View Full Version : Phonomac AT-1010 Tonearm review
Bigman80
11-10-2017, 11:54
As per usual I am going to break this down into segments. I find it easier that way.
Angus (Phonomac of this forum) got in touch not long after I posted my thoughts in regards to the Alphason and Mission tonearms I was playing with. I had already remarked on the aesthetic appeal of the AT-1010 when I saw one on Montesque's re-plinthed Garrard 401. The email was simply to ask if I would be interested in having a listen to his modified version of the same arm. I was of course going to say yes!
Lets start with looks,
I think its a very 80's idea of what the modern (2000's) arm would look like. I don't know when the AT-1010 came in to production but to me, that's how it feels. They were wrong of course BUT its a very nice looking arm all the same.
10/10 : I love the looks. Very different and very me ha!
Build quality,
Well to look at the arm, you would presume it would feel....Cheap. You know what I mean when something Metal is actually lightweight and flimsy feeling, but no, Its satisfyingly heavy. Its rock solid. The black bar which supports the rest and the arm-lift lever is a metal die-casting, only the clip and lock are plastic, it still has a very good quality feel to it. The arm lift is reassuringly firm and smooth in operation. The bias weight, anti-skate weight and counterweight are all feel very well made and a visual inspection shows that they are very well machined and look the part. The arm lock is very effective too. I am impressed by the quality so far, but wait! What's this I have spotted? Its a casting ridge. The bearing housing is a cast piece of metal which, when done usually produces a ridge or seam where the cast moulds meet. These are usually sanded off and left to look like they never existed. The Phonomac AT-1010 has a slight ridge. This isn't a concern in terms of performance or an indicator that its not up to scratch but it does show that Audio Technica's QC should have been more diligent. Shame that, It was going so well!!
9/10, The ridge on the bearing housing has let the finish down a bit but its still incredibly well engineered. I've seen another two of these arms and neither have a blemish. Just mine, Typical! hahaha.
Set-Up,
It looks a bit of a doddle. Angus has this set up to perfection in a little over 10 minutes. Yes, 10 minutes. No special tools, just a laminated alignment protractor print out from Conrad Hoffman’s arc protractor software, a mirrored azimuth checker and a few allen keys and we are ready to go. I am sure a manual and 30 minutes would have me reach the same standard of set-up so no fear there. So, beginner friendly? Definitely. I set this up personally in less than 25 minutes and to the same level as done by the expert. Its a really easy arm to set up. I love the detachable headshell.
10/10 Its easy enough for a beginner but has many areas for adjustment that the Audiophile can spend hours adjusting it. Excellent.
Sound,
Well where do I start?
It feels like we have turned the focus ring on the Camera lens and everything is cuttingly sharp and accurate. This means there's excellent levels of separation between instruments. Crescendos are clear and completely smear free. Its very precise and coherent. I am taken aback at how poised and completely under control the arm is. There's no smudging of the soundstageand even in the busiest parts of the track, it is all completely audible and easy to follow. Bass is tight and full of impact. The drum rolls and kick drum really stir up a lot of atmosphere and the sound and motion of the skin flexing on the drum roll travels from left to right in a totally realistic manner. The attack of the drums is accompanied by what I can only describe as the possibly the cleanest soundstage I have personally heard. It sounds like i have now got a focused sound. Pinpoint and deliberate. Transient repsonse is clean and delivered with attack and shimmer.
It's powerful too. I noticed an immediate increase in the output when I dropped the needle for the first time. Angus suggests this is due to the Cantilever delivering more signal due to the rigidity of the arm and the ultimate stability of the bearings which means less effort is required from the cartridge to stabilise the arm. It has a very firm grip of intonation and the flat wound strings on McCartney's bass really thud rather than boom. I am also happy to report that the very bottom end is as articulate as the midrange and treble. Balance throughout the frequency band is superb and nothing flies out in front. Very even delivery.
I recently heard anOrtofon RS-309D 12" tonearm and felt that it was pinpoint accurate, neutral and incredibly detailed. The Phonomac AT-1010 is equally as good according to memory. I would like to do an A/B but as I don't have £2000+ lying around, that's not gonna happen!
This arm is doing a great job at opening up the sound stage, The sound is coming from around the speakers rather than from the front and this is giving a real sense of space. It's very easy to be lost in the track and be totally absorbed into the ambient noises in the background of the track. These noises aren't usually this apparent or vivid but here they are, sucking me in. I feel like I am on a journey through time and space, listening to “Dark side of the Moon” Cliche I know, but still a great album. Guitar notes travel from way beyond to up front and centre as Jimi Hendrix takes me on a drug fuelled trip around his mind. It really is conjuring up mental images and flaring my imagination.
So tonally, we are in dreamland. A perfectly balanced presentation and what feels like utter transparency ensues when we strap an Ortofon Vienna to the Phonomac AT-1010. Acoustic guitars are spot on and attack is very punctual. Decay is swift and doesn't linger which makes way for the next note. I actually feel like I have more time to listen to the track such is the timing. Odd sensation. It's kind of like the turntable is no longer rushing through the track. Rather taking its time to get everything right. Rhythmically, its a foot tapping fest. Its no slouch just "sniper" accuracy and precise. Always under control. The Ortofon Vienna shows me exactly what the arm is capable of in the hands of a top class cart. Stunningly good.
Imagine a room full of people under pressure whilst chaos and panic ensues. There is always one person, cool, calm and collected, a Bond like figure. This is Bond.
It reveals everything and hides nothing. Detail retrieval is obviously a strength and I am hearing, very clearly, two track vocals which have been over-laid and then the harmonies are there for your listening pleasure too, also very well separated. Its a fantastic listen. Everything is individually audible but part of a bigger, well drawn, picture. 12 string guitars are portrayed accurately and believably.
Vocals on Fleetwood Mac have me questioning how Stevie Nicks ever got the job as lead singer. It not that the arm isn't portraying her voice well, its actually showing me all the flaws and poor breathing technique she used. She's out of air so can't stop the note from wavering and its all a little shaky. The truth is the arm is really displaying more detail than I am used to and it very revealing. Onto a better vocalist (Sarah Jarosz) and we have glorious tone and timbre. A brief listen to Mozart – The Toronto Chamber Orchestra and the Orchestra is full, flowing and delicate. There's drama and emotion with wonderful balance and tonal superiority. Violins are audible at the right balance with the Basses and wind instruments. It really is very good.
10/10 Simply stunning performance. Very hard to fault anywhere, unless you are Stevie Nicks!
In my opinion, in my setup, the AT-1010 a superior arm to anything ive owned or heard. Quite surprising really but thats the only conclusion i can come to after listening to it relentlessly. If you doubt it, i suggest you let Angus show you what you're missing. I'd expect this to be difficult to beat for any tonearm under £2500 (based on the Ortofon i previously mentioned). Yes, any.
Conclusion.
Angus tells me the price of this modified arm is £825 including supply of the original arm. I am a little surprised that an AT-1010 would cost so much (a recent standard AT-1010 sold for £400ish on eBay recently).
