View Full Version : New Listening Room
After 13 years of having my HiFi stuffed in the middle room of the house, we have finally had a move around and I managed to get the end room with new furniture and stuff.
Think it looks good and so far I think it sounds better too :D
First picture shows the new listening couch, LP holders and lamp, plus foot stool (for big feet...)
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a373/gninnamag/Hifi/20180410_170036_zps83gbtsmo.jpg
Second picture shows the rig on its new/old rack (made the rack many years ago but never got to use it properly - not 100% happy with it so might change it down the line)
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a373/gninnamag/Hifi/20180410_170051_zpsw2f3bpx2.jpg
Also swapped out the Michell ISO MC phone stage for a Cairn Boost phono stage. It supports MC and MM and can be configured so playing around with some of the settings with the MC to see what sounds good
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a373/gninnamag/Hifi/CairnBoost1_zpsypwqkyet.jpg
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a373/gninnamag/Hifi/CairnBoost2_zpsb00ywd1y.jpg
Looks nice and cosy Andy! Well done.
rigger67
10-04-2018, 17:36
Great sofa !
Is it an old car seat by any chance ?? :)
Thanks Barry and andy :)
Great sofa !
Is it an old car seat by any chance ?? :)
That is why I chose it, but no, it is made from scratch by a local furniture retailer in Leeds - so comfy:smoking:
The couch reminds of the seats on the old 1960's buses. Very cool.
rigger67
11-04-2018, 08:25
That is why I chose it, but no, it is made from scratch by a local furniture retailer in Leeds - so comfy:smoking:
The fact it's from Leeds is enough for me - MOT :D
I so wish I could keep my listening room that tidy Andy LOL
Mike Reed
11-04-2018, 16:03
Thanks Barry and andy :)
That is why I chose it, but no, it is made from scratch by a local furniture retailer in Leeds - so comfy:smoking:
My leather sofa was destroyed by scratch (well, scratches from cats); I call it my perforated look !
Notice the Michell deck (Orbe or Gyro?) plus p/supply, as well as that v.f.m. British valved amplification. What happens when someone wants to come in through the doors behind? :) Not sure about the speakers in that narrow room, though.
My leather sofa was destroyed by scratch (well, scratches from cats); I call it my perforated look !
Notice the Michell deck (Orbe or Gyro?) plus p/supply, as well as that v.f.m. British valved amplification. What happens when someone wants to come in through the doors behind? :) Not sure about the speakers in that narrow room, though.
Cat so far has kept away from the sofa.....
Yes - deck is the Orbe and I can't remember the last time we used the sliding doors to be honest.
As for the sound, I am very pleased with what I am hearing in the room - sure if it was slightly wider then the speakers could 'breathe' a bit bitter, but to my ears I am well happy.
Just going to change the rack for something else so expect another photo in a few weeks time (another DIY rack).
That set up should allow you to keep your feet nice and warm. :)
Very nice. Oh! and I too am jealous of that settee.
That set up should allow you to keep your feet nice and warm. :)
Very nice. Oh! and I too am jealous of that settee.
Cheers Rob - settee is super comfortable :D
Spent the weekend changing the rack as wasn't happy with the original one.
Used the Ikea Lacks with extra wood inserted in the hollow legs allowing me to put inserts in so I could screw in spikes - looks a lot better and very stable.
A few pics:
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a373/gninnamag/Hifi/20180422_170207_zpsadkzv0ec.jpg
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a373/gninnamag/Hifi/20180422_170218_zpskavpgiwi.jpg
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a373/gninnamag/Hifi/20180422_170948_zps5ldyr9gb.jpg
Primalsea
22-04-2018, 16:56
+ another one on the sofa. It's great!
Your listening room looks very good!
BR,
Ivo
Always good to get a separate listening room. Especially if missus likes watching tv and you dont like this house :).
Your listening room looks very good!
BR,
Ivo
Always good to get a separate listening room. Especially if missus likes watching tv and you dont like this house :).
Thanks chaps.
Does work very well :eyebrows:
Look what I got through the post today:
https://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a373/gninnamag/Hifi/ORBE/20200318_135341_zps2xudch0j_edit_1584540308778_zps r7czizsf.jpg
https://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a373/gninnamag/Hifi/ORBE/20200318_135411_zpstzpov4rw_edit_1584540289603_zps ziekrlg8.jpg
Will be fitting this soon to the Orbe:)
Gobsmacked with what I am hearing with the new arm:eek:
https://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a373/gninnamag/Hifi/ORBE/20200320_194816_zpsmnwnpxzv.jpg
https://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a373/gninnamag/Hifi/ORBE/20200320_194821_zpsdnmgy72d.jpg
https://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a373/gninnamag/Hifi/ORBE/20200320_194831_zpsdxwptpek.jpg
Still needs more tweaking but couldn't wait to hear it and it is brilliant.
