
Wembley Loudspeakers are a long established company with huge experience, so no reason to doubt their abilities. Me personally, I'd sooner have new surrounds properly fitted to a nicely run-in pair of original cones.
Having said that though, I'd do the work myself, but appreciate that most would not take this on.
me too.. these things take for ever to break-in. with my listening it might take a lifetime:D
walpurgis
07-10-2017, 09:43
I think cooky was referring to only charging £40 for the labour, which in this day and age is pretty good.
Yes. It's not bad.
Mind you, swapping cones is a fairly quick job. Somebody geared up and used to doing it, shouldn't take more than an hour or so per pair, the HPD's are pretty easy to work on..
Fitting new surrounds on the other hand, takes quite a while. Much more work involved.
Lockwood also supply 'standard cones', the options they offer are just that, options. Mike just needs to be clear what he wants i.e. 385 HPD (tanoplas) cones.
They just quoted me for 385HPD recone kits plus labour.
I've seen Tannoy refoams done by Wembley that have used spliced nonstandard foam, foams on the front etc etc I've never seen one done properly.
As Mike is going for the full recone I'd go with the firm with a 'Tannoy service' reputation to protect. That isn't slagging off Wembley, it's making a choice..
As I've mentioned to Mike if the cones were in good condition I'd be inclined to refoam and save a few hundred quid.
Lockwood also supply 'standard cones', the options they offer are just that, options. Mike just needs to be clear what he wants i.e. 385 HPD (tanoplas) cones.
They just quoted me for 385HPD recone kits plus labour.
I've seen Tannoy refoams done by Wembley that have used spliced nonstandard foam, foams on the front etc etc I've never seen one done properly.
As Mike is going for the full recone I'd go with the firm with a 'Tannoy service' reputation to protect. That isn't slagging off Wembley, it's making a choice..
As I've mentioned to Mike if the cones were in good condition I'd be inclined to refoam and save a few hundred quid.I've asked to make sure it's the Tanoplas surround, but I'm also watching videos as to how to refoam myself.
One thing I don't understand is looking at the videos I can't see how the glued edge becomes attached to the underside of the cone? They seem to show the glue on the surround but away from the underside of the cone, that has me puzzled.
Pretty sure with help from my daughter's Fiancé it's doable, can't be that difficult right?
And at only £50 a set it's a huge saving in the short term, yes the Scotsman in me is kicking in lol
Pm sent.
Someone upthread did mention they may have been refoamed once already(easy to establish by taking them out and having a look at the rear of the cone) and as yours have the early basket(like mine) they could be getting on a bit and benefit from a full re-cone. With the cabs being in such great nick this looks to be the option I'd choose-they'd be mint.
Pm sent.
Someone upthread did mention they may have been refoamed once already(easy to establish by taking them out and having a look at the rear of the cone) and as yours have the early basket(like mine) they could be getting on a bit and benefit from a full re-cone. With the cabs being in such great nick this looks to be the option I'd choose-they'd be mint.
Yeah, having read as much as I can in the last couple of hours, the re-cone seems to be the best option, I'll arrange it as soon as I can, I'll get the crossovers looked at while the drivers are away as I won't be using them anyway and it would cut down on the wait to have them running again.
Piggy bank here we come ........... :lol:
Ammonite Audio
08-10-2017, 08:10
Here are my recently procured Berkeleys. The first picture shows them after I'd cleaned up the grubby cabinets, but before tackling the grilles. The second picture shows what a bit of upholstery cleaner and a warm wash in the shower does for the grille fabric. The drivers had new foam surrounds fitted by Lockwoods a few years ago, and look absolutely fine, with no sagging. I'm going to clean the crossover switches and replace the spring terminals on the back panel, and that will do for now.
https://i.imgur.com/enKbz2s.jpg?1
https://i.imgur.com/PDoWusU.jpg?1
https://i.imgur.com/iHatlXA.jpg?1
Those look very nice Hugo, I can see the difference with your surrounds compared to mine, just a pity I didn't know before I paid for mine, pretty sure I'd have gotten something off them [emoji41]
Well the drivers are out and on their way to Lockwood Audio as of 20 minutes ago.
Here's how they looked when I removed them this morning.
https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Odds-and-Sods/i-99qxb8C/0/1eb4bc6e/M/IMG_20171012_094509761-M.jpg
https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Odds-and-Sods/i-3WgJcMS/0/e5c83a38/L/IMG_20171012_094528033-L.jpg
https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Odds-and-Sods/i-zqmw3Fb/0/ef9d41f4/L/IMG_20171012_094515897-L.jpg
https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Odds-and-Sods/i-Lw9kkGM/0/6f752321/L/IMG_20171012_095140476-L.jpg
https://photos.smugmug.com/Other/Odds-and-Sods/i-gnjKcG7/1/c34dd1b2/M/IMG_20171012_095348656-M.jpg
Colin Wonfor
13-10-2017, 05:55
Amazing I recall seeing a pair in about 1974, Mike you are making me feel so old.