We have a chat about how the price is evaluated. The level of work which goes into the bearing upgrade is quite shocking. We have one piece of plastic, part of the bearing assembly, which is a moulded piece. Angus takes this out and remakes it with better materials. A process which has over 20 different machining operations to make it, demonstrates the level of attention to detail he goes to. It also creates a larger area on which to attach to. This increases the rigidity of the arm. More is done to the arm but at the risk of exposing his methods, I decided not to share them. Suffice to say, when you take into account the materials used, new parts sourced, all the machining it goes through and labour, £825 is looking a bit cheap! Angus might be a one man band, working out of his garage/workshop, but his quality control is top notch. The adapter plate made to fit the AT to my Toshy is as professional as anything available anywhere.
In an ideal world, I would like to hear how the standard AT-1010 and the Phonomac AT-1010 compare. This could happen and if it does I will update this thread.
I am confident to say that this is a real world priced, Top class tonearm. Upon hearing it, even the most dedicated brand buying consumer couldn't argue. I was suitably impressed with the Ortofon RS-309D, I am in love with the Phonomac AT-1010
P.S, the car horn on “Country Honk” - Rolling Stones, just made me look out the front room window. Outstanding lol."
This review was written PRIOR to me purchasing a Phonomac AT1010 and i have received no financial/gift incentive to review this arm. All views expressed are my own and are only my opinion. Always try something yourself before purchase
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171011/78f6b68c7aa511349160aa78c989eaef.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171011/81b4c2d393c6c392045c153cb5addbf4.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171011/b38a90b09fe2bd2c6c35d22f98b6a03d.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171011/f877093e6c21a14f82d2b52ce1e2aac4.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171011/0245c8a853e94945a887783ca46f7909.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171011/c631a8098164ef8526d5ff3a82ca55c6.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171011/a149f909ac0aca45d542986be5ddbf04.jpg
Pictured on the Toshiba on which the review was done.
RobbieGong
11-10-2017, 12:12
As per usual I am going to break this down into segments. I find it easier that way.*
Angus (Phonomac of this forum) got in touch not long after I posted my thoughts in regards to the*Alphason*and Mission*tonearms*I was playing with. I had already remarked on the aesthetic appeal of the AT-1010 when I saw one on*Montesque's*re-plinthed*Garrard*401. The email was simply to ask if I would be interested in having a listen to his modified version of the same arm. I was of course going to say yes!*
Lets start with looks,*
I think its a very 80's idea of what the modern (2000's) arm would look like. I don't know when the AT-1010 came in to production but to me, that's how it feels. They were wrong of course BUT its a very nice looking arm all the same. *
10/10 : I love the looks. Very different and very me ha!
*
Build quality,*
Well to look at the arm, you would presume it would feel....Cheap. You know what I mean when something Metal is actually lightweight and flimsy feeling, but no, Its satisfyingly heavy. Its rock solid. The black bar which supports the rest and the arm-lift lever is a metal die-casting, only the clip and lock are plastic, it still has a very good quality feel to it. The arm lift is reassuringly firm and smooth in operation. The bias weight, anti-skate weight and counterweight are all feel very well made and a visual inspection shows that they are very well machined and look the part. The arm lock is very effective too. I am impressed by the quality so far, but wait! What's this I have spotted? Its a casting ridge. The bearing housing is a cast piece of metal which, when done usually produces a ridge or seam where the cast moulds meet. These are usually sanded off and left to look like they never existed. The*Phonomac*AT-1010 has a slight ridge. This isn't a concern in terms of performance or an indicator that its not up to scratch but it does show that Audio*Technica's*QC*should have been more diligent. Shame that, It was going so well!!*
9/10, The ridge on the bearing housing has let the finish down a bit but its still incredibly well engineered. I've seen another two of these arms and neither have a blemish. Just mine, Typical!*hahaha.*
Set-Up,*
It looks a bit of a*doddle. Angus has this set up to perfection in a little over 10 minutes. Yes, 10 minutes. No special tools, just a laminated alignment protractor print out from*Conrad Hoffman’s arc protractor software, a mirrored azimuth checker and a few*allen*keys and we are ready to go. I am sure a manual and 30 minutes would have me reach the same standard of set-up so no fear there. So, beginner friendly? Definitely. I set this up personally in less than 25 minutes and to the same level as done by the expert. Its a really easy arm to set up. I love the detachable*headshell. *
10/10 Its easy enough for a beginner but has many areas for adjustment that the Audiophile can spend hours adjusting it. Excellent.*
Sound,*
Well where do I start?*
It feels like we have turned the focus ring on the Camera lens and everything is cuttingly sharp and accurate. This means there's excellent levels of separation between instruments. Crescendos are clear and completely smear free. Its very precise and coherent. I am taken aback at how poised and completely under control the arm is. There's no smudging of the*soundstage*and even in the busiest parts of the track, it is all completely audible and easy to follow. Bass is tight and full of impact. The drum rolls and kick drum really stir up a lot of atmosphere and the sound and motion of the skin flexing on the drum roll travels from left to right in a totally realistic manner. The attack of the drums is accompanied by what I can only describe as the possibly the cleanest*soundstage*I have personally heard. It sounds like i have now got a focused sound. Pinpoint and deliberate. Transient repsonse is clean and delivered with attack and shimmer.