RobbieGong
20-03-2020, 22:13
Nice one Andy, glad it's working out nicely, looks the business too.... :thumbsup:
Made in 1968
20-03-2020, 22:23
Looks nice, Just some Black Acrylic now & it will be a real Darth vader.
Cheers chaps for the comments :)
Frazeur1
30-03-2020, 14:06
I'm gobsmacked(always loved that term) just looking at it! The room looks great too, nice job! Enjoy!
Thanks Timothy.
I do love the looks but always had a soft spot for the Michell products.
First TT I bought was a Syncro, then on to a Gyro and finally finished with my dream TT (plus my dream arm) and so happy with the end results :)
New acquisition
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20210819_171914.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Do I spy an SP10 under the lid?;)
And your weapons of choice for arm and cartridge will be?:)
Marco.
Do I spy an SP10 under the lid?;)
And your weapons of choice for arm and cartridge will be?:)
Marco.
You do indeed.
Using the SME V currently (arm board needs further tweaking but is close) and waiting on a new unipivot 12 inch arm, due this week and also my 12 inch wooden arm will get ago (just waiting on getting it rewired)
Sounding awesome so far :)
A few other pics (plinth needs a polish as showing hand prints :( ):
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20210822_103819.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20210822_100249.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Trying a 12 inch tonearm (unipivot) on the SP-10.
Using a MM cartridge with a Firebottle OTP MkII it is sounding encouraging. Just a bit of hum I need to sort but I will reduce the length of the tails going to the sockets underneath the arm board to see if that helps.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20210829_122224.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20210829_122137.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20210829_122126.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
A few other pics (plinth needs a polish as showing hand prints :( ):
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20210822_103819.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20210822_100249.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Beautiful, just beautiful. :)
Thanks Barry - sounds good too :)
Reduced the tails but still hums (as I thought it would)
Seems like I have some terrible airborne interference in my house (the fridge and freezer are only about 5 feet away in the kitchen so I bet they are the culprits).
When I touched the arm tube the hum went so the wires are acting as an antenna - need to look at earthing the arm some how - or would a ferrite ring do the job on the end of the tails under the arm board?
Sounds like the arm itself is not earthed properly.
Do you have a continuity tester? If so, check the continuity of the arm metalwork (say at the headshell, not at the base) with the earth lead that plugs into the arm base.
Sounds like the arm itself is not earthed properly.
Do you have a continuity tester? If so, check the continuity of the arm metalwork (say at the headshell, not at the base) with the earth lead that plugs into the arm base.
The PO of the arm says it shouldn't need earthing - but if I touch the arm the hum does god down a lot.
There is no earth lead on the base as it just has the tails coming to the RCA connectors.
Looks like I will need to find a way to earth it.....
Are we talking about the unipivot arm or the SME V?
The unipivot arm
The SME is perfect.
The unipivot arm
The SME is perfect.
Ah - there lays the problem. The arm/headshell needs to be earthed. You could do this via the unipivot, but you would need to continue the earthing along to the arm and headshell, as well as connecting an earth lead to the arm's unipivot base.
Ah - there lays the problem. The arm/headshell needs to be earthed. You could do this via the unipivot, but you would need to continue the earthing along to the arm and headshell, as well as connecting an earth lead to the arm's unipivot base.
Cheers - the guy who made it reckoned he never had to do that but suggested I look into it so I will try the arm base first and work up from there!
Haselsh1
03-09-2021, 14:18
Oh man, so jealous of a proper listening room.
:youtheman:
Oh man, so jealous of a proper listening room.
:youtheman:
:eyebrows:
Had a change today. Replaced the valves in the phono stage (Siemens PCC88 and Telefunken EC83)
Plus, put the Delrin black platter back on the Orbe.
Sounding very good :)
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20210904_154826.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20210904_154802.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
A bit of a change tonight.
Replaced the Puresound A30 valve amp with my Burston Bang - looks so tiny but pulls no punches with SQ and heft!
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20210906_202808.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Swapped the Rega RB300 with the Denon DL103M cartridge on to the SP-10 - sounds bloody good :)
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20210918_165409.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20210918_165351.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20210918_165329.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Due to bending the cantilever on my Denon DL103M cartridge I have roped into service one of my other A&R P77 cartridges - sounding pretty good :)
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20210925_131141.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Needed more room so I could have all 3 turntables on top.