Amazing I recall seeing a pair in about 1974, Mike you are making me feel so old.Oops lol, you're not the only one, it was around 1975 that I got my first real stereo, Garrard SP 25 Turntable, Sansui AU2200 amp and Solavox TK20 speakers, I still have the speakers [emoji23]
All bought from Comet in Dundee
walpurgis
13-10-2017, 08:30
Oops lol, you're not the only one, it was around 1975 that I got my first real stereo, Garrard SP 25 Turntable, Sansui AU2200 amp and Solavox TK20 speakers, I still have the speakers [emoji23]
All bought from Comet in Dundee
Blimey! Solavox speakers. They were what one bought if extremely broke! :D
They weren't too bad really, some featured Wharfedale drive units.
Blimey! Solavox speakers. They were what one bought if extremely broke! :D
They weren't too bad really, some featured Wharfedale drive units.Only 14 at the time and the only pocket money I earned was from the Game Dealer for rabbits, pigeons and for helping my dad with 'beating' at the weekend on the shoots for rich American oilmen from Aberdeen.
Plus there weren't many HiFi shops in Fife that I could afford to shop in at that time, hence the buys from Comet [emoji6]
Only 14 at the time and the only pocket money I earned was from the Game Dealer for rabbits, pigeons and for helping my dad with 'beating' at the weekend on the shoots for rich American oilmen from Aberdeen.
Plus there weren't many HiFi shops in Fife that I could afford to shop in at that time, hence the buys from Comet [emoji6]
used to shop in Comet's big shop in Edinburgh... well, warehouse
Ammonite Audio
13-10-2017, 15:03
I’ve been listening to my Berkeleys (via some proper modern Naim amplification) before they go off to a friend’s trendy mid-century furniture shop. There is definitely something magical about them - they definitely lack the resolution and clarity of the LS50s but that is forgiven because of their effortless way with real ‘music’. These are definitely speakers to live with and to enjoy, not to critique; their omissions are entirely pleasant and liveable.
I’ve been listening to my Berkeleys (via some proper modern Naim amplification) before they go off to a friend’s trendy mid-century furniture shop. There is definitely something magical about them - they definitely lack the resolution and clarity of the LS50s but that is forgiven because of their effortless way with real ‘music’. These are definitely speakers to live with and to enjoy, not to critique; their omissions are entirely pleasant and liveable.I would agree with that, they just seem to be right for me, really meaty, full sound but also allow to hear the delicate parts too, certainly not as clinical as my PMC 21 standmounts which is expected, they just seem to produce music effortlessly, they ain't leaving here anytime soon. I love them, can't wait to get the drivers back and run in.
Meanwhile, I'm reduced to this [emoji23]
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171013/1bd5c80a883ab99765d2d3d155513145.jpg
Bigman80
13-10-2017, 15:59
Oh no. That's bad lol
Sent from my EVA-L09 using Tapatalk
Oh no. That's bad lol
Sent from my EVA-L09 using TapatalkIt's cool, music is music however you listen to it [emoji6]
Bigman80
13-10-2017, 16:13
It's cool, music is music however you listen to it [emoji6]As long as there are some choons on were a happy bunch
Sent from my EVA-L09 using Tapatalk
As long as there are some choons on were a happy bunch
Sent from my EVA-L09 using TapatalkDamn right [emoji4]
montesquieu
13-10-2017, 17:09
Damn right [emoji4]
Agreed I was listening to Schubert a few minutes ago on my kitchen/Radio 3/Today Programme/The Archers setup, an old Denon one box CD, RDS, FM job - singalong time.
Agreed I was listening to Schubert a few minutes ago on my kitchen/Radio 3/Today Programme/The Archers setup, an old Denon one box CD, RDS, FM job - singalong time.
And yet you get people judging very expensive and technically accomplished kit on how well it 'Conveys the emotion'. How do we square that circle?
Magna Audio
14-10-2017, 06:48
Hehe, this thread took me back to my Tannoy adventures.
Had a pair of 8" Dorsets with passive radiators briefly,
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171014/027fe12b5a7606d83ee8fde9ca1a6be2.jpg
then Berkleys with the later HPD driver.
Built GRF cabs in thicker birch plywood for them.. similar size to Ardens.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171014/c110d06b84ef0124e81cd5cbfc4010c1.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171014/4e5cccbc825976fe9a70e4c1430b6008.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171014/141f7f1946f82b8757bd70a858abb4b0.jpg
Then front loaded horns took over and things got a bit out of hand.. :)
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171014/5a3cfe66b3a8bdc6f6cd197d669c6601.jpg
Think I'll pass on the Arden style cabs and go straight to the horns [emoji23]
Would they fit in my car, cos that's where I'd be living [emoji15]
Magna Audio
14-10-2017, 09:10
Think I'll pass on the Arden style cabs and go straight to the horns [emoji23]
Would they fit in my car, cos that's where I'd be living [emoji15]Yes, if your car is big enough..