It's powerful too. I noticed an immediate increase in the output when I dropped the needle for the first time. Angus suggests this is due to the Cantilever delivering more signal due to the rigidity of the arm and the ultimate stability of the bearings which means less effort is required from the cartridge to stabilise the arm. It has a very firm grip of intonation and the flat wound strings on McCartney's bass really thud rather than boom. I am also happy to report that the very bottom end is as articulate as the midrange and treble. Balance throughout the frequency band is superb and nothing flies out in front. Very even delivery. *
*
I recently heard an*Ortofon*RS-309D 12"*tonearm*and felt that it was pinpoint accurate, neutral and incredibly detailed. The*Phonomac*AT-1010 is equally as good according to memory. I would like to do an A/B but as I don't have £2000+ lying around, that's not*gonna*happen!*
This arm is doing a great job at opening up the sound stage, The sound is coming from around the speakers rather than from the front and this is giving a real sense of space. It's very easy to be lost in the track and be totally absorbed into the ambient noises in the background of the track. These noises aren't usually this apparent or vivid but here they are, sucking me in. I feel like I am on a journey through time and space, listening to “Dark side of the Moon” Cliche I know, but still a great album. Guitar notes travel from way beyond to up front and centre as*Jimi*Hendrix takes me on a drug fuelled trip around his mind. It really is conjuring up mental images and flaring my imagination.*
So tonally, we are in dreamland. A perfectly balanced presentation and what feels like utter transparency ensues when we strap an*Ortofon*Vienna to the*Phonomac*AT-1010. Acoustic guitars are spot on and attack is very punctual. Decay is swift and doesn't linger which makes way for the next note. I actually feel like I have more time to listen to the track such is the timing. Odd sensation. It's kind of like the turntable is no longer rushing through the track. Rather taking its time to get everything right. Rhythmically, its a foot tapping*fest. Its no slouch just "sniper" accuracy and precise. Always under control. The*Ortofon*Vienna shows me exactly what the arm is capable of in the hands of a top class cart. Stunningly good.*
Imagine a room full of people under pressure whilst chaos and panic ensues. There is always one person, cool, calm and collected, a Bond like figure. This is Bond.*
It reveals everything and hides nothing. Detail retrieval is obviously a strength and I am hearing, very clearly, two track vocals which have been over-laid and then the harmonies are there for your listening pleasure too, also very well separated. Its a fantastic listen. Everything is individually audible but part of a bigger, well drawn, picture. 12 string guitars are portrayed accurately and believably.*
Vocals on Fleetwood Mac have me questioning how*Stevie*Nicks ever got the job as lead singer. It not that the arm isn't portraying her voice well, its actually showing me all the flaws and poor breathing technique she used. She's out of air so can't stop the note from wavering and its all a little shaky. The truth is the arm is really displaying more detail than I am used to and it very revealing. Onto a better vocalist (Sarah*Jarosz) and we have glorious tone and timbre. A brief listen to Mozart – The Toronto Chamber Orchestra and the Orchestra is full, flowing and delicate. There's drama and emotion with wonderful balance and tonal superiority. Violins are audible at the right balance with the Basses and wind instruments. It really is very good.*
10/10 Simply stunning performance. Very hard to fault anywhere, unless you are*Stevie*Nicks!*
In my opinion, in my setup, the AT-1010 a superior arm to anything ive owned or heard. Quite surprising really but thats the only conclusion i can come to after listening to it relentlessly. If you doubt it, i suggest you let Angus show you what you're missing. I'd expect this to be difficult to beat for any tonearm under £2500 (based on the Ortofon i previously mentioned). Yes, any.*
Conclusion.*
Angus tells me the price of this modified arm is £825 including supply of the original arm. I am a little surprised that an AT-1010 would cost so much (a recent standard AT-1010 sold for £400ish on eBay recently).*
We have a chat about how the price is evaluated. The level of work which goes into the bearing upgrade is quite shocking. We have one piece of plastic, part of the bearing assembly, which is a moulded piece. Angus takes this out and remakes it with better materials. A process which has over 20 different machining operations to make it, demonstrates the level of attention to detail he goes to. It also creates a larger area on which to attach to. This increases the rigidity of the arm. More is done to the arm but at the risk of exposing his methods, I decided not to share them. Suffice to say, when you take into account the materials used, new parts sourced, all the machining it goes through and labour, £825*is looking a bit cheap! Angus might be a one man band, working out of his garage/workshop, but his quality control is top notch. The adapter plate made to fit the AT to my Toshy is as professional as anything available anywhere.*
In an ideal world, I would like to hear how the standard AT-1010 and the Phonomac AT-1010 compare. This could happen and if it does I will update this thread.*
I am confident to say that this is a real world priced, Top class tonearm. Upon hearing it, even the most dedicated brand buying consumer couldn't argue. I was suitably impressed with the*Ortofon RS-309D, I am in love with the Phonomac AT-1010*
P.S, the car horn on “Country Honk” - Rolling Stones, just made me look out the front room window. Outstanding lol."*
This review was written PRIOR to me purchasing a Phonomac AT1010 and i have received no financial/gift incentive to review this arm. All views expressed are my own and are only my opinion. Always try something yourself before purchase
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171011/78f6b68c7aa511349160aa78c989eaef.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171011/81b4c2d393c6c392045c153cb5addbf4.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171011/b38a90b09fe2bd2c6c35d22f98b6a03d.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171011/f877093e6c21a14f82d2b52ce1e2aac4.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171011/0245c8a853e94945a887783ca46f7909.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171011/c631a8098164ef8526d5ff3a82ca55c6.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171011/a149f909ac0aca45d542986be5ddbf04.jpg
Pictured on the Toshiba on which the review was done.
Nice one Oliver !!
I can relate to what you've written, particularly the bit highlighted.
Can only add that when you hear the warts and all / the 'truth' of a recording ie: your comments about Stevie's vocals for example, you know you've really entered the realms of high fidelity.
This for me is what it's all about and worth all the pain along the journey :)
jandl100
11-10-2017, 12:49
I used to have a standard AT-1010.
Very nice, I loved it.
Do you know in what ways yours has been modded by Angus? It looks pretty much the same, iirc.
RobbieGong
11-10-2017, 13:25
I used to have a standard AT-1010.
Very nice, I loved it.
Do you know in what ways yours has been modded by Angus? It looks pretty much the same, iirc.
Angus,
Re-wired my Micro Seiki MA-202 and fitted new hybrid ceramic bearings. Wouldnt be surprised if he's fettled / improved Olivers AT-1010 similarly.
Bigman80
11-10-2017, 14:46
I know that the bearing housing is replaced with a better material and there are high quality super smooth bearings. A larger surface area is created for the bearing to be sited. It's all very Technical. Lots of work goes in to it.
Sent from my EVA-L09 using Tapatalk
topoxforddoc
11-11-2017, 09:04
The Audio Technica AT-1010 and AT 1100 were beautifully made and were expensive in the early 80s when they came out - easily twice the cost of the press darling Grace 707. I bought an AT1100 new back then and kept it until 3 years ago. It was great arm and a perfect match for my ultra low output Micro Seiki LC80w MC cartridge (I wish I had kept that).
Bigman80
11-11-2017, 09:17
The Audio Technica AT-1010 and AT 1100 were beautifully made and were expensive in the early 80s when they came out - easily twice the cost of the press darling Grace 707. I bought an AT1100 new back then and kept it until 3 years ago. It was great arm and a perfect match for my ultra low output Micro Seiki LC80w MC cartridge (I wish I had kept that).I'm really impressed with mine. It's a permanent fixture here. It'll never be sold. With Angus's mods it's a special beast. I haven't heard a stock version but it's on the horizon to do so. Excellent arm.
Sent from my EVA-L09 using Tapatalk
"I can relate to what you've written, particularly the bit highlighted.
Can only add that when you hear the warts and all / the 'truth' of a recording ie: your comments about Stevie's vocals for example, you know you've really entered the realms of high fidelity."
This revelation of reality is where we know we have moved forward, and I have been having this with my ADAMs.
There's no going back psychologically when you know you've heard more than ever before.
Bigman80
11-11-2017, 09:38
"I can relate to what you've written, particularly the bit highlighted.
Can only add that when you hear the warts and all / the 'truth' of a recording ie: your comments about Stevie's vocals for example, you know you've really entered the realms of high fidelity."
This revelation of reality is where we know we have moved forward, and I have been having this with my ADAMs.
There's no going back psychologically when you know you've heard more than ever before.It was an eye-opening moment when the Phonomac AT1010 went on. It really blew my expectations. I couldn't afford one when I heard it but I just knew I couldn't send it back. It was a struggle but I'm rewarded daily!
Sent from my EVA-L09 using Tapatalk
RobbieGong
11-11-2017, 10:30
I was over by Angus's on Tuesday for the first time and heard his AT-1010 within the context of his system.