Think I will get some glass doors for the left and right sides - works very well so far :)
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211028_211449.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211028_211418.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Needed more room so I could have all 3 turntables on top.
Think I will get some glass doors for the left and right sides - works very well so far :)
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211028_211449.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211028_211418.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
A very nice setup you have going on there.
I run my Pure Sound A30 with Reiver (MK1 Edingdales) too. It sounds good to my ears!
Enjoy Andy!!
A very nice setup you have going on there.
I run my Pure Sound A30 with Reiver (MK1 Edingdales) too. It sounds good to my ears!
Enjoy Andy!!
Thanks - Colin and Chris created cracking speakers over the years and they seem to work very well with valves - enjoy your setup too :)
Discovered in the back of the garage last week (owned by me for the last 25 years and before that , my uncle bought it new in '73 and gifted to me) - I have given it a quick clean and used some wire as an aerial.
I had a quick peek inside to make sure the capacitors look good then plumbed it into my pre-amp and used some wire as an aerial - just listened to Classic FM and it sounds very nice
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211107_121445.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211107_121346.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211107_121240.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
walpurgis
07-11-2021, 13:20
Looks good. I'd give the wood a going over with tan shoe polish and buff it up.
Looks good. I'd give the wood a going over with tan shoe polish and buff it up.
Thanks for the tip.
Shovel_Knight
07-11-2021, 16:04
Very nice, the TX-9100 is definitely one of the best tuners ever made.
Very nice, the TX-9100 is definitely one of the best tuners ever made.
My uncle had good taste when it came to listening to his music in '73 :)
Just listening again to classic FM and really impressive - must try some other stations!
Put the SME on the Techie and was going to put the RB300 back on the Orbe but couldn't find the old one.....
Bought another one and sprayed it gloss black to suit the rest of the deck - looks ok.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211118_192052.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211118_192027.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Now I have moved all the kit around and spaced everything out more I thought I would try the 12 inch unipivot arm again on the Technics.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211120_135656.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211120_135620.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211120_135559.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Sounds really good but I still have the hum.......
Looks like it will be for sale soon as for some reason it doesn't like my system!!
Got the tweaked DL103M back last week from North West Analogue and Dom has done a cracking job.
As the armboard is out for the SME-V on the SP-10 I just played one side of a record and the amount of detail coming from the speakers is brilliant - cant wait to get the armboard sorted....
Pics aren't the best but will do.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211120_154531.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211120_154451.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211120_154417.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211120_154340.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
YES :) :) :)
Worked on the armboard to get the right pivot to spindle distance and dialled in the overhang - sweet, sweet music :)
So we have the re-done DL103M with DHC cantilever and FGS profiled tip on the SME V atop the SP-10, through the BB3 hence on to the Myryad Z40 pre-amp on to the Pure Sound A30 (acting as a power amp) leaving the mighty fine Reiver Jenna speakers......... heaven
(can you tell that I am excited ;) )
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211127_135531.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211127_135506.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Shovel_Knight
27-11-2021, 17:39
Fantastic system :youtheman:
Fantastic system :youtheman:
Thanks Pavel:D
Today I decided to spray the armboard on the SP-10 gloss black - should do until next year when the weather warms so I can sand it down and coat it properly.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211205_151953.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/IMG_20211205_151916.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
That deck and arm combo look superb, SME V is one mean looking machine :cool:
That deck and arm combo look superb, SME V is one mean looking machine :cool:
Good news is that it sounds pretty decent too :)
Hi there, may I ask the distance from your speakers to your sofa . I am moving house and my room space is not very big.Thanks radio.
Rush2112
03-02-2023, 20:00
Gobsmacked with what I am hearing with the new arm:eek:
https://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a373/gninnamag/Hifi/ORBE/20200320_194816_zpsmnwnpxzv.jpg
https://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a373/gninnamag/Hifi/ORBE/20200320_194821_zpsdnmgy72d.jpg
https://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a373/gninnamag/Hifi/ORBE/20200320_194831_zpsdxwptpek.jpg
Still needs more tweaking but couldn't wait to hear it and it is brilliant.Thats what a SME V will do to you , you put on a record you know well and then there are all these things you didn't realise were there !https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20230203/27780e58d31e762110800d9b797ebb08.jpg
Sent from my SM-G960F using Tapatalk
Puresound A30 just picked up by DPD so had some space on the rack.