Think massive Winnebago.
Not Arden style, GRF's named after their creator Guy R Fountain :) back loaded horn.
walpurgis
14-10-2017, 09:17
These are the kiddies you want. The Tannoy GRF (Guy R Fountain) Autograph Professional. You don't realise how big these are until you see them in the flesh. They are whopping! :)
http://i64.tinypic.com/2dgrkwk.jpg
Yes. I have heard a pair.
Magna Audio
14-10-2017, 09:19
These are the kiddies you want. The Tannoy GRF (Guy R Fountain) Autograph Professional. You don't realise how big these are until you see them in the flesh. They are whopping! :)
http://i64.tinypic.com/2dgrkwk.jpg
Yes. I have heard a pair.Massive! See how quickly things can get out of hand :)
walpurgis
14-10-2017, 09:29
They don't sound anything like you'd expect. One would imagine them having huge slam and presence like some of the big Altecs, but although they obviously sound like Tannoys, they are actually surprisingly relaxed and even handed, much in the same way the big Klipschorns are. Although naturally, both can do massive scale if wanted.
Yes, if your car is big enough..
Think massive Winnebago.
Not Arden style, GRF's named after their creator Guy R Fountain :) back loaded horn.Sorry I meant Arden size [emoji58] I'm pushing it with the Berkeley cabs, and must admit I think they're perfect in our living room without being intimidating sizewise.
These are the kiddies you want. The Tannoy GRF (Guy R Fountain) Autograph Professional. You don't realise how big these are until you see them in the flesh. They are whopping! :)
http://i64.tinypic.com/2dgrkwk.jpg
Yes. I have heard a pair.So not only do you want me kicked out you want me to lose me nuts too [emoji23]
So not only do you want me kicked out you want me to lose me nuts too [emoji23]
They slot into the corners and look like part of the room. At least in the photographs I've seen. Never encountered any for real.
Forgettaboutit anyway, easier to find a pair of identical, good-looking, nymphomaniac twins.
Forgettaboutit anyway, easier to find a pair of identical, good-looking, nymphomaniac twins.
S'funny you say that, I must go, the wifes twin sister has just arrived*
[emoji23][emoji23][emoji23][emoji23]
.
.
.
.
* I made this up, she has 5 older brothers [emoji17]
S'funny you say that, I must go, the wifes twin sister has just arrived*
[emoji23][emoji23][emoji23][emoji23]
.
.
.
* I made this up, she has 5 older brothers [emoji17]
Funny how life never works out exactly how you want it to.
walpurgis
14-10-2017, 10:01
Forgettaboutit anyway, easier to find a pair of identical, good-looking, nymphomaniac twins.
Probably about the same I'd say.
You'd never afford them anyway. Their exclusivity means that prices are huge! Most are in other countries too.
walpurgis
14-10-2017, 10:03
Funny how life never works out exactly how you want it to.
Tell that to Harvey Weinstein! :eek:
Colin Wonfor
14-10-2017, 15:15
Alan and I used these Tannoy's Buckingham's to test Magnum and Dreadnought Amplifiers.
https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/22426547_10214468496290436_6993465304381316464_o.j pg?oh=7e788180b67ac5ffd73857b1164db7b0&oe=5A6EE63E
dantheman91
14-10-2017, 15:22
Alan and I used these Tannoy's Buckingham's to test Magnum and Dreadnought Amplifiers.
https://scontent-lhr3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t31.0-8/22426547_10214468496290436_6993465304381316464_o.j pg?oh=7e788180b67ac5ffd73857b1164db7b0&oe=5A6EE63E
Was standing n front of a pair last week they guy bought them for £500....:eek: got to go back for a listen...
walpurgis
14-10-2017, 15:54
I heard the Tannoy Buckinghams many years ago. They were supplied with an acoustic lens for the dual concentric top driver as I recall. Can't say they left a big impression.
montesquieu
14-10-2017, 15:59
I heard the Tannoy Buckingham many years ago. They were supplied with an acoustic lens for the dual concentric top driver as I recall. Can't say they left a big impression.
Not surprised, given the genius of the Tannoy dual concentric driver is really its abilities as a phase-correct point source ... three dual concentric drivers arranged vertically would surely mess that up comprehensively?
Speaking of Tannoy's are the following pair a good bet at the price quoted? 15 inch Reds. No pictures of drivers though. Cabs look clean.
https://london.craigslist.co.uk/ele/d/tannoy-15-red-speakers/6342395144.html
Looks like a dealer of some kind as there are quite a lot of adverts with 'London, Oxford' mentioned.
Not 3 dc's just one DC atop 2 bass drivers. the lens was to increase horizontal dispersion.
walpurgis
14-10-2017, 16:25
Speaking of Tannoy's are the following pair a good bet at the price quoted? 15 inch Reds. No pictures of drivers though. Cabs look clean.
https://london.craigslist.co.uk/ele/d/tannoy-15-red-speakers/6342395144.html
Looks like a dealer of some kind as there are quite a lot of adverts with 'London, Oxford' mentioned.