Playback was simply excellent ! - Not sure what the cart was but the rest as you know being on his SP-10, through the Sansui AU D11ii, out of a pair of Monitor Audio GS-20's :)
Bigman80
11-11-2017, 10:49
I was over by Angus's on Tuesday for the first time and heard his AT-1010 within the context of his system.
Playback was simply excellent ! - Not sure what the cart was but the rest as you know being on his SP-10, through the Sansui AU D11ii, out of a pair of Monitor Audio GS-20's :)Yea it's a really detailed system. He's done a really good job of putting it all together. That mystery cartridge is coming to mine for a little listen on the 28/11. I'm looking forward to it!
Sent from my EVA-L09 using Tapatalk
Bigman80
10-12-2017, 08:17
UPDATE :-
"In an ideal world, I would like to hear how the standard AT-1010 and the Phonomac AT-1010 compare"
Seeing as this has now happened, it's only fair to add the result into this post for completeness.
Angus and I recently met up at my house for a listen to his new AT-ART7 and he brought the AT1010 as standard, for me to try.
Once strapped to the TT and Ortofon Vienna fitted (used to compare both arms on the day) we listened to the test track I'd picked, Shine on you crazy diamond - Pink Floyd.
I found the crescendo of the chorus too busy and mushy with the Alphason and that is what led me to get the Phonomac AT1010. How does the AT version fare? Well, better than the Alphason, but it's way off the pace of the Phonomac version.
The output is lower, the detail is slightly smeared and the worst bit, it's lackluster. It just can't match the vibrant pace and ultimate control of the Phonomac AT. It's not really a close run thing either. The Vienna was on trial with a view to purchase and if I had only heard it in the AT standard arm, I wouldn't have been interested. As it was, I had the Phonomac version and I really was interested. There was no life, verve or passion from the AT. It had less dynamic energy and generally felt a bit.......... [emoji848]
I cannot recommend the upgrades Angus does to this arm, highly enough. They make such a difference to the arm and take it to stratospheric levels of performance. It's the best arm I've personally heard. Simple.
I would sincerely love to put my Phonomac AT1010 up against some serious competition to see how good it REALLY is because anything I've heard so far hasn't competed.
Note:
The variable damping available on this arm works incredibly well with Decca cartridges.
I've used the following cartridges on this arm :
AT33PTGII
AT-ART7
Decca Gold
Decca Blue
Goldring Eroica
ZYX Bloom
Ortofon Vienna
There was no issue in setting up any of these cartridges and getting an excellent result. The Deccas prefer a heaver headshell which was obtained by the Generosity of Walpurgis
The Goldring Eroica was kindly donated by Macca to whom I owe a crate of Guinness.
Thanks everyone. [emoji16]
Sent from my EVA-L09 using Tapatalk
montesquieu
12-12-2017, 23:00
Just to say yesterday I received an AT 1503 that Angus has breathed on including bearing replacement with what I believe may be the same hybrid ceramic ones as he puts in the 1010 and a general fettle, along with construction of an integral arm lift and a visually matching heavy counterweight for use with SPUs.
Superb sonic improvement - I'm delighted with it. Pics to follow. In use on my Garrard 401 which just took a considerable leap forward.
Incidentally I also left him my own AT 1010 and a couple of other tonearms to have a look at.
Bigman80
13-12-2017, 07:42
Just to say yesterday I received an AT 1503 that Angus has breathed on including bearing replacement with what I believe may be the same hybrid ceramic ones as he puts in the 1010 and a general fettle, along with construction of an integral arm lift and a visually matching heavy counterweight for use with SPUs.
Superb sonic improvement - I'm delighted with it. Pics to follow. In use on my Garrard 401 which just took a considerable leap forward.
Incidentally I also left him my own AT 1010 and a couple of other tonearms to have a look at.A wise move Tom. The man is a magician as far as I am concerned. [emoji106]
Let us know how your AT1010 turns out for you. The comparison we did of the modded v unmodded was very much favourable to Angus's work.
Sent from my EVA-L09 using Tapatalk
montesquieu
13-12-2017, 18:52
Pics of the Angus-tuned AT1503 ... the big differences are inside with the replacement bearings/rewire/tube damping but it looks pretty cool too ... (apologies for the thread hijack)
The AT1503 is the broadcast version of this arm developed for/with NTT, there is also the ATP12T consumer version which I also owned at one point - this is a serious improvement over that arm. Indeed it's probably a very authentic partner for an early SP10 :)
https://i.imgur.com/NagWH8j.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/qPYSkLT.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/3kf1euN.jpg
walpurgis
13-12-2017, 19:11
Very nice Tom. Top quality engineering and finish on AT arms.
Bigman80
13-12-2017, 19:30
No apologies necessary, Tom. The more info on Angus's work, the better. He's a top fella with enviable skills.
A fine looking instrument indeed. I would imagine it sounds very good !
Sent from my EVA-L09 using Tapatalk
RobbieGong
14-12-2017, 16:02
Lovely looking arm that Tom and as Olivers says, it will have been a good arm as standard and will now be excellent after Angus has worked his magic.
I'm very very happy with my Angus improved Micro Seiki MA 202.
Your AT1503 really suits the Garrard - all looking (and sounding I bet) good :thumbsup:
itskeith
26-12-2017, 21:38
Hi Big Man,
Good write up on the 'Phonomac AT1010'.
Thought I'd add my own comments, as I guess a few here may also ve interested.
I also own 'Phonomac At1010' tonearm.
The usual 'disclaimer bit':
No i have not been paid to write this review.
Yes I know Angus and have been lucky enough to have heard a few of his AT1010's whilst he's been improving and continually evaluating them.
I have been able to compare Angus's Phonomac AT1010 against my own standard arm for a continued evaluation session, over a few weeks. Both on a Lenco PTP5 and an SP10 Mk2, and using a variation of cartridges: AT33PTG, Transfiguration Spirit 3 (FG retip), Ortofon Kontrapunkt and Ortofon Vienna (it's a tough life :-)
I found that the differences between the arms were consistent, no matter which of the above turntables were being used.
Findings as follows:
A huge difference in performance between the two arms, so much so that they can’t really be called the same arm!
The 'phonomac arm' sounds very spookily slower. I believe that this is because a LOT more information is now coming though, which is effecting the perception of the speed at which it is being played. Very strange! It also played noticeable louder using the new arm, yet without changing any settings, incl the amp settings, volume control, phono stage or cartridge. Maybe more of the signal from the arm is now being transmitted?
Other changed (improvements) include:
- bass on the ‘phonomac’ arm is deeper, tighter, voices are more subtle and seem to have more air and soul (subjective I know but no other way of explaining it), way more subtleties are evident, providing more detail, yet it also seems more musical because the flow to the music can be felt when and where it is moving. It also has a far more impressive soundstage.
I think there was as big an improvement between the two arms, as when I moved from a Dl-103 to the Transfiguration, and yes that is saying something!
Having heard the above, I asked Angus to take and modify my standard arm to the same specification, which he has done.