Pulled from the garage the Lenco GL75, bit of a dust and clean, reset the VTF etc then checked the speed (running a little fast using the detent but now rock solid at 33.3) and but a record on.
Sounding really nice. Full and rich as they say.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20230821_134336.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20230821_134407.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20230821_134327.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
The GL75 has been in the family for exactly 50 years nearly to the day - was my mum's uncle's before coming my way around 25 years ago and still sounding sweat.
They always sound sweet. Great TT and even though the arm looks a bit agricultural it still sounds very good.
They always sound sweet. Great TT and even though the arm looks a bit agricultural it still sounds very good.
Yep - had many GL75's over the years but had this for ever. (arm has had the dental floss treatment to keep it erect........)
Sorted out my cartridges for the Lenco.
Furthest away is a GE RPX061 for mono duties.
Middle is an A&R P77 with an ESCo modded paratrace diamond
Closest is the Ortofon OM10 with a 78 stylus.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20230829_184752.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Some nice classics lined up there Andy.:)
Pulled from the garage the Lenco GL75, bit of a dust and clean, reset the VTF etc then checked the speed (running a little fast using the detent but now rock solid at 33.3) and but a record on.
If the speed is not exact when the speed control lever is in the detent position for that speed, it can be corrected by adjusting the cross-headed screw corresponding to the speed position. I can't remember which way you turn the screw, but it is easy enough to do if you use a stroboscope disc.
Some nice classics lined up there Andy.:)
Thanks - sound good too.
If the speed is not exact when the speed control lever is in the detent position for that speed, it can be corrected by adjusting the cross-headed screw corresponding to the speed position. I can't remember which way you turn the screw, but it is easy enough to do if you use a stroboscope disc.
Yep - on my list of things to get too eventually.
If the speed is not exact when the speed control lever is in the detent position for that speed, it can be corrected by adjusting the cross-headed screw corresponding to the speed position. I can't remember which way you turn the screw, but it is easy enough to do if you use a stroboscope disc.
Glad you mentioned that Barry as I have had problems setting the 45RPM on my Lenco. Got 33 nailed but 45 is all over the place! I will try and adjust tomorrow.
Had a change round today so the SME V arm is now sitting on the Orbe and looking mighty fine too.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20230930_161036.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20230930_161026.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20230930_161052.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
And some pictures of what has now gone on to the SP10:
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20230930_162905.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20230930_162828.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20230930_162820.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20230930_162815.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Yep, got myself one of those PMAC AT1010 Mk8 :)
Didn't like the way the ORBE looked with the SME V mounted - the pillar sticks up a lot.
Rummaged through my bits and found some bobbins:
Before (not a great photo but hope you can see how far the pillar sits above the arm board):
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20230930_161052.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
And after:
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20231007_154059.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20231007_154130.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
No noticeable difference in the SQ so happy :)
Your gear looks amazing Andy. Analogue heaven. How do you choose which one to use!
I don't usually like the look of the SP10 but yours is about the best I have seen. That tonearm on it looks like its got some new bearings.:)
Your gear looks amazing Andy. Analogue heaven. How do you choose which one to use!
I don't usually like the look of the SP10 but yours is about the best I have seen. That tonearm on it looks like its got some new bearings.:)
Thanks. The SP10 does look good all in black. The arm has more than just the bearings and sounds fantastic.
How do I choose which one to use? With great difficulty :)
As the Orbe didn't sell I decided to put it back to as it was to eek the best performance from it.
Pete's Pylons, Pete's Feet and the acrylic platter.
Just needs a slight tweak as the platter is running just over 33.3 (33.4) so tomorrow I will get my DM out to play with the PSU.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20231217_132536.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/a373/gninnamag/20231217_132620.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Whoops - not updated this thread for some time - sorry :)
A few changes have happened and I will share over the next few days.
The biggest change are the speakers - I always wanted to try a pair of electrostatics and have managed last month to get a pair.
They are DIY and based on a kit from Australia by a company called ER Audio - the pair I have are ESL III's, built around 10 years or so and sounding very good (yes, electrostatics speakers do do bass).
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/1ae7ecf7-29bd-4e5f-a708-80d7e0aa8a9f.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
More change updates to come.
Pete The Cat
18-06-2026, 07:43
Whoops - not updated this thread for some time - sorry :)
The biggest change are the speakers - I always wanted to try a pair of electrostatics and have managed last month to get a pair.