I wouldn't touch those without seeing photos of the drive units and crossovers.
montesquieu
14-10-2017, 16:34
Not 3 dc's just one DC atop 2 bass drivers. the lens was to increase horizontal dispersion.
Thanks makes sense.
Oh no, room changes are being planned, they might be going in our home cinema room that's 2.5m x 4.5m, it's our old garage that we knocked through into from the living room to give us that space to convert into the TV/cinema room, TV is being moved into the main living room and I'm getting the the TV/cinema room as a music room, ok because it's open in to the living room I won't be able to play music when TV is being watched, but that's how it is just now anyway so no loss there
I'll be trying it out once my drivers are back from recone before final decision is made.
How long for the re-cone, Mikey?
How long for the re-cone, Mikey?Not sure they arrived at Lockwood on Friday morning so not sure when they'll be looked at.
Thought they might have give you an idea of timescale. Ah well.
Firebottle
16-10-2017, 17:46
..... because it's open in to the living room I won't be able to play music when TV is being watched,
Get some bifold doors installed Mike, we have them between the lounge and 'music room' that enables both to be in use at the same time :thumbsup:
Move the telly into the kitchen and use the whole space for the hi-fi. Leave underwear and such like lying around to mark it as 'your territory'.
Like Martin Ive got the whole house lol
Thought they might have give you an idea of timescale. Ah well.I probably should have asked but I thought I'd pestered them with enough questions [emoji6]
I probably should have asked but I thought I'd pestered them with enough questions [emoji6]
Makes sense. Will be worth the wait. Have you got tuner you can use to run them in with while you are out at work/asleep?
walpurgis
16-10-2017, 19:07
Makes sense. Will be worth the wait. Have you got tuner you can use to run them in with while you are out at work/asleep?
Yeah. Put them face to face and connect them out of phase, so the bass cancels out. That way you won't upset neighbours.
Makes sense. Will be worth the wait. Have you got tuner you can use to run them in with while you are out at work/asleep?I'll run my streamer [emoji6]
What volume are we looking at?
What volume are we looking at?
Louder and bassier the better I reckon....Radio 1 is your friend (if you're out of the house that is).
I'll run my streamer [emoji6]
Sorry man. I forget that it isn't 1987 anymore.
Louder and bassier the better I reckon....Radio 1 is your friend (if you're out of the house that is).Ah well if that's the case I better do the out of phase trick with then facing each other cos I can pump up the volume around here most days but knowing my luck lol
It will just take longer at low volume, that's all. It's not a massive deal anyway, I'll bet they sound great from the off.
Get some bifold doors installed Mike, we have them between the lounge and 'music room' that enables both to be in use at the same time [emoji106]Lol are they soundproof, I don't listen at 1 I'm more liable to be at 11 [emoji4]
It will just take longer at low volume, that's all. It's not a massive deal anyway, I'll bet they sound great from the off.Cool, can't wait to get them back
Louder and bassier the better I reckon....Radio 1 is your friend (if you're out of the house that is).For radio 1 I'd need to be out of the house [emoji23]
Just to help manage your expectations Mike they will sound pretty rubbish when you get them back, bass light, bit harsh nearly and undynamic. Mine have been in for a year and a half now after reconing and are sounding fantastic. I rewired them on Saturday and rotated the drivers 180 degrees to help even out wear on the suspensions when I was there. Took a photo of them to let you see the finished job from Lockwoods. I'd been in such a hurry to refit them I didn't take photos at the time :)
http://i1229.photobucket.com/albums/ee462/castle48/Lockwoods/976B1695-A33F-4132-8D96-015970187232.jpg (http://s1229.photobucket.com/user/castle48/media/Lockwoods/976B1695-A33F-4132-8D96-015970187232.jpg.html)
walpurgis
16-10-2017, 20:22
They look as good as mine. Which I did myself. And didn't need to run in, as they are the original cones.
http://i64.tinypic.com/n5575f.jpg
walpurgis
16-10-2017, 20:47
Nice job Geoff!
I've another pair to do. Just a cone swap this time. Been meaning to do it for about a year! :)
In case you feel the need to spend a bit more money, I found the imaging of the Berkeleys really improved once I removed the plinths and put them on 8" stands.
https://i.imgur.com/zlw8zq9.jpg
montesquieu
16-10-2017, 21:50
In case you feel the need to spend a bit more money, I found the imaging of the Berkeleys really improved once I removed the plinths and put them on 8" stands.
https://i.imgur.com/zlw8zq9.jpg
Not surprised at the imaging improvement .. tweeters at ear height is the secret.
walpurgis
16-10-2017, 21:51
For my Cheviots, I made 9" MDF stands that the plinths slide down into. Saves tinkering with the speakers and work just fine.
pgarrish
17-10-2017, 16:39
I had my 12” hpd s done a few years ago. New cones and the rubber surrounds.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171017/df2b7235c13aa9efd75c51c0eff4474f.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171017/4ed267f02d8015147cd052a8e1a44f35.jpg
They sounded ok on return but definitely improved over time.