I have since heard an AT-ART7 on this arm, which was superb and also, have now purchased a Lyra Clavis Mk1 with 100hrs on an Esco Paratrace retip (unfortunate accident with the Transfiguration). This combination I think is staggeringly impressive, and my hunt for turntable tweaks and improvements is over. Hurrah!
Thank you to Angus for all his research and hard work in developing such an arm, and his excellent (as always) level of craftsmanship, and mentoring.
I will happily live with this combination for a very (hopefully) long time indeed.
Bigman80
26-12-2017, 22:03
Hi Keith.
It seems your findings strongly confirm my own which is always pleasing!
The work Angus does to this arm really takes it to a level I won't be able to better. This arm cost me around £825ish and I won't be letting it go.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences.
Sent from my EVA-L09 using Tapatalk
Great write up, who has the at art-7
Bigman80
27-12-2017, 00:14
Angus. It's very very very good.
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yes i heard good things about that cartridge,id love to hear one,do you think he'd give me a lend?
yes i heard good things about that cartridge,id love to hear one,do you think he'd give me a lend?
I have an Art-1 and it is my forever cartridge; at least until it dies or I do!
Bigman80
13-01-2018, 17:27
I have an Art-1 and it is my forever cartridge; at least until it dies or I do!
Never heard one.....I'll have a look
Berni217
13-01-2018, 22:45
Nice read. How can one get a Phonomac AT-1010?
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Bigman80
14-01-2018, 00:08
Nice read. How can one get a Phonomac AT-1010?
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkYou can message the man directly via the Forum PM system [emoji3]
He a lovely guy, a pleasure to deal with.
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Bigman80
14-01-2018, 00:09
yes i heard good things about that cartridge,id love to hear one,do you think he'd give me a lend?Probably not of his AT-ART7. Its well and truly strapped to his TT [emoji4]
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Berni217
14-01-2018, 08:08
You can message the man directly via the Forum PM system [emoji3]
He a lovely guy, a pleasure to deal with.
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Done. Thanks.
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Bigman80
14-01-2018, 08:40
[emoji4]
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Never heard one.....I'll have a lookAT 25th anniversary model. Titanium block, boron cantilever, twin transformers, fineline stylus. The best I have heard . £800 at the time.
Synergist
15-01-2018, 19:11
Hi chaps,
I'd been in the market for a mid mass, well designed tonearm to fill a gap in my audio armoury for a while. I'd considered the usual suspects, SME, Audiomods, Audiocraft, and a fair few others (without the option to listen unfortunately) and finally bit the bullet and bagged a NOS, boxed AT-1010. It arrived over the weekend.
It's not up and running just yet, but on first impression handling it I'm impressed. Let's hope it tickles my ears soon :)
Pics to follow
2248922490224912249222493
Bigman80
15-01-2018, 19:31
Hi chaps,
I'd been in the market for a mid mass, well designed tonearm to fill a gap in my audio armoury for a while. I'd considered the usual suspects, SME, Audiomods, Audiocraft, and a fair few others (without the option to listen unfortunately) and finally bit the bullet and bagged a NOS, boxed AT-1010. It arrived over the weekend.
It's not up and running just yet, but on first impression handling it I'm impressed. Let's hope it tickles my ears soon :)
Pics to followWow, great find!!
It's a lovely arm too. If you want to unlock it's true potential, give Phonomac a shout and let him work his magic. If you want to compare the Standard arm to the modded arm, you are welcome to bring it down to sunny Wolverhampton [emoji6]
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Synergist
15-01-2018, 20:09
Wow, great find!!
It's a lovely arm too. If you want to unlock it's true potential, give Phonomac a shout and let him work his magic. If you want to compare the Standard arm to the modded arm, you are welcome to bring it down to sunny Wolverhampton [emoji6]
Sent from my EVA-L09 using Tapatalk
Thanks Oliver,
Reading your review of the Angus modded arm has me tempted although It's a new toy for now so I'll get to grips with it and listen to it stock for a wee while. I've a few hours checking it out now and I'm suitably impressed thus far. It looks like the AT boffins set out to design a no compromise, well engineered top line arm here. There's some well implemented features and a raft of neat little touches.
A few things I like so far :
Top notch build. Reassuringly solid. It screams quality.
Low slung counterweight with it's axis directly inline with stylus tip.
Floating CW stub with adjustable damping using the Fo dial.
This feels like it's gonna be a real pleasure to use :)
Bigman80
15-01-2018, 20:11
Thanks Oliver,
Reading your review of the Angus modded arm has me tempted although It's a new toy for now so I'll get to grips with it and listen to it stock for a wee while. I've a few hours checking it out now and I'm suitably impressed thus far. It looks like the AT boffins set out to design a no compromise, well engineered top line arm here. There's some well implemented features and a raft of neat little touches.
A few things I like so far :
Top notch build. Reassuringly solid. It screams quality.
Low slung counterweight with it's axis directly inline with stylus tip.
Floating CW stub with adjustable damping using the Fo dial.
This feels like it's gonna be a real pleasure to use :)You should definitely listen to it in its stock form so when you have it modded you can fully appreciate it's improvements.
You're welcome anytime to have a listen to mine.
O
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Synergist
15-01-2018, 22:35
That's a kind offer Oliver. If I get that far South I'll give you a nudge ;-)
https://preview.ibb.co/eBi37R/9.jpg (https://ibb.co/dd7VnR)
Lovely quality and well designed magnesium headshell. Silver leads and nicely damped with an unknown rubber(?) Should keep unwanted nasty vibes at bay.
https://preview.ibb.co/joiQMm/10.jpg (https://ibb.co/bLBZE6)
https://preview.ibb.co/dnYmSR/11.jpg (https://ibb.co/i4uFMm)
Setup was a breeze with this clever little device. Perfect to get the geometry spot on. It doubles as a cartridge setup tool to get the overhang pinpoint accurate. It's graduated in mm on the reverse.
https://preview.ibb.co/eoenZ6/12.jpg (https://ibb.co/fLEMu6)
Kudos to AT for some really nice touches here. Adjustable azimuth on the headshell collar. They've gone to great lengths to make setup straightforward yet highly adjustable for those of us obsessed with accuracy. Nice bias implementation for different stylus profiles and a highly adjustable lateral balance should it be needed. I like the little slope off on the arm rest rubber where the arm comes to rest. The arm lift is smooth and nicely damped. The headshell socket grips like a vice. Reminds me of the collet chuck on my lathe. Quality fit and feel all round. No compromises as far as I can see. Great attention to detail. The arm rest is plastic but feels tough and the arm snaps in nice and snug. The lock is a nice feature for extra safety.
So far it's a breeze to use. More tomorrow with some listening impressions to share.