They are DIY and based on a kit from Australia by a company called ER Audio - the pair I have are ESL III's, built around 10 years or so and sounding very good (yes, electrostatics speakers do do bass).
Wow. Something I like about electrostatics is that they're an uncompromising statement. No hiding them, and no rare wood or designer sculpture to placate other members of the household.
I haven't heard of this model before. How did you come across them?
Wow. Something I like about electrostatics is that they're an uncompromising statement. No hiding them, and no rare wood or designer sculpture to placate other members of the household.
I haven't heard of this model before. How did you come across them?
So true about their imposing nature!
The plan is to change the appearance as the wood finish is just varnish and a lot of areas it has started to flake off so I will strip the varnish off and then darken the frames.
I am on several other forums and on one of them, one of the members was having a 'cull' of his HiFi gear and offered these speakers to the first person who showed interest which happens to me.
I went to his house to check them out and have a listen and thought they sounded really good so would have them.
Hired a van as to big for my car and the rest is history.
Really loving the sound quality (looks are OK) and plan to keep them for some time.
Really interesting Andy, I had never heard of them either - every day’s a school day! I agree in a darker finish they would look good. We look forward to seeing how they turn out!
Pete The Cat
18-06-2026, 10:05
I am on several other forums and on one of them, one of the members was having a 'cull' of his HiFi gear and offered these speakers to the first person who showed interest which happens to me.
This is what the internet is really for :)
I find that once I start refurbishing something it means I'm invested in it for the long term.
Thanks guys. Looking forward to changing these but other projects are the queue first - will cover these later.
Another change was the pre amp - used to use a Myryad Z40 which worked very well but fancied a change.
Always used Michell turntable and lusted after the pre amps but couldn't afford etc... one came up on a HiFi forum which had also be tweaked by Tom Evans to his Vibe 1.5 level.
It was an Argo HR but now changed - the changes include that I am aware of but not limited to:
Single volume pot
Replaced all RCA connectors with solid copper ones
Not sure whether the circuit board is replaced or just tweaked - hopefully someone more knowledgeable will know
It lost the tape input but gained a headphone socket which also sounds very good!
Also it came with the a Tom Evans PSU so performs very well indeed.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/5ca0a82a-4436-4c84-bf4b-40d73237a5bd.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/7ab39367-3933-4880-ae56-e64d9af2a2c9.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Cheers
Pigmy Pony
18-06-2026, 12:38
Wow. Something I like about electrostatics is that they're an uncompromising statement. No hiding them, and no rare wood or designer sculpture to placate other members of the household.
I haven't heard of this model before. How did you come across them?
I agree with that Pete, they do look cool imo. It's just a shame they have to be so BIG and so W I D E (obviously no getting round that). I would have to move house or build a dedicated room.
A lottery win would sort that. Doesn't have to be Euro Millions, I'm not greedy. Just enough to build a big enough room so speaker size doesn't matter :)
Andy, do they work well close to the front wall? Whenever I'd heard electrostatics or panel speakers (Magneplanar and recently Fonica Flag M), they all had a fair bit of space behind them.
They are about 2 foot from the wall and to my ears sound very good - yet to experiment with further placement changes yet so will report back when I have but could probably only come out a further 40 cm or so.
I still have my speakers behind so will get those moved soon to see how that affects the sound.
So true about their imposing nature!
The plan is to change the appearance as the wood finish is just varnish and a lot of areas it has started to flake off so I will strip the varnish off and then darken the frames.
I am on several other forums and on one of them, one of the members was having a 'cull' of his HiFi gear and offered these speakers to the first person who showed interest which happens to me.
I went to his house to check them out and have a listen and thought they sounded really good so would have them.
Hired a van as to big for my car and the rest is history.
Really loving the sound quality (looks are OK) and plan to keep them for some time.
If you match the finish to your fireplace surround that might work?
Pigmy Pony
18-06-2026, 22:08
If you match the finish to your fireplace surround that might work?
If you grew your hair a bit you could pass for Lawrence Llewellyn Bowen :)
https://i.postimg.cc/V6fVjrPV/technics.jpg
That's a gorgeous Technics Andy :)
I agree with that Pete, they do look cool imo. It's just a shame they have to be so BIG and so W I D E (obviously no getting round that). I would have to move house or build a dedicated room.
Andy, do they work well close to the front wall? Whenever I'd heard electrostatics or panel speakers (Magneplanar and recently Fonica Flag M), they all had a fair bit of space behind them.
Lovely system you have there Andy. Well done! I love both the Technics deck and the SME arm and would put them together if they were mine.