Get them off the ground though, even a couple of breeze blocks will help - best improvement you’ll make
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171017/b0a27da7d450b8cfd58081967fc033c8.jpg
My stands are black painted MDF.
walpurgis
17-10-2017, 16:47
I had my 12” hpd s done a few years ago
What HPD's Paul? Those aren't HPD's and they don't have rubber surrounds.
pgarrish
17-10-2017, 17:23
315s? 12” hpds in Cheviot cabs. they have the hard (is it not rubber?) surrounds in place of the perished foam
walpurgis
17-10-2017, 17:37
They are not HPDs.
These are the Cheviots with HPD 315 drivers. You'll notice that the driver frames are round, they also have Alnico magnets. Yours are what is known as 'quartic' frames, meaning that you have the MK.II Cheviot. Housing the ceramic magnet 3128 drive units.
http://i66.tinypic.com/2a62txy.jpg
The good news, is that to me at least, these sound better than the HPDs. I own a pair and they are amongst the best Tannoys I've ever heard and I've heard near enough all the vintage classics.
The replacement cones in yours appear to have integral surrounds formed from the edge of the cone paper being corrugated and then coated.
pgarrish
17-10-2017, 18:38
Cheers Geoff. They had foam surrounds when I got them but when we went to put the drivers back in the cabs after replacing the wadding and the x-overs, all the foam fell out :(
Here’s the only close up I have https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171017/1a8d2fcb526f51c269fbe346bd218486.jpg
They sound bloody good either way [emoji41]
walpurgis
17-10-2017, 18:53
That's how mine looked until I replaced the surrounds.
While I wait for the drivers to return I have my PMC 21's sitting on top of the Berkeley cabs and they are sounding great, ok they're a bit high for ideal tweeter height but I'm still impressed with these little standmounts.
better high than low imo Mike. They say the best speaker is very narrow and very very high :D
walpurgis
19-10-2017, 11:39
they're a bit high for ideal tweeter height
Use them upside down. Won't hurt.
better high than low imo Mike. They say the best speaker is very narrow and very very high :DInteresting, they're sounding bloody good right now [emoji4]
Use them upside down. Won't hurt.But won't the music sound upside down too [emoji12]
walpurgis
19-10-2017, 11:42
But won't the music sound upside down too [emoji12]
You can compensate by standing on your head. It's a common technique.
When they filmed that Lionel Ritichie 'Dancing On The Ceiling' video they had to turn the playback monitors upside down because otherwise Lionel couldn't hear what he was supposed to be dancing to properly.
Probably.
Tannoy Transmission Line Supertweeters [emoji23]https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171019/49730b846fad675ca7c020ffe9bf165d.jpg
Snap
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171019/e1ea095bdb69a68448e0fc381c44dbeb.jpg
Except mine are both connected
I mentioned a couple of days ago that moves might be afoot in regards to the hifi system in the house, well we moved a few things around today, and the area that was our home cinema room is now my music room.
It’s not ideal size wise and after buying the Berkeleys I’m now thinking they aren’t going to like being in a room that’s 2.5m wide by 6m long ( it’s our old built in garage that we knocked through into from the main living area ) so once you get past the 6m it’s just opens up into the living room.
I’ll be sitting approx 4m from the speakers, to be honest I’ll be disappointed if they sound crap as I lusted after decent large driver for years, I’ll just have to wait on the drivers returning from Lockwood Audio to find out :nerves:
Here’s how they fit into the space.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171022/0e3c8ba793972181197b720213b32e8d.jpg
walpurgis
22-10-2017, 22:12
You could be OK Mike. Tannoys are funny things. You'd think corner placements wouldn't work too well, but they often do. My nearly as large Cheviots are in corners in a small room and work just fine.
You could be OK Mike. Tannoys are funny things. You'd think corner placements wouldn't work too well, but they often do. My nearly as large Cheviots are in corners in a small room and work just fine.
Ok thanks, time will tell I suppose, nice to have a dedicated space for music and we’ll just keep the 7ft wide screen to project onto when we want a movie on, finding space for the av amp and media player is going to be an issue though [emoji848]
montesquieu
22-10-2017, 23:13
While I wait for the drivers to return I have my PMC 21's sitting on top of the Berkeley cabs and they are sounding great, ok they're a bit high for ideal tweeter height but I'm still impressed with these little standmounts.
I had Tannoy Autographs built in the run up to a new house purchase. They were going to go in the corners of the living room which involved closing up the existing living room door off the hallway ( so entry was from the kitchen only).
Day we moved in that option was taken off the table - but the Autographs were already half built. They arrived and sure enough didn't fit the other way round (blocking off a chunk of window no laughing matter at well over 5ft tall and almost 4ft wide at widest point. Sadly they had to go.
I think you'll be fine, though I'd try to get the listening position a bit closer that's a very deep triangle.