As the 80's soul classic goes "Let the music play"
Bigman80
15-01-2018, 22:38
That's a kind offer Oliver. If I get that far South I'll give you a nudge ;-)
https://preview.ibb.co/eBi37R/9.jpg (https://ibb.co/dd7VnR)
Lovely quality and well designed magnesium headshell. Silver leads and nicely damped with an unknown rubber(?) Should keep unwanted nasty vibes at bay.
https://preview.ibb.co/joiQMm/10.jpg (https://ibb.co/bLBZE6)
https://preview.ibb.co/dnYmSR/11.jpg (https://ibb.co/i4uFMm)
Setup was a breeze with this clever little device. Perfect to get the geometry spot on. It doubles as a cartridge setup tool to get the overhang pinpoint accurate. It's graduated in mm on the reverse.
https://preview.ibb.co/eoenZ6/12.jpg (https://ibb.co/fLEMu6)
Kudos to AT for some really nice touches here. Adjustable azimuth on the headshell collar. They've gone to great lengths to make setup straightforward yet highly adjustable for those of us obsessed with accuracy. Nice bias implementation for different stylus profiles and a highly adjustable lateral balance should it be needed. I like the little slope off on the arm rest rubber where the arm comes to rest. The arm lift is smooth and nicely damped. The headshell socket grips like a vice. Reminds me of the collet chuck on my lathe. Quality fit and feel all round. No compromises as far as I can see. Great attention to detail. The arm rest is plastic but feels tough and the arm snaps in nice and snug. The lock is a nice feature for extra safety.
So far it's a breeze to use. More tomorrow with some listening impressions to share.
As the 80's soul classic goes "Let the music play"Spot on there, love that setup tool!!
It's a beautiful arm, I'm a big fan. Looks good with your Decca [emoji6]
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Synergist
15-01-2018, 22:56
Spot on there, love that setup tool!!
It's a beautiful arm, I'm a big fan. Looks good with your Decca [emoji6]
Sent from my EVA-L09 using Tapatalk
True. The tool is cool !! :-)
Saved a lot of time and fiddling and it was reassuring that the mounting distance was spot on when fixing the mounting collar. All fits into place perfectly when using the AT shells that have the pre-threaded holes. Just fix your cart, snap the shell into the tool, view from below, align to the 50mm mark and hey presto, perfect geometry. Lovely design. I messed around with too many fussy arms in my time. Like I said great work by AT. Looking forward to spinning a few tomorrow :)
Bigman80
16-01-2018, 19:58
A visit from Phonomac today with his new PMAT-1010 MKV !!
An upgrade again on the most recent version. More to follow.
Synergist
20-01-2018, 12:47
Looking forward to your assessment of the MkV upgrades.
I've had a few days listeining to my stock arm now so here are my early impressions. I bought it to use with my low compliance carts and before I stumbled on this thread so my purchase was unbiased and a bit of a punt based on it's design and features.
Opinions are subjective of course, and I've moved on a fair few arms over the years (Jelco, Rega, Lenco, Mission etc) so my opinions are purely based on what I know and have heard. My memory of their qualities, and or weaknesses may not be recent but I think this is a fair comparision.
So....I've had a Decca Super Gold, ala paratrace & Decca-Pod and a Denon 103 with boron & shibata upgrades to put the AT through it's paces. I'm well familiar with the strengths and weaknessses of these two carts.
Set-up & use :
A breeze to setup and a pleasure to use. Arguably the easiet to dial in and ergonically friendly arm I've owned. Even the feel of the screw on the tonearm collar is tactile and of real quality. The tiny details count.
Sound :
The first word that struck me was neutral. Nothing standing proud, recessed or out of place, just balanced and coherent. Everything brought together as a collective whole. Tonally it's seems right on the money not adding any unecessary flavour to the mix.
Pace & control – Hard to descirbe but it has an uncanny knack of making the music sound easy and relaxed without sounding mushy or fudged. It's posied and composed even through the busiest tracks but never to the point of being over analytical by over disecting the mix. It's like it takes it all in it's stride, unfussed, calm, assured. A rare feat in my experience.
It's up there with the best for detail making the most of what the cart can extract from the groove. Maybe not quiet as much as a good tangential arm can deliver but there's nothing that's missed to dampen the enjoyment. It's silver wiring will have an impact I guess, but I'm not an advocate of too much silver in the chain as it can become overly cold and hyper analytical. Good quality copper still has it's place. I think AT have it right here though as it compliments the other qualities of the design.
Which brings me onto the high's and mids. They sound right. Sweet with the right amount of sparkle, never sounding harsh or shrill. The AT has cleaned up the very minor siblant nature of my Decca here. It's not sounded this sweet for a long time. I'll put this down to what I wrote above about control and neutrality. One thing's for sure, this arm is one heck of a good partner for carts that need the most help tracking.
My test track for bass response, power and control is Lou Reed's "Walk on the wild side". It's the yarstick for me as it has a deep, driving, multi octave and sometimes subtle bassline that some arms (and carts) struggle with. Everything was delivered with aplomb, tight and poweful, with impact, tuneful. I'm quite sure the arms solid feel and excellent tracking ablity has a big part to play here. It will be interesting to learn of the mods that Angus makes to an already excellent design.
I could easily continue but my ears are getting itchy waiting for me to put on the next album. Time to spin some of that old black magic :thumbsup:
Sounds like a great tonearm for the Decca. What is the damping mechanism on this arm?
Synergist
20-01-2018, 13:41
Sounds like a great tonearm for the Decca. What is the damping mechanism on this arm?
There's no damping as such other than the magnesium/rubber composite headshell and the adjustable force on the floating counterweight stub (fo damping as AT describe it)
The fo adds pressure to the stub via a rubber pad. Fully tightened the stub is rigid. All the way lose it has some play and the stub has room to move. I guess it plays a small part in damping and I can't honestly say it's made a huge difference until I experiment. Many argue that a Decca needs damping at the headshell, bearing or pivot first and foremost. I've had and used both methods with all my Decca's. I've found that the London Decca's in pods or bodies are less fussy and work well in many arms. Tonearm mass, quality and design plays a bigger part in my experience. The Decca FFSS arms and carts have no conceivable damping and work very well together.
There's no damping as such other than the magnesium/rubber composite headshell and the adjustable force on the floating counterweight stub (fo damping as AT describe it)
The fo adds pressure to the stub via a rubber pad. Fully tightened the stub is rigid. All the way lose it has some play and the stub has room to move. I guess it plays a small part in damping and I can't honestly say it's made a huge difference until I experiment. Many argue that a Decca needs damping at the headshell, bearing or pivot first and foremost. I've had and used both methods with all my Decca's. I've found that the London Decca's in pods or bodies are less fussy and work well in many arms. Tonearm mass, quality and design plays a bigger part in my experience. The Decca FFSS arms and carts have no conceivable damping and work very well together.
I think the Decca does indeed work better in a pod and generally likes some decent mass in the tonearm. My unipivot is internally damped and worked ok with my Decca Blue but not ideal. Compliance was a bit of a mismatch and I did get a bit of mistracking although this was probably down to not enough VTF.
I have heard Oliver's Phonomac AT1010 on his SP10 , very impressive set up.
Synergist
20-01-2018, 16:10
I think the Decca does indeed work better in a pod and generally likes some decent mass in the tonearm. My unipivot is internally damped and worked ok with my Decca Blue but not ideal. Compliance was a bit of a mismatch and I did get a bit of mistracking although this was probably down to not enough VTF.