Apropos the speakers, most if not all, planar speakers have a dipole polar sound distribution. That is, almost as much sound is radiated from the rear of the speaker as from the front. Therefore the speakers ideally need to be placed about a metre away from any hard surface behind them in order to prevent problems with reflection. If the rear wall has some sound absorbing material on it then you might be able to get away with a smaller distance.
To answer Steve's question: all planar speakers need to be reasonably large so as to move a sufficient volume of air. Planar speakers have a limit on the amount their diaphragms can move. For electrostatic speakers, the charged diaphragm is located between a pair of perforated driving electrodes spaced only a few mm apart. Thus the amount of fore/aft movement is very small, so the area has to be made large to compensate. Electrostatic speakers are thus either wide or tall, and in some cases both.
If you match the finish to your fireplace surround that might work?
Could do but will see ;)
https://i.postimg.cc/V6fVjrPV/technics.jpg
That's a gorgeous Technics Andy :)
Cheers Tim - for me it is one of the best SP10's I have seen :D
Lovely system you have there Andy. Well done! I love both the Technics deck and the SME arm and would put them together if they were mine.
Apropos the speakers, most if not all, planar speakers have a dipole polar sound distribution. That is, almost as much sound is radiated from the rear of the speaker as from the front. Therefore the speakers ideally need to be placed about a metre away from any hard surface behind them in order to prevent problems with reflection. If the rear wall has some sound absorbing material on it then you might be able to get away with a smaller distance.
To answer Steve's question: all planar speakers need to be reasonably large so as to move a sufficient volume of air. Planar speakers have a limit on the amount their diaphragms can move. For electrostatic speakers, the charged diaphragm is located between a pair of perforated driving electrodes spaced only a few mm apart. Thus the amount of fore/aft movement is very small, so the area has to be made large to compensate. Electrostatic speakers are thus either wide or tall, and in some cases both.
Thanks Barry - The SME V used to be on the SP10 and it was good, but the AT1010 just works better for my ears (not eyes) for the SQ.
Yep, I am aware of how they work regarding the rear radiation.
At the moment, where they are positioned and from my listening chair, they do sound very good but I know they can be improved upon.
First will be to remove the speakers from behind and judge what has changed - baby steps and all that :)
Continuing on this changed/updated/tweak, many years ago (30 plus) I was gifted a Leak Lenco GL75 turntable (pics are a few pages back) with a matching Leak Delta 30 integrated amp, a JVC cassette deck and some Hitachi speakers (they were my great uncles and when he passed away were given to me by the family).
The cassette deck and speakers were quickly binned as pure garbage but the TT and amp stayed and went into the garage.
Not long after I decided to play around with the TT and re-lubed and aligned the motor, changed the V blocks etc and started to use it - and very good it was too.
The amp stayed in the garage and apart from checking it worked that was it.
Fast forward to last year and the next MAV show was due so I thought I would put together a retro (vintage) system. The damp garage had taken its toll on the wooden casework of the amp but the amp still worked so I decided to make a new casework.
What to use to make it - well in the garden we had a very old garden bench but the wooden slats had seen better days and I had removed them (made new ones from an old oak gatepost) and decided to see if I could use them.
Pics below:
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/7efd73cd-da08-4d93-9526-60c48901a5ae.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/5f3724aa-4235-4079-8bce-87681646d74f.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/b9111cc1-e727-46de-af03-59e065fc197b.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Old case on the right, new on the left before being oiled and waxed.
Some Servisol on the various switches and we have a presentable and working Delta 30 :)
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/c6090ab4-f6f9-4dd3-be68-b7387f0484df.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
The setup at the last MAV show:
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/967a6692-b982-4a54-987c-7d54a80223ba.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
The speakers used were not what I was hoping to take but ran out of time to rebuild these (will show these in my next update)
Cheers
Wow - I greatly admire your woodworking skills! You have made an excellent job with the new case.
The only additional improvement, IMO, would be to find a Leak Stereo 30 having the earlier facia. :sofa:
Wow - I greatly admire your woodworking skills! You have made an excellent job with the new case.
The only additional improvement, IMO, would be to find a Leak Stereo 30 having the earlier facia. :sofa:
No, I don't think the older ones as pretty. I used to have the '30 plus' that I bought out the local paper which came along with the updated Delta 30 tuner (which I still have) and a Sanyo direct drive TT (in matching veneered plinth) but I gave the amp and TT away a long time back.
Pigmy Pony
19-06-2026, 11:27
:respect: Really nice job on the amp Andy. What is the wood you used? I see the old casework is veneered chipboard, which when exposed to moisture turns to weetabix. Not ideal.