I had Tannoy Autographs built in the run up to a new house purchase. They were going to go in the corners of the living room which involved closing up the existing living room door off the hallway ( so entry was from the kitchen only).
Day we moved in that option was taken off the table - but the Autographs were already half built. They arrived and sure enough didn't fit the other way round (blocking off a chunk of window no laughing matter at well over 5ft tall and almost 4ft wide at widest point. Sadly they had to go.
I think you'll be fine, though I'd try to get the listening position a bit closer that's a very deep triangle.Will do, I've just plonked the speakers down just now, I'll be moving rest of the gear today or tomorrow and will need to use my PMC's in the meantime. But even that will be an interesting experiment.
montesquieu
23-10-2017, 07:48
Definitely worth experimenting ... Tannoys can work extremely well near field (unsurprising I guess from their studio heritage) so worth giving that a go as well.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Will do, I've just plonked the speakers down just now, I'll be moving rest of the gear today or tomorrow and will need to use my PMC's in the meantime. But even that will be an interesting experiment.
Couldnt you sleep Mikey ??;)
Good luck with the Tannoys:eek:
Couldnt you sleep Mikey ??;)
Good luck with the Tannoys:eek:Woke up at 3:43am wide awake so browsed internet until 5:40 then went back to sleep [emoji4]
Going to move the rest of the kit just shortly, hope I hear about my drivers soon.
Kit now moved. Took out the Xiang Sheng DAC/Pre in favour on my TQ Claymore Amp as a Pre Amp, gives me remote control and better audio than the Xiang.
Have to say it sounds dreadful [emoji17]https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171023/52048d2cc4f695003ab01a1aa74d7974.jpg
brian2957
23-10-2017, 10:29
That looks very tidy Mike . It also looks like it will probably work ( hope it does mate ) . Love the rack too BTW :)
That looks very tidy Mike . It also looks like it will probably work ( hope it does mate ) . Love the rack too BTW :)Thanks Brian, I've already upgraded to version 2 which is sounding much better [emoji41] [emoji4]
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171023/45a2dab018d6fca7620cd7b059606661.jpg
brian2957
23-10-2017, 11:05
:D I bet those little PMCs sound excellent in that room Mike
:D I bet those little PMCs sound excellent in that room MikeThey didn't in version 1, but much, much better in version 2 back into the corners instead of being in front of the empty Berkeley cabs [emoji6]
I wouldn't worry about the Tannoys in that room. I heard a pair in cabs twice that size in a similar room (might have been a bit smaller) at Scalford and they sounded excellent.
I wouldn't worry about the Tannoys in that room. I heard a pair in cabs twice that size in a similar room (might have been a bit smaller) at Scalford and they sounded excellent.Good stuff, that helps ease the worry somewhat. It's a pain waiting on the drivers coming back, hopefully won't be too long.
The price extracted by The Boss for the Tannoys is already being spent, 2 painters working on quotes, new suite has been ordered for delivery in 6 weeks or so. I mean come on, all I spent was £175 [emoji6] [emoji23][emoji23][emoji23]
You might want to get some of that pyramid foam stuff from Studio Spares to line the walls either side and absorb some reflections. I need to get some myself, it probably won't make any difference but it is cheap and it makes it look like you are taking things seriously.
You might want to get some of that pyramid foam stuff from Studio Spares to line the walls either side and absorb some reflections. I need to get some myself, it probably won't make any difference but it is cheap and it makes it look like you are taking things seriously.Do you want me to become single [emoji23]
Hey it's supposed to be your music room isn't it?
brian2957
23-10-2017, 14:12
Good stuff, that helps ease the worry somewhat. It's a pain waiting on the drivers coming back, hopefully won't be too long.
The price extracted by The Boss for the Tannoys is already being spent, 2 painters working on quotes, new suite has been ordered for delivery in 6 weeks or so. I mean come on, all I spent was £175 [emoji6] [emoji23][emoji23][emoji23]
Gaun yersel Mike , you're making me feel better already :lol:
Without taking this too far off topic, it looks like my Decca isn't too poorly, it's outputting 7mv instead of 5mv, it has a fairly new Extended Contact stylus already fitted. So it's being fully tested, cleaned and hopefully returned soon.
Good stuff, that helps ease the worry somewhat. It's a pain waiting on the drivers coming back, hopefully won't be too long.
The price extracted by The Boss for the Tannoys is already being spent, 2 painters working on quotes, new suite has been ordered for delivery in 6 weeks or so. I mean come on, all I spent was £175 [emoji6] [emoji23][emoji23][emoji23]
Only £175 for Tannoy Berkeleys! :lol: :eyebrows:
I'll double that and pay the lockwood costs. Heck I'll even treat myself to a nice vacation in Scotland to pick them up.
And I'm sure I will be able to convince the boss I have a steal. :cool:
Nice dream.
good news mate!Looks like it ...... At last lol
Only £175 for Tannoy Berkeleys! [emoji38] :eyebrows:
I'll double that and pay the lockwood costs. Heck I'll even treat myself to a nice vacation in Scotland to pick them up.