I have heard Oliver's Phonomac AT1010 on his SP10 , very impressive set up.
I forgot to add that my London Decca is also internally damped by John Wright when he rebuilt it. That removes most of the limitations of the original design and firms up the whole sound as a result, especially in a pod.
I've had the Blue, Maroon and an Export Grey and all have been used in uni-pivots (I have the Decca Magnetic Uni-pivot) and silicone & oil damped arms. Just my experience but podding and damping at the cart end of things is better than damping later down the signal path. Why put unwanted resonances into the headshell/tonearm ? With a little thought and JW's modding they are all unique and hard to beat for realism and dynamics.
So far in the stock AT arm it's a real treat to listen to, as is the Denon 103. Happy days.
Bigman80
20-01-2018, 16:47
I forgot to add that my London Decca is also internally damped by John Wright when he rebuilt it. That removes most of the limitations of the original design and firms up the whole sound as a result, especially in a pod.
I've had the Blue, Maroon and an Export Grey and all have been used in uni-pivots (I have the Decca Magnetic Uni-pivot) and silicone & oil damped arms. Just my experience but podding and damping at the cart end of things is better than damping later down the signal path. Why put unwanted resonances into the headshell/tonearm ? With a little thought and JW's modding they are all unique and hard to beat for realism and dynamics.
So far in the stock AT arm it's a real treat to listen to, as is the Denon 103. Happy days.😊
Bigman80
22-01-2018, 17:24
Well, the inevitable has happened. Phonomac has now taken deposits for the sale of his last remaining AT-1010's!!!!
If you want one, you're gonna have to find your own arm!!!!
Bigman80
21-05-2018, 19:36
PHONOMAC visits with his new MK5 PMAT1010.
Finally, I got the chance to have a listen to the finalised Mk5 version of the PMAT-1010. Previous versions included an upgrade to the bearing housing and upgraded bearings in the horizontal plane. It was Angus's plan to have the upgraded bearings in the Vertical plane too, but this was problematic due to machining tolerances. Having spent the best part of a year on developing a technique that allows the machining to work within 5 microns (? Will check that's right) tolerance, the Mk5 became a real possibility a few weeks ago. I heard the prototype and quite frankly, ordered the upgrade there and then.
Fast forward to today and I got the chance to put one through its paces.
We used Angus's new Orotofon Vienna+ which has recently arrived back from Killian Bakker (located in the Netherlands) who was tasked with repairing the Vienna. Unbeknownst to Angus, what was originally thought to be cantilever drift from lack of antiskate, was actually a broken tie wire inside the cartridge. Killian was approached due to his expertise with Ortofon Cartridges and duly accepted the challenge. A new set of guts was fitted along with a new Ruby cantilever and improved stylus. The FG-s. This created "the Ortofon Vienna+"
Angus had been quite coy in his experience of what came back from Killian, insisting that I "wait to see what you think" and today, I know what I think. The "OV" was placed onto the MK4 arm to get a benchmark for how it performed. Instantly, on the opening track of "Making Movies - Dire straits" the visceral impact was evident. It was livelier than the Kb, it also sounded fuller and more powerful. I was shocked at how ALIVE it sounded. I made a comparison to the Decca Gold I'd had in terms of percussion impact and the pure speed that the drums were coming out of the speakers. In all honesty, I then compared it to a Keith Moon type of approach to reproduction. It sounded a bit wild and energetic. Almost losing its composure in a few place. I then popped the Kb in to the MK4 and everything recessed a little. The soundstage was smaller and everything was a little less......explosive. We chatted about what we heard and then decided to give the Mk5 a go.
We set everything up and dropped the needle on the same track........this is when my world ended.
The OV no longer felt like it was out of control, in fact, very much the opposite. The PMAT-1010 Mk5 had a very tight grip on everything and produced a fluid performance that almost felt flippant. The same kind of attitude that just commanded respect and ultimate confidence that everything was easy for this tonearm. I could bang on about transients etc but what's the point! All I need to say is ....this is the best tonearm I have ever heard. Anywhere. Next up we played "All dead - Queen" I chose this track due to its ridiculously good recording of a piano and the quite stunning harmonies throughout. The Piano was divine, the harmonics of the notes floated but as the keys got lower, the authority and depth of the note just made my hairs stand on end. It really was something else.
The Mk5 can only be described as Majestic. For anyone to be considering a Medium mass tonearm and not be looking into one of these is just insane. Forget the name, forget the country of origin, forget any preconceived idea that you may have about Audio Technica, this arm is magic.
The Kb went on to the Mk5 next and whoa boy am I looking forward to getting my Mk5!!
This combination left me feeling like ive only been playing around at being serious about vinyl. Luckily, I have a Mk5 on order and I'll be getting an Ortofon Vienna asap.
A combination that blew my world apart.
***I have not been asked to write this review or been offered any incentive to do so. I have no affiliation with the manufacturer and my views here are expressed due to my own experience with the aforementioned equipment only***
phonomac
21-05-2018, 20:04
Only one minor factual correction to make - the tolerance is 5 microns.
Angus
Bigman80
21-05-2018, 20:22
Only one minor factual correction to make - the tolerance is 5 microns.
AngusEdited!!
Firebottle
22-05-2018, 06:56
Gor blimey!
Or other phrases of shock and awe.
Having heard some of your journey with this arm and various carts I can only surmise that what you are hearing is sublime.
Good on Angus for honing his skills :respect:
Bigman80
22-05-2018, 07:05
Gor blimey!
Or other phrases of shock and awe.
Having heard some of your journey with this arm and various carts I can only surmise that what you are hearing is sublime.
Good on Angus for honing his skills :respect:It's an arm worthy of any audition IMO. It was next level with the Vienna+. Almost didn't bother putting my arm and cart back on [emoji23]
phonomac
22-05-2018, 11:01
Thanks for the comments guys. Much appreciated.
regards
Angus
It's an arm worthy of any audition IMO. It was next level with the Vienna+. Almost didn't bother putting my arm and cart back on [emoji23]
i know that feeling!
id like to add that today i heard this arm and together with the rest of angus's system it just blew me away,ive never heard realism like this before .
all in all a very enjoyable day oh and expensive too :D
Bigman80
31-08-2018, 17:59
Yes, Jamie. The man knows what he's doing when it comes to Turntables and Tonearms. Saying that he knows Cartridges and amps too [emoji23][emoji23]
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he also makes rather nice coffee to!
Bigman80
31-08-2018, 19:33
he also makes rather nice coffee to![emoji23]
Sent from my VKY-L09 using Tapatalk
Bigman80
01-11-2018, 18:45
News has reach Chateau la Bigman, the PMAT-1010 MK6 will be here Monday!!!!!
I am very excited to hear mine after hearing Jamie's. Review to follow!!
:champagne::mex::wow::band::carrot::goodluck::rock ::clap::gig::yay::yesbruv::dance::concertina:
Bigman80
01-11-2018, 19:36
'Le Bigman' surely?Yes, possibly. I let my phones auto text decide as I don't speak french, which I presume that is [emoji23]
Bigman80
01-11-2018, 19:37
:champagne::mex::wow::band::carrot::goodluck::rock ::clap::gig::yay::yesbruv::dance::concertina:Indee d.
Berni217
02-11-2018, 16:26
[emoji1787] I am looking forward to reading your review Monsieur Le Bigman!
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Bigman80
02-11-2018, 16:30
[emoji1787] I am looking forward to reading your review Monsieur Le Bigman!
Sent from my iPhone using TapatalkHa! Thanks.
Berni217
02-11-2018, 22:18
What are the differences between the MK5 and MK6?
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Bigman80
02-11-2018, 22:25
What are the differences between the MK5 and MK6?
Sent from my iPad using TapatalkThe material used for the bearing carrier and pillar. I can't remember the name of it.
Machined to even tighter tolerances too. It may not seem like much but having a brief listen to the MK6 shows how worthwhile it is. I'll do a full write-up when it gets here and I've had a good listen to it.
[emoji1787] I am looking forward to reading your review Monsieur Le Bigman!
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
see here,post 56 onwards regarding the mk6 https://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?60227-Sony-TTS-8000-Turntable/page6
Berni217
03-11-2018, 07:44
see here,post 56 onwards regarding the mk6 https://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?60227-Sony-TTS-8000-Turntable/page6
Very nice reading. Thanks.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Thank you to Angus and Jamie, I am now in receipt of a Mk6 1010 and a panzerholz armboard. I set it up yesterday, not realising that the MS-9 headshell had azimuth capability or adjustable length. Today is a listening day.
no problem mate,a little tip i use when doing azimuth on the ms-9 headshell is first wrap a thin band of masking tape around the arm connector,this stops the fitting going in and ruining your alignment when turn the connector for azimuth.
https://i.imgur.com/WSgk5h1.jpg
Any other headshell recommendations welcomed - for my OC9ii cartridge.
any further thoughts geoff now you've used it a while?
any further thoughts geoff now you've used it a while?It's class. Will post more this week.
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Clive197
25-11-2020, 18:38
As far as I’m aware the AT-1010 was/is an OEM product actually made by Jelco and we are all aware of what has happened to them, BooHoo. If I’m wrong than anybody is at liberty to correct me. Or was it the Ortofon arm was made by Jelco?
Jelco made many arms on an OEM basis for other manufacturers including Ortofon. But that said there is nothing about the AT1010 that cannot be serviced by others, such as Phonomac or Audio Origami.
phonomac
26-11-2020, 10:21
Just to be clear, Jelco has nothing at all to do with the AT-1010. It was Audio Technica's top domestic arm in the early 1980s, designed and built for them by Audiocraft. The Mk6 designation refers to the modifications that I devised and built to improve the performance.
Clive197
26-11-2020, 16:41
Just to be clear, Jelco has nothing at all to do with the AT-1010. It was Audio Technica's top domestic arm in the early 1980s, designed and built for them by Audiocraft. The Mk6 designation refers to the modifications that I devised and built to improve the performance.
So I was correct, the AT-1010 was an OEM product, just wrong about that it was Jelco but Audiocraft instead. By the way I’ve never heard of Audiocraft, my bad LOL.
So I was correct, the AT-1010 was an OEM product, just wrong about that it was Jelco but Audiocraft instead. By the way I’ve never heard of Audiocraft, my bad LOL.Bravo.
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vinylspinner
26-11-2020, 17:36
The AT-1010 is a nice arm, a mate of mine has one that has never been used, still in the original box, might need to get him to part with it.
Just spoken to my mate and he would be happy to sell it if offered a decent price. I will get some photos and then start a sales thread.
I am not one for big reviews so I will keep it brief.
My PMAC arm replaced an SME IV on my TTS8000. I like it visually and sonically and Angus and others were extremely helpful, from order to installation and since. Angus also made a panzerholz armboard, to Jamie's measurements, that is beautifully finished and allows for perfect alignment.
The arm sounds great, from top to bottom, offering greater separation than the SME and more clearly defined tonal colours. It offers less bass than the SME but still is solid and detailed. I make the comparison with two cartridges, an Art-1 and an Oc9ii.
I do want to compare the Stevenson alignment (the standard for the arm) with Baerwald before I make definitive statements but I have owned a number of quality tonearms, including the SME iV, Nottingham Ace Anna and Origin Live Conqueror. In my opinion, the PMAC 1010 is at least in that league and possibly beyond. A longer period of consistent listening and settled alignment is the only way to avoid the hyperbolic whitterings of an exciteable new owner; give me a few months.
the last sentance is like a breath of fresh air! glad your enjoying it geoff.
Wire Nut
07-01-2021, 16:53
Hi, I am interested in one of these arms, being a newbie I may not be able to directly contact Phonomac as I tried to figure out how to PM him. Any advice is appreciated.
you have to make a certain number of posts before you can send a pm.
Wire Nut
07-01-2021, 20:54
OK, thanks!
You need to make 5 posts David - 2 more to go, then you can use the Personal Message (PM) facility.
I am not one for big reviews so I will keep it brief.
My PMAC arm replaced an SME IV on my TTS8000. I like it visually and sonically and Angus and others were extremely helpful, from order to installation and since. Angus also made a panzerholz armboard, to Jamie's measurements, that is beautifully finished and allows for perfect alignment.
The arm sounds great, from top to bottom, offering greater separation than the SME and more clearly defined tonal colours. It offers less bass than the SME but still is solid and detailed. I make the comparison with two cartridges, an Art-1 and an Oc9ii.
I do want to compare the Stevenson alignment (the standard for the arm) with Baerwald before I make definitive statements but I have owned a number of quality tonearms, including the SME iV, Nottingham Ace Anna and Origin Live Conqueror. In my opinion, the PMAC 1010 is at least in that league and possibly beyond. A longer period of consistent listening and settled alignment is the only way to avoid the hyperbolic whitterings of an exciteable new owner; give me a few months.
Having now tried Stevenson and Baerwald alignments, I have a preference for the latter. It gives me a little more top end detail without losing the bass definition. I am a little surprised given the arm was designed to use Stevenson but that's the way it is, for me.
ive often thought about trying other alignments,my thinking would be as long as you can line the cartridge up it doesn't matter what alignment the tonearm is designed to use. i suspect that to get Baerwald alignment you're not using a ms-9 headshell?
I can align Baerwald with the AT headshells, yes.
that does suprise me as i thought you wouldn't be able to get the increased off set angle which is what put me off trying. i'll give it a go.
Waiting for my PMAT- Mk6, AT 33PTG/II and my Phonomac upgraded Denon HA500. Once everything arrives the only thing I'll have to do is to drop the tonearm in the armboard, adjust the height and connect the cables. Angus will do all the fine tuning for me, what better than that? Good bye 3009. By the way, the At-1010 was designed and manufactured for Audio Technica by Audiocraft/Ultracraft, Jelco did not have anythng to do with it.
Cheers,
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