Edit: is your new casework the opposite way up to the original? If so, will it matter when it comes to ventilation?
Cheers Tim - for me it is one of the best SP10's I have seen :D
I agree, most of the one's I've seen I wouldn't want on display - your's is in a different league :)
Wow - I greatly admire your woodworking skills! You have made an excellent job with the new case.
The only additional improvement, IMO, would be to find a Leak Stereo 30 having the earlier facia. :sofa:
Thanks Barry. The sound of the Delta 30 is very 'nice'. The long term plan is this will be going to my daughter.
:respect: Really nice job on the amp Andy. What is the wood you used? I see the old casework is veneered chipboard, which when exposed to moisture turns to weetabix. Not ideal.
Edit: is your new casework the opposite way up to the original? If so, will it matter when it comes to ventilation?
Thanks Steve.
I believe the wood is Teak but not 100% sure.
Regarding the ventilation holes, I replicated what the original casework had but slightly bigger so it should be better than before :)
I agree, most of the one's I've seen I wouldn't want on display - your's is in a different league :)
Many thanks :)
Pigmy Pony
19-06-2026, 21:35
Thanks Steve.
I believe the wood is Teak but not 100% sure.
Regarding the ventilation holes, I replicated what the original casework had but slightly bigger so it should be better than before :)
Whichever it is, looks great. And count yourself lucky your daughter can appreciate something like that - my two daughters both like their music but couldn't give a toss what it comes out of.
Further continuance :)
Got given these many moons ago and they were just stuffed in the garage as I didn't have any need for them.
Maybe 3 years or so ago I was running out of space in the garage so had a clear out, the cabinets of the Dovedales were in a sorry state so decided to pull the drivers out and keep them and chuck the cabinets out.
For the MAV show last year I thought - "I know, why not build new cabinets for the drivers and use these at the show" - sadly ran out of time so did'nt get to take them
Bought some ply and managed to get the dimensions of the cabinets off of the interweb, and created a cut list and started cutting.
So far so good, but I made a balls up in the sizing and realised that the cabinet volume would be wrong........
Luckily I had a sheet of MDF knocking around so started again.
A few pics for your perusal:
This is the original cabinets - weighed a tonne - look better in the pics but they were toast!
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/e299d762-1d9a-4ef0-a5ec-8137610bcead.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Build using MDF (18mm) and trawling the NET for volume and dimensions etc (99% of the searches only showed info for the Dovedale 3's which came after the III's)
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/6d60dbb0-7d1b-43f4-ae81-42041603c083.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Crossovers were checked and seemed to be good but I decided to replace the capacitors anyway:
Before:
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/1297c211-1750-48c7-95ab-591f646c772b.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
After:
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/d4ce4339-6c45-4fab-86f6-8d3306df1270.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
With the baffles made I thought it would be a good time to test the drivers out:
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/43996219-4983-4184-812b-55c2f495a2ab.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/cb4d9001-e525-4495-bc59-ec52b84cd6e4.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
All drivers worked so a happy chappy.
First glue up wasn't good so decided to add some rebates and had another go.
Pics with the cabinets rebated (the one on the right is the cabinet that was glued up and pulled apart):
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/b4f56be1-e73a-43e6-808c-b33fa95538ac.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Test fit with the drivers:
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/2a54302f-865c-4560-8365-34e24b797a3d.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
The mid driver needs to be separated from the bass driver and needs around 1.7 litres of space so got hold of some 150mm PVC pipe and cut it down to size, around 110mm in length (gives around 1.9 litres but with the end cap in place should be about right:
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/62bb3ffd-3ee1-4ea6-adcf-848589d5a09c.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Trial fit (also made some bracing which needs making more aerodynamic ;) )
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/ab2d1fe2-09e3-4d4f-a4b6-39dec8aa3d21.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
The brace was made more aerodynamic - holes drilled in and the edges were radiused and pocket holes added.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/70e1ae7b-527e-4db0-a67a-f37f281d9214.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Added material in to the speaker cabinet, rewired the drivers and put in the sealant so that the drivers and the back of the cabinet create an airtight box.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/af3fbd67-482d-42b6-802e-94614440270a.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/58d96248-dc33-4464-bef2-e21bf9e299d0.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/e2b02e3e-9f97-48e7-8443-be3d018bbc29.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Once the pair had been built, decided to check that all was good
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/01c97861-ecc8-4dc5-95fd-ed7dadd6ca3e.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Decided they needed lifting up a bit plus a slight (5 degree or so) angle to align the tweeter better so made some little stands:
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/54c1adc3-326e-4413-b9dd-9122553119d3.jpeg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
So, ready for some veneer - the first veneer I bought didn't work to well so after plenty of sanding got some different veneer (Red Ebony) and set to work.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/ab85548c-da79-4190-8d3a-115132264147.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/09227379-71d8-4d03-b6fe-7224e9237414.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Oil and wax applied - looking very nice :)
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/e0199425-aa20-4ff4-b7ac-6bfbbd5463a2.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Finished and working and sounding alright:
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/ae2a3a94-0df9-43bf-b88f-45f6ca6452b0.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/9fcdc51a-03aa-4deb-927d-eb3978e591bf.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/0b827ead-14b1-4205-9d13-d13fcc12854c.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Will be used at the next MAV show if anyone wants to come and have a listen.
Lawrence001
23-06-2026, 10:35
I'll definitely pop in if I'm there, hoping to go, I haven't missed a year in about 8 now.
Pete The Cat
23-06-2026, 10:44
Great pictures and storytelling:popcorn:
I've refurbed a couple of turntables but not speakers, yet. That veneer is lovely.
I'll definitely pop in if I'm there, hoping to go, I haven't missed a year in about 8 now.
Look forward to meeting you.
Great pictures and storytelling:popcorn:
I've refurbed a couple of turntables but not speakers, yet. That veneer is lovely.
Thanks. Veneer does look nice.
Wakefield Turntables
23-06-2026, 17:23
Andy,
Nice to see you posting on AOS and especially with some new content for over here! Speakers are looking good, do you have anything else up your sleeve?
Andy,
Nice to see you posting on AOS and especially with some new content for over here! Speakers are looking good, do you have anything else up your sleeve?
Hi Andrew :)
Thanks for the kind words.
I have a few other things I am working on (mainly for the MAV show).
Trying to fix and smarten up an Armstrong 521 integrated amp and I will also be building another Lenco GL75/8 based turntable soon.
Got another pair of Wharfedale Dovedale III's in reasonable condition.
Plan will be to tidy up the cabinets and re-veneer, re-cap the crossovers, new grill fabric and whatever else needs to be done (but will have to wait till after the MAV show).
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/57a7998f-fd03-4b61-952a-d580ba1491a8.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Also, the rubber on the feet of my Argo HR pre-amp, 3 were missing so printed a full set and all good :)
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/938744b9-aece-431e-94fe-2084297f26f9.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Speakers look great- well done with the veneering.
(BTW, seeing the books near your speakers, are you interested in fashion design?)
Speakers look great- well done with the veneering.
(BTW, seeing the books near your speakers, are you interested in fashion design?)
Thanks Barry.
Regarding the books, my daughter did a fashion masters degree and my wife is massively into fashion so the books will belong to one of those
You have a 3D printer?
Yep - used some of my retirement tax free cash to get a decent one and so far not stopped printing :)
Yep - used some of my retirement tax free cash to get a decent one and so far not stopped printing :)
I need a printer to print me some retirement tax free cash :)
I need a printer to print me some retirement tax free cash :)
Leave it with me and lets see what I can come up with ;)
Pigmy Pony
16-07-2026, 13:04
I saw a thing on telly the other day where a bloke had 3d-printed a couple of functioning assault rifles. It earned him 5 years at His Majesty's pleasure, so probably best to stick to component feet :)
I saw a thing on telly the other day where a bloke had 3d-printed a couple of functioning assault rifles. It earned him 5 years at His Majesty's pleasure, so probably best to stick to component feet :)
:lol:
A few days ago I printed out some 'isolation feet'.
The top and bottom use TPU (like a rubbery plastic) with the rest being of the solid verity, they are hollow where you add your own product to assist with the isolation so I had some silicon hanging around to used that in them.
Got them under the pre-amp (no discernible difference to the SQ) but will try under a TT or speakers at some stage.
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/d6cec28f-5866-4eb9-9ac9-80422dba6b95.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/89e369f0-4ad4-44dc-b22e-92f32c619b8b.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/04edb85d-95de-41ad-8d2b-4894d75799b9.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
Moved the Wharfedale Dovedale III's into storage until the next MAV show so now enjoying the electrostatics again :)
https://hosting.photobucket.com/38ffab8c-5ede-4a0c-9e9c-4c4e66dbcf8a/ba0af616-bb8a-4d74-ac15-dcc2fbec6543.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds
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