And I'm sure I will be able to convince the boss I have a steal. :cool:
Nice dream.Jeez that's tempting, can I think about it [emoji23]
Jeez that's tempting, can I think about it [emoji23]
:cool:
Not too long as your boss may actually get to like the Tannoys. And your boss may insist you get 3 times what you actually paid. :scratch:
When are Lockwoods due to return your drivers? We are all waiting with baited breath you know. :)
:cool:
Not too long as your boss may actually get to like the Tannoys. And your boss may insist you get 3 times what you actually paid. :scratch:
When are Lockwoods due to return your drivers? We are all waiting with baited breath you know. :)Lol if I got 3x what I said I paid for it all, I'd still make a loss [emoji23]
To be honest I'm not sure on they're return, I could email but don't want to pester them. I'm in no rush, as long as they are done right I'll be happy [emoji6]
montesquieu
24-10-2017, 18:55
Lol if I got 3x what I said I paid for it all, I'd still make a loss [emoji23]
To be honest I'm not sure on they're return, I could email but don't want to pester them. I'm in no rush, as long as they are done right I'll be happy [emoji6]
I know I always think it's amazing what you can buy for £200 :whistle:
I know I always think it's amazing what you can buy for £200 :whistle:
Oh I vary things a bit. Never stick to the same amount. :)
One thing I do is tot up the amounts I have sold things for and use that as a kitty for future purchases. By my 'sort of reckoning' the kitty owes me tons. Well that is my story and I'm sticking to it.
Speaking of Tannoys I will, at some time, be taking my STA25 over to drive the Tannoys you recently got rid of Tom. That should be fun. Thanks for selling them btw as I now have a nice pair of Kudos. :yay:
I know I always think it's amazing what you can buy for £200 :whistle:
Anybody care to guess what I paid for my Lockwoods with 15" HPDs :D
walpurgis
24-10-2017, 20:44
Anybody care to guess what I paid for my Lockwoods with 15" HPDs :D
You were paid to take them away? :lol:
You were paid to take them away? :lol:
You're in the lead so far Geoff, your answer was closer than £200 :D
I mentioned a couple of days ago that moves might be afoot in regards to the hifi system in the house, well we moved a few things around today, and the area that was our home cinema room is now my music room.
It’s not ideal size wise and after buying the Berkeleys I’m now thinking they aren’t going to like being in a room that’s 2.5m wide by 6m long ( it’s our old built in garage that we knocked through into from the main living area ) so once you get past the 6m it’s just opens up into the living room.
I’ll be sitting approx 4m from the speakers, to be honest I’ll be disappointed if they sound crap as I lusted after decent large driver for years, I’ll just have to wait on the drivers returning from Lockwood Audio to find out :nerves:
Here’s how they fit into the space.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171022/0e3c8ba793972181197b720213b32e8d.jpg
You could try bunging the ports if they're boomy Mike.
Packed straws will attenuate the port O/P, and also lower the f3 point.
Ok, thanks for the port options. I’ll maybe try that if needed.
Firebottle
25-10-2017, 07:35
Without taking this too far off topic, it looks like my Decca isn't too poorly, it's outputting 7mv instead of 5mv, it has a fairly new Extended Contact stylus already fitted. So it's being fully tested, cleaned and hopefully returned soon.
That's good news Mike. If you still feel that the volume level (gain) is too low when using the Decca have you followed up my suggestion of getting the power amp gain increased a little.
With 7mV from the Decca the Vivant will be outputting 700mV for reference.
:)
That's good news Mike. If you still feel that the volume level (gain) is too low when using the Decca have you followed up my suggestion of getting the power amp gain increased a little.
With 7mV from the Decca the Vivant will be outputting 700mV for reference.
:)Will look into that when the Decca returns, however I'm wary of making changes that a: I can't do and b: if I change cartridge then it would need changed back again.
Will check with Colin how easy it is to change the amp, if simple then I'll get it done, if it means sending away then it's a no go, and I'll just get a different cartridge [emoji6]
montesquieu
25-10-2017, 08:10
Bit confused here 7mV is a shedload of output from a cartridge, almost as high as it gets unless you go for a DJ type. If your level at the speaker is low then you have a gain mismatch somewhere that a cartridge change won’t fix, and can really only make worse. What’s the chain of components here?
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Bit confused here 7mV is a shedload of output from a cartridge, almost as high as it gets unless you go for a DJ type. If your level at the speaker is low then you have a gain mismatch somewhere that a cartridge change won’t fix, and can really only make worse. What’s the chain of components here?
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkI know that's what I can't get my head around, any MC cart I use on the Vivant Phono stage is fine, I can use 2-3 times less volume control to get the same volume on the MC side in comparison to the MM side.
Technics 1210 (Modded)
Fidelity Research FR64FX arm
Decca Gold Cartridge
Firebottle Vivant Phono Stage (40db and 70db Gain)
TQ Claymore Amp (as Pre Only), I did previously use Ali's Slagle (same volume issues)
EWA M-50 Power Amp
I gave up Ali's Slagle mainly due to the low output reason, I'd have preferred remote control as well but it went essential, IF this issue turns out to be somewhere else in the chain I'll be a bit miffed as I thought other than the volume issues the Slagle was superb.
Going back to my comment about how i did it all arse for elbow as far as now having the Tannoys, I'm in favour of ditching everything bar the Tannoys and the 1210 and build from there.
But with nothing selling at the moment that might be a struggle, I mean I can't even get half price for my PMC's and less than a 1/4 retail for my TQ Amp [emoji17]
montesquieu
25-10-2017, 08:35
Something up with MM input. Is the loading correct? I’d try the MC input if you can keep the loading at 47k, and see what you get into the Slagle.
Firebottle
25-10-2017, 08:39
Mike, you're not leaving the MC loading plugs in place when using MM?
Something up with MM input. Is the loading correct? I’d try the MC input if you can keep the loading at 47k, and see what you get into the Slagle.I no longer have the Slagle, it has a new owner [emoji6]
My Decca is still with John Wright for what now sounds like an unnecessary checkup [emoji17]
I have loading plugs to set it 30 to match the Decca, but in or out they make no difference volume wise.
Mike, you're not leaving the MC loading plugs in place when using MM?No, I've tried it with the 30 plugs in and with no plugs in and no difference.
The black 100 plugs are MC so they don't get used with the Decca.
I can put my TQ at full volume using the Decca and I can still talk across the room and be heard.
I don't have the Decca back yet to try it again.
Firebottle
25-10-2017, 08:52
Are you wiring the Decca correctly? Just trying to get to the bottom of this.
No, I've tried it with the 30 plugs in and with no plugs in and no difference.
The black 100 plugs are MC so they don't get used with the Decca.
I can put my TQ at full volume using the Decca and I can still talk across the room and be heard.
I don't have the Decca back yet to try it again.
you got the cart wired right mike?
Will I did think about this before posting off the cartridge to John Wright, so I checked it and it looked fine into the 4 pin connector that it came with, it's colour coded so can't go wrong, I then read somewhere about using the 3 pin connector ( luckily I have that too ), that too is colour coded, so I swapped that in, still no difference, which was why I sent the cartridge to John.
I have a Rega Carbon MM cart that I bought to put on my Focus One TT upstairs, I've just put that on my 1210 TT and it sounds a little louder than the Decca from memory, but not greatly so, I can still go to max volume and ok it's a little distorted but it certainly isn't deafening by a long way. In fact a quick check with decibel meter app on phone gives me 76db at full volume.
I don't have an MC cart to test but I do know that before I sold the last of them last week I couldn't push the amp that far without killing something [emoji6]
I'll swap it over into the TQ phono input and report back.
Lol this just gets better and better, I now have the TT ( with mm cart ) into the MM phono input on the TQ Claymore Amp ( as pre ) and no difference, still low output.
THEN for a laugh I tried it into the MC input, now this should overload it somewhat right?
Well actually no it didn't, same volume just a little muddier sounding, what the FEK!
ok next move is to remove the EWA M-50 Power Amp from the equation and go integrated only, I think this might be the one thing I've NOT tried.
Getting rid of the Slagle is looking more and more likely to have been a big mistake, well here goes, back soon [emoji23]
I take it streaming is working with system so if 2 carts are same it looks like the phono stage or the connection in to amp; or the arm is faulty. try putting the other tq in as a test by itself. should tell you where problem is
I take it streaming is working with system so if 2 carts are same it looks like the phono stage or the connection in to amp; or the arm is faulty. try putting the other tq in as a test by itself. should tell you where problem isStreaming fine.
What I don't get, is that the MC carts all sounded fine going TT - Vivant - TQ (Pre) - Power Amp.
The MM carts are the same no matter if I use the Vivant or the TQ built in stage, so it's not the stages, right?
It's not the TQ (Pre) as volume into Power Amp when using streaming as that's fine too?
So that should rule out the Power Amp mismatch too.
So can it be the arm? Why would it be ok for MC and not MM that's the bit I don't get if it is the arm at fault. Mind you the way things are going lately with my second buys it wouldn't bloody surprise me!
I'm away to try takingg the power amp out if the equation just to make sure it's not that.
Have you tried your spare tq.. the old one just as a trial. Not currently having a mc is stopping testing that again, but its at moment suggesting a fault in arm wiring or associated wiring re tt
Have you tried your spare tq.. the old one just as a trial. Not currently having a mc is stopping testing that again, but its at moment suggesting a fault in arm wiring or associated wiring re ttI'll try that later if I have time, I've given up at the moment, heeds mince [emoji23]
Just had word that the HPD's should be despatched next Tuesday [emoji4]
Powered by vBulletin® Version 4.2.3 Copyright © 2025 vBulletin Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved.