Magna Audio's custom-made counterweight balance and armboard service! [Archive] - Page 2

krugdoktor

13-11-2013, 16:48

Hi Mike

the lowest price I could find for the Ortofon TA-110 (which is BTW the only Ortofon tonearm that fits the Techy AND that's currently available) is from this greek seller.
http://athensproaudio.gr/hi-fi/players/tone-arms/ortofon-ta-110-9-static-balance-en.html
The arm got a great review from Adam Smith (Beobloke).
http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=14&ved=0CI0BEBYwDQ&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.speakerbits.com%2Findex.php%3 Fpage%3Dshop.getfile%26file_id%3D833%26product_id% 3D3715%26option%3Dcom_virtuemart&ei=E62DUoyiPIrO4QSYoYHoDw&usg=AFQjCNFStChvZr-6jHbOY01MJFddgp9lGQ&bvm=bv.56343320,d.bGE

Hope this helps

Marco

13-11-2013, 18:48

http://www.henleydesigns.co.uk/TA-110-p882

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Ortofon-TA-210-Tonearm-/200980742974?pt=UK_AudioTVElectronics_HomeAudioHiF i_Turntables&hash=item2ecb62c33e

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/200883097820?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1438.l2649

Hi Mike,

Obviously the TA-210 is out, as it's a 12" arm...

I do rate the new TA-110, and if I were getting one I would buy it from Simon (at Hi-fi Sound in Stockton-on-Tees), where I've bought all my Ortofon 'bits', as he's a top bloke and *may* give you a small discount, most likely if you mention my name ;)

However, IMO, the RS-212D is the better tonearm (built to a higher, more exacting standard, which includes the 'Dynamic Balance' system that improves tracking - an effect I have tested, and so can confirm its efficacy). However, before ordering it from joynetcafe (whom I've used before and can recommend), I'd check with Simon to see if Henley can still obtain stock.

If not, I'd go for the brand new RS-212D from joynetcafe - but if you're serious about obtaining this tonearm then I'd bag it ASAP before stocks dry up completely! :)

Although, like I said, give Simon a shout first: http://www.hifisound.co.uk/

Marco.

Marco

13-11-2013, 18:53

Hi Michael,

the lowest price I could find for the Ortofon TA-110 (which is BTW the only Ortofon tonearm that fits the Techy...)

Sorry, that is untrue, as I'm currently listening to an Ortofon RS-212D (with an SPU Royal GM fitted) playing music on my own Techy!!

Oh look, here it is (as per my avatar):

http://img708.imageshack.us/img708/3799/m8ge.jpg

;)

Marco.

Marco

13-11-2013, 19:38

Hi Steve,

I've been through the 12" arm thing and back again.
12" arms I tried sound great for bass and highs but lack the drive / get up and go of a 9".

I concur completely, as those are the results of my own findings. The best 9" arms, quite simply, 'boogie' better. 12" arms may be technically more accurate (they certainly sound smoother), but they sure as hell aren't as much fun to listen to - certainly not to my ears! :nono:

Marco.

MikeMusic

14-11-2013, 08:30

MikeMusic

14-11-2013, 08:34

Hi Mike,

Obviously the TA-210 is out, as it's a 12" arm...

I do rate the new TA-110, and if I were getting one I would buy it from Simon (at Hi-fi Sound in Stockton-on-Tees), where I've bought all my Ortofon 'bits', as he's a top bloke and *may* give you a small discount, most likely if you mention my name ;)

However, IMO, the RS-212D is the better tonearm (built to a higher, more exacting standard, which includes the 'Dynamic Balance' system that improves tracking - an effect I have tested, and so can confirm its efficacy). However, before ordering it from joynetcafe (whom I've used before and can recommend), I'd check with Simon to see if Henley can still obtain stock.

If not, I'd go for the brand new RS-212D from joynetcafe - but if you're serious about obtaining this tonearm then I'd bag it ASAP before stocks dry up completely! :)

Although, like I said, give Simon a shout first: http://www.hifisound.co.uk/

Marco.
Thanks Marco
£1400 seems like a hell of a price to beat.
I'll give Simon a nudge.
I wasn't in a rush until you said they stopped making them !

Magna Audio

14-11-2013, 08:48

Hmm, the TA-110 9" doesn't look like a SPU carrier somehow? Effective mass 3.5g? Headshell mass 15.5g. Plus 0-3g tracking force range.

My Royal N only came alive once in the FR64s headshell / arm effective mass of the 64s is 35g:)

Effective mass data on the 212D seem a bit elusive but the range is 0-4.5g or 0-5g.

Do I read it then as Ortofon don't have a 9" arm to handle the SPUs they make? Seems odd. Perhaps they have a CW booster?

Thanks Michael
So this is a replacement for the 212D.....

JazzBones

14-11-2013, 11:08

Hi Steve,

I concur completely, as those are the results of my own findings. The best 9" arms, quite simply, 'boogie' better. 12" arms may be technically more accurate (they certainly sound smoother), but they sure as hell aren't as much fun to listen to! :nono:

Marco.

Marco, what would be your gut feeling and wisdom beyond years experience about using a Naim Aro unipivot arm on a highly specced 1210 complete with SS ebony or African hardwood mounting board... Something I would like to try at a future date? At the mo I'm using a modified (AO silver wired, damped) Linn Ekos. I swapped back to this after using a Jelco 750D, which I still own, preferring the Ekos (Akos :)). The JellyD is still a very good arm which I will be using on my Modified LP12 (Office system). Avid do, or did, an SME slide fitting to accommodate the Aro which would allow for adjustment and also provide a useful arm clip to hold the Aro in place when not as opposed to the horrible right angle nail that Naim themselves use as an arm rest.
Ron

Marco

14-11-2013, 11:11

Thanks Marco
£1400 seems like a hell of a price to beat.
I'll give Simon a nudge.
I wasn't in a rush until you said they stopped making them !

No worries, dude. Don't forget that, being in the UK, Simon is only a quick phone call away, should any problems arise, and he has an excellent relationship with Henley (the UK importers for Ortofon products).

I've had first-hand experience of his (and Henley's) excellent customer service. You will not have the same level of care or peace of mind by ordering directly from Japan. I'm not saying that joynetcafe wouldn't look after you, but the fact is they're 1000's of miles way and don't have the same infrastructure in place (in terms of handling the sale of Ortofon products), as Hi-fi Sound and/or Henley, so I'd think carefully about that....

Furthermore, don't forget how much you'll get hammered for tax and import duty, should you buy direct from Japan (and it will be significant, so be sure to factor that into the equation), not to mention the risk of anything getting lost or damaged en-route to you. If Simon can get an RS-212D, he'll simply order it from Henley, and you'll be covered for all eventualities along the way, not to mention, when the arm arrives at Simon's place, it'll be examined and tested before it is sent onto you.

Therefore, if it were me, I'd have to be saving PLENTY, and I mean plenty, (by ordering it from Japan), for it to outweigh the advantages of going through Simon - *if* he can get you the tonearm in question :)

Keep us posted of the outcome!

Marco.

MikeMusic

14-11-2013, 11:32

No worries, dude. Don't forget that, being in the UK, Simon is only a quick phone call away, should any problems arise, and he has an excellent relationship with Henley (the UK importers for Ortofon products).

I've had first-hand experience of his (and Henley's) excellent customer service. You will not have the same level of care or peace of mind by ordering directly from Japan. I'm not saying that joynetcafe wouldn't look after you, but the fact is they're 1000's of miles way and don't have the same infrastructure in place, as Hi-fi Sound and/or Henley, so I'd think carefully about that....

Furthermore, don't forget how much you'll get hammered for tax and import duty, should you buy direct from Japan (and it will be significant, so be sure to factor that into the equation), not to mention the risk of anything getting lost or damaged en-route to you. If Simon can get an RS-212D, he'll simply order it from Henley, and you'll be covered for all eventualities along the way, not to mention, when the arm arrives at Simon's place, it'll be examined and tested before it is sent onto you.

Therefore, if it were me, I'd have to be saving PLENTY, and I mean plenty, (by ordering it from Japan), for it to outweigh the advantages of going through Simon - *if* he can get you the tonearm in question :)

Keep us posted of the outcome!

Marco.

Thanks Marco
Take a stab at customs duties on £1400
Remember to stick your finger in the air
:)

Marco

14-11-2013, 11:32

Hi Steve,

Hmm, the TA-110 9" doesn't look like a SPU carrier somehow? Effective mass 3.5g? Headshell mass 15.5g. Plus 0-3g tracking force range.

My Royal N only came alive once in the FR64s headshell / arm effective mass of the 64s is 35g

Effective mass data on the 212D seem a bit elusive but the range is 0-4.5g or 0-5g.

Do I read it then as Ortofon don't have a 9" arm to handle the SPUs they make? Seems odd. Perhaps they have a CW booster?

Indeed there is (scroll down and see the section regarding installing the 'extra mass ring' for the TA-110): http://www.ortofon.com/products/tonearms/ta-110 Also, 3g VTF is the max that can be achieved, using the stock CW. With the extra mass ring fitted, that will change significantly!

I wouldn't pay too much attention to the spec for the RS-212D, in terms of mass, as one also has to consider how much mass the grinded wooden headshell adds to the equation, which the SPU is housed within, including the mounting hardware and wires.

Furthermore, and most importantly, you've heard the 212D, in conjunction with my (then) SPU Classic GM(E), in your own system, when I was down at your place, having my ebony armboard fitted, and if you remember, it didn't exactly sound shabby (or did any sonic evidence exist suggesting a lack of mass)! ;)

We also compared my T/T, fitted with said arm and cartridge, with your SP10/FR64S/SPU Silver-Meister, if you remember... :)

Marco.

Marco

14-11-2013, 11:38

Thanks Marco
Take a stab at customs duties on £1400
Remember to stick your finger in the air
:)

Based on previous experience, I reckon you'd be looking at around £200-250, plus it could be held up in Customs for weeks, especially at this time of year...

Marco.

MikeMusic

14-11-2013, 11:46

Based on previous experience, I reckon you'd be looking at around £200-250, plus it could be held up in Customs for weeks, especially at this time of year...

Marco.

Thanks Marco. And I won't/can't hold you to that as I know customs make up the rules as they go along

Marco

14-11-2013, 11:51

Hi Ron,

Nice to see you popping in again, matey! I hope that life is treating you well :)

Marco, what would be your gut feeling and wisdom beyond years experience about using a Naim Aro unipivot arm on a highly specced 1210 complete with SS ebony or African hardwood mounting board... Something I would like to try at a future date? At the mo I'm using a modified (AO silver wired, damped) Linn Ekos. I swapped back to this after using a Jelco 750D, which I still own, preferring the Ekos (Akos). The JellyD is still a very good arm which I will be using on my Modified LP12 (Office system). Avid do, or did, an SME slide fitting to accommodate the Aro which would allow for adjustment and also provide a useful arm clip to hold the Aro in place when not as opposed to the horrible right angle nail that Naim themselves use as an arm rest.

First of all, I'm not surprised you like the Ekos, as others I trust have reported success with that combination, and knowing the sonic signature of both the Techy and the Ekos, I can see why it would work!

As for unipivots, yup, if you fancy it, I'd go for it. The unipivots I've heard so far on the Technics (Hadcock GH242 Integra, Roksan Nima) sound FAB, creating a rather 'musically infectious' sound, full of colour (in a good way) and insight. If the Aro (a tonearm which I've always rated highly) can be successfully mounted onto the Technics, with the right cartridge, I'm sure the results would be fantastic :cool:

Marco.

Marco

14-11-2013, 11:54

Thanks Marco. And I won't/can't hold you to that as I know customs make up the rules as they go along

No worries, dude. You have to weigh it up carefully for yourself. However, if Simon can get the arm, I know what I would do.

Marco.

MikeMusic

14-11-2013, 12:36

No worries, dude. You have to weigh it up carefully for yourself. However, if Simon can get the arm, I know what I would do.

Marco.
And seeing you and Ron talking about an Aro
I have one, currently on the LP12...

Marco

14-11-2013, 13:10

Indeed, but you'd have a bugger of a job trying to fit your SPU onto it...! ;)

Marco.

MikeMusic

14-11-2013, 13:28

Indeed, but you'd have a bugger of a job trying to fit your SPU onto it...! ;)

Marco.

Couple of elastic bands and a hard push ?
:)

Marco

14-11-2013, 13:35

I don't really wish to discuss your bedroom activities here :eyebrows:

Marco.

Magna Audio

14-11-2013, 15:18

Hi Steve,

Indeed there is (scroll down and see the section regarding installing the 'extra mass ring' for the TA-110): http://www.ortofon.com/products/tonearms/ta-110 Also, 3g VTF is the max that can be achieved, using the stock CW. With the extra mass ring fitted, that will change significantly!

I wouldn't pay too much attention to the spec for the RS-212D, in terms of mass, as one also has to consider how much mass the grinded wooden headshell adds to the equation, which the SPU is housed within, including the mounting hardware and wires.

Furthermore, and most importantly, you've heard the 212D, in conjunction with my (then) SPU Classic GM(E), in your own system, when I was down at your place, having my ebony armboard fitted, and if you remember, it didn't exactly sound shabby (or did any sonic evidence exist suggesting a lack of mass)! ;)

We also compared my T/T, fitted with said arm and cartridge, with your SP10/FR64S/SPU Silver-Meister, if you remember... :)

Marco.

Oh yes I remember - Great day. Making the armboard - fitting and listening all in one longish day;)

It did sound superb so I have no worries on the 212D. It was the new kid on the block I was referring too.

Indeed the SPU wooden or other contruction headshell inc cart weigh about 30g. The FR64s headshell and Royal N cart weigh in at 32g.

Magna Audio

14-11-2013, 15:20

Here is the latest ebony board for the SME 309 fitting.

In the post today Phil;) along with your SME template and the fitting kit. I'll send some instructions on fitting. Its pretty simple but the blind nut plates fit in a certain way...
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/767f17517e8dfbcc9dc6fd8145be5da6.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/7b764f57d515b34ace4a5bf446334c42.jpg

twotone

14-11-2013, 17:15

Steve that's a bleeding work of art mate:cool:

Magna Audio

14-11-2013, 22:04

Cool that you like...
Yours is next up;)

Marco

15-11-2013, 07:50

Fab work (as usual), Steve! :clap:

Marco.

Marco

15-11-2013, 08:12

Oh yes I remember - Great day. Making the armboard - fitting and listening all in one longish day;)

It did sound superb so I have no worries on the 212D. It was the new kid on the block I was referring too.

Indeed the SPU wooden or other contruction headshell inc cart weigh about 30g. The FR64s headshell and Royal N cart weigh in at 32g.

Yup, it was a great day - very enjoyable watching the master at work! :)

With regards to the efficacy of the Ortofon TA-110 tonearm, in relation to its use with an SPU, I foresee no problems. I used an SPU quite happily in a Jelco SA-750D (as does Mike), with the Jelco heavy counterweight balance. Both arms are of similar mass. The TA-110 is also made by Jelco, but recently has been significantly improved in a number of areas, notably in terms of damping of the armtube. It also comes with a rather nice (very high quality) Ortofon tonearm cable.

Therefore, with the extra-mass ring in place, it should sing rather nicely with an SPU. I suspect that it won't be quite as good as an RS-212D, but if the latter is genuinely no longer available (which Mike will no doubt confirm soon) then, along with the Jelco SA-750, it's the only new tonearm option suitable for use with an SPU, which is widely available.

Marco.

twotone

16-11-2013, 13:38

Cool that you like...
Yours is next up;)

Thanks Steve, there's no rush mate, the tonearm is still en-route from Hong Kong but I expect it will be in sunny Glasgow by the end of the next week.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it will escape the RM customs gestapo:eyebrows:

Magna Audio

16-11-2013, 19:48

Yes, Fingers crossed on that one.

Ebony arrived. Armboard work to comment on Monday...
Should have it with you by the time the arm arrives;)

Thanks Steve, there's no rush mate, the tonearm is still en-route from Hong Kong but I expect it will be in sunny Glasgow by the end of the next week.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it will escape the RM customs gestapo:eyebrows:

twotone

21-11-2013, 23:39

Yes, Fingers crossed on that one.

Ebony arrived. Armboard work to comment on Monday...
Should have it with you by the time the arm arrives;)

Hi Steve, the arm has arrived and is in amazing condition however there are no screws or fixings to fix the arm to to the arm board, I'm hoping you have something suitable?

Kind regards

Tony

PS, the arm slipped past the RM gestapo:cool:

Magna Audio

22-11-2013, 15:46

Cool the arm made it:) It's a very nicely made arm indeed.

I remember using 3 M3 or M4 bolts on Robbie's.
I've PM's you regarding solutions.

Hi Steve, the arm has arrived and is in amazing condition however there are no screws or fixings to fix the arm to to the arm board, I'm hoping you have something suitable?

Kind regards

Tony

PS, the arm slipped past the RM gestapo:cool:

Magna Audio

25-11-2013, 17:21

Here is Tony's.

For a Mikro Seiki MA-202.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/6d8b8f86ceabd6117e880b67f479f8f3.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/a011f05e969a770db1b5d1a09ab2a4da.jpg

twotone

25-11-2013, 17:31

Steve I love you:wow::popcorn:

Marco

25-11-2013, 17:35

Superb! We expect a full (sound) report in Strokes of Genius, when you try it, Tony! :cool:

Marco.

Magna Audio

25-11-2013, 17:39

Steady on! :)

Steve I love you:wow::popcorn:

twotone

25-11-2013, 17:43

Superb! We expect a full (sound) report in Strokes of Genius, when you try it, Tony! :cool:

Marco.

Thanks Marco, will do.

BTW, Steve's communications have been fantastic, he's responded very quickly indeed to every stupid question that I've thrown at him:cool:

Marco

25-11-2013, 17:46

twotone

26-11-2013, 22:46

Indeed, that's what makes him a top bloke (along with the fact that he's, erm, 'not bad' working with wood)! :eyebrows:

Enjoy your armboard - I guarantee you that it will 'sound' as good as it looks!!

Marco.

Hi guys, the armboard arrived today, thanks Steve.

Absolutely wonderful job, beautiful peice of wood and workmanship.

Steve, with the best will in the world, there is no way that I would have been able to drill three 4mm holes in that armboard mate:D

I've worked in the building trade for over 35 years and have drilled into every conceivable material including granite and porcelaine tiles but that ebony wood is something else...

I can only imagine the tools you use to make these armboards, the drills and cutters must be super sharp and the machines must have very powerful motors indeed.

Tony.

BTW, the arm board is also a bleeding bargain:eek:

Magna Audio

27-11-2013, 17:27

Hi Tony,
Great. Glad you like it :cool:... What's the new arm sound like then???:)

It's an odd material, sort of hard and soft at the same time. Sharp tools yes - a must. It blunts them quickly as you say but not as bad as hard stainless steel - Machining that I really don't do...

Hi guys, the armboard arrived today, thanks Steve.

Absolutely wonderful job, beautiful peice of wood and workmanship.

Steve, with the best will in the world, there is no way that I would have been able to drill three 4mm holes in that armboard mate:D

I've worked in the building trade for over 35 years and have drilled into every conceivable material including granite and porcelaine tiles but that ebony wood is something else...

I can only imagine the tools you use to make these armboards, the drills and cutters must be super sharp and the machines must have very powerful motors indeed.

Tony.

BTW, the arm board is also a bleeding bargain:eek:

Magna Audio

27-11-2013, 17:32

Here's Ali Tait's Jelco spacer.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/e5105fee0812e17253ace7b610ae0e43.jpg

Magna Audio

27-11-2013, 17:35

Here is Loo's Luxman pd300 armboard. Rega fitting.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/4837a31d77478dfd886e3b9f8cfa4e6e.jpg

Ali Tait

27-11-2013, 18:22

Wahey! Looks great Steve.

loo

27-11-2013, 18:24

ooh Steve , that looks fantastic I cant wait to get it fitted
thanks for your workmanship
Paul

twotone

27-11-2013, 23:32

loo

28-11-2013, 00:05

Hi Steve, thanks.

Not got the arm installed yet:doh:I'm going to do it at the weekend so will post results then.

Tony
Tony how can you wait so long , you some sort of saint:eyebrows:
I will be mugging me postie at the sorting office to get mine fitted that bit quicker:lol:
nice arm choice BTW
Paul

twotone

28-11-2013, 08:25

Tony how can you wait so long , you some sort of saint:eyebrows:
I will be mugging me postie at the sorting office to get mine fitted that bit quicker:lol:
nice arm choice BTW
Paul

Hi Paul,thanks, it's taken about three weeks to a month to get to this point and I want to savour every moment:eek:

Truth be told mate, the stock arm and cart sounds fantastic at the moment and I'm loving just being able to stick on a record so pulling that set up apart to install the new arm is not something I want to rush into.

Obviously I have no idea how the new arm sounds but as a peice of engineering it really is beautifully made and is in near mint condition in fact the headshell has never been used and is brand new.

The armbase is a bit special too BTW:cool:

Tony

Ali Tait

28-11-2013, 19:26

Got my ebony spacer today, a perfect fit. Cheers Steve!

Magna Audio

29-11-2013, 00:48

:cool:

Got my ebony spacer today, a perfect fit. Cheers Steve!

loo

29-11-2013, 21:55

Luxman PD300 with a fantastic new Speedy Steve armboard , a perfect fit , perfect weight for the suspension , and wow does it sound good I wasnot expecting a sonic upgrade but its transformed the Lux the sound is so organic and natural and the depth ooh err sublime
http://i1308.photobucket.com/albums/s612/loonieboo1/d9731245-1a9d-4dc4-86fa-e790bce7e54f_zps824b3bbf.jpg (http://s1308.photobucket.com/user/loonieboo1/media/d9731245-1a9d-4dc4-86fa-e790bce7e54f_zps824b3bbf.jpg.html)http://i1308.photobucket.com/albums/s612/loonieboo1/77148bbe-130d-4792-a118-a61a32db417e_zps2aa482ac.jpg (http://s1308.photobucket.com/user/loonieboo1/media/77148bbe-130d-4792-a118-a61a32db417e_zps2aa482ac.jpg.html)http://i1308.photobucket.com/albums/s612/loonieboo1/460e50eb-7d76-4628-8626-226ce1eacdfd_zpsb6ebefdf.jpg (http://s1308.photobucket.com/user/loonieboo1/media/460e50eb-7d76-4628-8626-226ce1eacdfd_zpsb6ebefdf.jpg.html)
thanks Steve your a true craftsman
Paul

Ali Tait

29-11-2013, 22:00

Wow, what a pretty deck, very nice indeed.

loo

29-11-2013, 22:15

Cheers Ali, yeah and Steve's board is such a perfect fit and matches wonderfully with the speed control knob and pulley cover
Paul

Spectral Morn

29-11-2013, 22:20

Looks fab

Regards Neil

Ali Tait

29-11-2013, 23:31

What's the arm and cart?

Is it a DIY type arm? I've a vague memory of someone posting about something similar.

loo

29-11-2013, 23:38

What's the arm and cart?

Is it a DIY type arm? I've a vague memory of someone posting about something similar.
Ali its an Audiomods IV mine is a complete arm from Jeff but yes he does do a DIY kit for those skilled with a drill and things If I tried to drill an arm tube my fingers would end up perforated :lol:
the cart well that belongs in a different thread its an early sixties nude high output spu with its own built in step up transformer , the ultimate in high output moving coils:eyebrows:
Paul

Ali Tait

29-11-2013, 23:43

Nice! Love to hear an SPU some time.

Magna Audio

02-12-2013, 13:41

Great Loo. Glad to hear the sound is improved - that's very good feed back to file along with Marco, Martin, Rob etc
Excellent that your template was accurate enough for it to fit just fine too.

Regards,
Steve

Luxman PD300 with a fantastic new Speedy Steve armboard , a perfect fit , perfect weight for the suspension , and wow does it sound good I wasnot expecting a sonic upgrade but its transformed the Lux the sound is so organic and natural and the depth ooh err sublime
http://i1308.photobucket.com/albums/s612/loonieboo1/d9731245-1a9d-4dc4-86fa-e790bce7e54f_zps824b3bbf.jpg (http://s1308.photobucket.com/user/loonieboo1/media/d9731245-1a9d-4dc4-86fa-e790bce7e54f_zps824b3bbf.jpg.html)http://i1308.photobucket.com/albums/s612/loonieboo1/77148bbe-130d-4792-a118-a61a32db417e_zps2aa482ac.jpg (http://s1308.photobucket.com/user/loonieboo1/media/77148bbe-130d-4792-a118-a61a32db417e_zps2aa482ac.jpg.html)http://i1308.photobucket.com/albums/s612/loonieboo1/460e50eb-7d76-4628-8626-226ce1eacdfd_zpsb6ebefdf.jpg (http://s1308.photobucket.com/user/loonieboo1/media/460e50eb-7d76-4628-8626-226ce1eacdfd_zpsb6ebefdf.jpg.html)
thanks Steve your a true craftsman
Paul

twotone

02-12-2013, 23:48

Hi Steve, finally got the tonearm and armboard fitted over the weekend.

The arm board is a perfect fit and so too is the tonearm, I had a wee bit of a problem trying to get the arm lift out of the way of the armrest and just generally getting the arm to sit correctly relative to the platter but I managed that tonight.

Just got to fine tune the cart now, I fitted it quickly to hear the tonearm and set it up mainly by sight and pretty roughly.

The sound of the deck has transformed to something wonderful, it sounds like a different deck now, like a veil has been lifted.

The bass is astonishing, I've got musical bass now and there's seperation between individual instruments and the sound stage has opened right up.

I'll get some pictures up tomorrow.

I have to say though that in retrospect, I wish that I had sent the arm to you so that you could have installed it in the base and set it up properly.

I basically stumbled about getting the arm set up correctly, I was terrified that I would damage the cartridge at some point during the course of all of it.

BTW, stripping the old arm out of the deck sure ain't for the faint hearted:sofa:

Thanks again for all of your advice and help.

Marco

03-12-2013, 07:36

Luxman PD300 with a fantastic new Speedy Steve armboard , a perfect fit , perfect weight for the suspension , and wow does it sound good I wasnot expecting a sonic upgrade but its transformed the Lux the sound is so organic and natural and the depth ooh err sublime...

The sound of the deck has transformed to something wonderful, it sounds like a different deck now, like a veil has been lifted.

The bass is astonishing, I've got musical bass now and there's seperation between individual instruments and the sound stage has opened right up.

Nice one guys, I told you that installing an ebony armboard would have significant sonic benefits, as well as aesthetic ones! :exactly:

Unfortunately, most folk think that armboards are just something that are necessary to mount your tonearm on, and don't really consider their sonic impact. The reality is that the material an armboard is made from will have a fundamental influence on the performance of the tonearm fitted to it (and thus that of the overall T/T) - and ebony, in that respect, is a fantastic material for audio purposes!

Therefore, I'm not surprised that Paul and Tony have reported such profound sonic improvements with their T/Ts, after having ebony armboards fitted, as indeed I did when I done it. Quite simply, in some cases, fitting one of these armboards could provide as big (or even a bigger) improvement than fitting a new tonearm........... :trust:

So get yours now, folks, and release the latent sonic potential in your turntable!

Marco.

Oldpinkman

03-12-2013, 08:52

. Quite simply, in some cases, fitting one of these armboards could provide as big (or even a bigger) improvement than fitting a new tonearm........... :trust:

Marco.

That may depend on the arm in question. And the turntable - ebony does nothing for a PT. But clearly it works well in other situations. Certainly arm matching to armboard to turntable is important. But a bigger improvement than a new arm? - only if the new arm is nothing special. ;)

Oldpinkman

03-12-2013, 08:55

and ebony is a fantastic material for audio purposes!

Marco.

I know what you mean, and you are of course right in the context you use it. But it's a spectacular over-extension of a principle taken literally. Ebony platters? Ebony tonearms, cantilevers? Ebony turntable feet? You get my point ;)

MartinT

03-12-2013, 09:51

The Technics responds very well to ebony as an armboard. I suspect it's the better fit into the cast recess (I was never very happy with metal boards and the possibility of only a few points of contact around the circumference, despite the gasket), and the damping characteristics of the wood itself.

Marco

03-12-2013, 12:04

I know what you mean, and you are of course right in the context you use it. But it's a spectacular over-extension of a principle taken literally. Ebony platters? Ebony tonearms, cantilevers? Ebony turntable feet? You get my point ;)

Sure, and that's why I've now added "in that respect", in order that its use is qualified and for the sentence to now read as: "and, in that respect, ebony is a fantastic material for audio purposes!" I suspect that its resonance characteristics favour its use in certain audio applications - a fact which is borne out in user testimonies.

In that respect, ebony has also been used, with great success, as an armtube material on some rather exotic tonearms, which is where I got the idea from to use it to make armboards for various T/Ts (yes, another great idea from your leader :eyebrows:), with of course the expert help of Steve :)

That may depend on the arm in question. And the turntable - ebony does nothing for a PT. But clearly it works well in other situations. Certainly arm matching to armboard to turntable is important. But a bigger improvement than a new arm? - only if the new arm is nothing special...

Well, what I'm mainly getting at here is that the sonic effect of fitting an ebony armboard to some turntables could be rather dramatic, and may not be subtle, as perhaps was expected. Also, in some circumstances, the improvement could be greater than that achieved by changing tonearm, such as if one were merely upgrading within a manufacturer's product range to the next model up, as opposed to a fundamentally better arm from a different manufacturer.

The message here is therefore essentially this: expect BIG things to happen, sonically, when substituting a 'common-or-garden' aluminium armboard, on a Technics T/T, for one of Steve's ebony babies!!

:exactly:

Marco.

Magna Audio

03-12-2013, 16:38

Great feedback and discussion.

Well that's it!!! I want in on this action...

I'll have to make an Ebony board (4 sided polygon) for my SP-10 won't I;)
Eat my own dog food :):):)

We'll see if SP-10, slate plinth and ebony jel.

MartinT

03-12-2013, 17:15

Now that's the kind of experiment that might pay dividends. Go for it, and let us know how it sounds!

Magna Audio

03-12-2013, 17:47

Only snagg is I need 8.5" x 5" x 3/4" and that length is bigger than my faithful supplier can do. Don't want joins etc. Google to the rescue...

MikeMusic

04-12-2013, 09:44

Great feedback and discussion.

Well that's it!!! I want in on this action...

Me too when I'm sure what arm I'm going to have

twotone

04-12-2013, 10:36

Me too when I'm sure what arm I'm going to have

Photos of my armboard and new (old) tonearm here below.

Tony

http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?29446-Stock-arm-gone

Marco

04-12-2013, 17:19

Me too when I'm sure what arm I'm going to have

I never did hear, Mike, how you got on with Simon, regarding the RD-212D? :)

Marco.

MikeMusic

04-12-2013, 17:47

I never did hear, Mike, how you got on with Simon, regarding the RD-212D? :)

Marco.

I just resent ,y question and he replied right away. 1st one lost

Closest he has is a RS309D 12”
So looks like our friends in Japan for a 212D .........

Marco

04-12-2013, 21:53

Ah, okies - that's a shame... So are you going to order a 212D from Japan? If so, make sure you get one of Steve's ebony armboards to go with it :)

Marco.

MartinT

05-12-2013, 09:08

So looks like our friends in Japan for a 212D .........

Deffo use 2juki, he's friendly and gives great service.
Watch out for the duty + VAT :eek:

MikeMusic

05-12-2013, 09:19

Ah, okies - that's a shame... So are you going to order a 212D from Japan? If so, make sure you get one of Steve's ebony armboards to go with it :)

Marco.
Looks like the plan.
Wonderful that Steve is so close !

MikeMusic

05-12-2013, 09:19

Deffo use 2juki, he's friendly and gives great service.
Watch out for the duty + VAT :eek:

Yeh. Been there with the MN Bearing, £80 I think that was :(

Marco

05-12-2013, 10:04

Mike, have you thought about getting one of the Micro Seiki arms, as used by RobbieGong (and I think also Tony), shown here: http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?29472-The-tech-gallery

I reckon it's probably 80-90% as good as a 212D, at a fraction of the price... It'll certainly suit the Techy very well and should take an SPU (although you may need Steve to make you a heavier counterweight balance).

Marco.

MikeMusic

05-12-2013, 10:52

loo

05-12-2013, 11:06

The message here is therefore essentially this: expect BIG things to happen, sonically, when substituting a 'common-or-garden' aluminium armboard, on a Technics T/T, for one of Steve's ebony babies!!

:exactly:
Marco.
I would also add Luxman decks with the original aluminium armboard ,as the only thing I changed was the armboard to Steves and I found the sound to be instantly more gratifying ,I would suspect that lots of all metal turntables may be effected in a similar way , the Orbe and Gyro come to mind having had experience of both:)
thanks again Steve
Paul

Marco

05-12-2013, 11:25

Not on my radar at all. Thanks Marco.
Fraction of the price sounds nice :)
How does it compare to my Jelco SA-750D ?

I haven't done the comparison, but my gut feeling says (and it's usually fairly reliable) that it should be better than the Jelco. Micro Seiki certainly have a fine reputation. The arms are cheap enough to take a punt on, I reckon, and could be moved on fairly easily if not suitable. Just Google for 'Micro Seiki MA 202' :)

This is the sort of thing you would need, if you were using the arm with an SPU (short of getting Steve to make you a complete heavier c/w) : http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Micro-Seiki-MA-202-Tonearm-sub-weight-for-Heavy-Cartridge-/321249873269?pt=US_Record_Players_Home_Turntables&hash=item4acbfc0d75

Marco.

Marco

05-12-2013, 11:31

I would also add Luxman decks with the original aluminium armboard ,as the only thing I changed was the armboard to Steves and I found the sound to be instantly more gratifying ,I would suspect that lots of all metal turntables may be effected in a similar way , the Orbe and Gyro come to mind having had experience of both:)
thanks again Steve
Paul

Nice one, Paul.

I do agree, certainly in terms of the Technics, where I find that metal armboards impart a rather hard, clinical 'a-musical' quality, which is totally cured by the addition of an ebony armboard. The latter succeeds in bringing out all the tone and texture (and nature 'colour') in music, providing that the partnering arm and cartridge are capable of delivering such.

Marco.

loo

05-12-2013, 11:53

Nice one, Paul.

I do agree, certainly in terms of the Technics, where I find that metal armboards impart a rather hard, clinical 'a-musical' quality, which is totally cured by the addition of an ebony armboard. The latter succeeds in bringing out all the tone and texture (and nature 'colour') in music, providing that the partnering arm and cartridge are capable of delivering such.

Marco.

Yep well put Marco that is exactly how its transformed the Lux in just the same way ,
Paul

Magna Audio

05-12-2013, 16:41

Indeedy. I do wonder what it will do for my slate set up. Suck and see...

I've sourced a special 'big' bit of Ebony and its coming from Portugal!
Hope to get it by next week and will fit it in around the other jobs:)

twotone

05-12-2013, 23:09

I haven't done the comparison, but my gut feeling says (and it's usually fairly reliable) that it should be better than the Jelco. Micro Seiki certainly have a fine reputation. The arms are cheap enough to take a punt on, I reckon, and could be moved on fairly easily if not suitable. Just Google for 'Micro Seiki MA 202' :)

This is the sort of thing you would need, if you were using the arm with an SPU (short of getting Steve to make you a complete heavier c/w) : http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Micro-Seiki-MA-202-Tonearm-sub-weight-for-Heavy-Cartridge-/321249873269?pt=US_Record_Players_Home_Turntables&hash=item4acbfc0d75

Marco.

I got one of those with my arm from the same seller.

Tony

MikeMusic

06-12-2013, 14:56

I haven't done the comparison, but my gut feeling says (and it's usually fairly reliable) that it should be better than the Jelco. Micro Seiki certainly have a fine reputation. The arms are cheap enough to take a punt on, I reckon, and could be moved on fairly easily if not suitable. Just Google for 'Micro Seiki MA 202' :)

This is the sort of thing you would need, if you were using the arm with an SPU (short of getting Steve to make you a complete heavier c/w) : http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Micro-Seiki-MA-202-Tonearm-sub-weight-for-Heavy-Cartridge-/321249873269?pt=US_Record_Players_Home_Turntables&hash=item4acbfc0d75

Marco.

Micro Seiki seems very rare. Looks like I would have to wait a while for one and then be super careful as to condition. Price seems very nice 2nd hand on Ebay, mostly abroad too so another risk
Tried looking here to see if you did a direct RS-212D comparison to Jelco 750
Can you point me in that direction or tell me how the two compared ?

Magna Audio

06-12-2013, 18:14

I got my FR64s all the way form Taiwan - was a smooth deal, no problems.

Here is a work in progress board for SL-1210 but this one is in customer supplied Australian hardwood.
Pretty heavy/dense and close grained. Should polish up well.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/706c36e39bfe1c8988cc9c3ac576eb1b.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/9aca7fc53bc6f9e452c0dd5290a5a976.jpg

Taken on my phone so pretty poor quality.

There's a slight fissure in one part but that will be taken care of by the moon shaped platter cutout;)

I'll take some proper pics on deck when finished.

BTW, I've bought myself a new (secondhand) Warco precision super mini metal lathe - picking it up tomorrow. Counterweights & pulleys etc will be much easier to make with this baby.

To be continued...

Magna Audio

08-12-2013, 14:33

It has arrived.
Nice piece of wood. Now to get time to craft myself a board / xmas present to me and my trusty SP-10 / FR64s :)

Magna Audio

10-12-2013, 15:44

Update to the Australian hardwood board that was in progress above.
This one is for Bernie / AoS Canetoad.

On my new lathe whilst polishing

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/f634fd3b4a1078fe8d2206c349b4bad5.jpg

Oh yeah, this lathe spins up to 2500rpm and that really gets a shine on!

On test mule deck (bit scabbly but it never leaves the workshop;)). Bolts shown are my own test ones - cap headed Stainless will probably be bolts of choice.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/8cb78dfb712fe42b92fa34c4f49ebc3f.jpg

Jelco arm hole and mounting holes drilled.

Armboard ready for shipping once it has final waxing / polish.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/2249092b115c0bf03c19c4ab97e0f326.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/751c075999b7370303e1bc21d1359d71.jpg

Magna Audio

12-12-2013, 19:01

Here's a project of Tonearm board / arm rewire and fettle I've just done.

Replacing a thin piece of aluminium on a Cranfield Rock deck.
I also rewired the Alphason HR100s arm with Litz silver tonearm wire, fitted a Cardas 5 pin plug (to enable future cable upgrades), and fitted a new tonearm cable he'd bought - all providing quite an upgrade I trust.

All mounted up on 6mm thick ebony.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/003f452df4f23c414bc918c90d09ef77.jpg

(I decided a block looked a bit boring so put the bevelled edge on to spice it up a bit)

(I'd run out of M5 black domed or caphead bolts to the ones shown are just for test mounting)

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/003f452df4f23c414bc918c90d09ef77.jpg

Here's the old somewhat abused plate that the ebony replaced.

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4508.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4508.jpg.html)

The arm re-wire
1st to drill the arm base and tapp it to receive the Cardas 5 pin tonearm cable plug.

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4470.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4470.jpg.html)
http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4471.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4471.jpg.html)

Silver Litz wire fitted

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4473.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4473.jpg.html)

Cardas plug located

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4472.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4472.jpg.html)

Buzz tested and colour coded, ready to go.

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4485.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4485.jpg.html)

I also had to re-thread the bias weight micro fishing line too;)

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4487.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4487.jpg.html)

Be interesting to hear what difference all these changes make.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/d748050a82b94c114ca91db0bbdbfe61.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/8c761457e2227a4043aa3372217199f9.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/fb2dd586f626b7a93dba357937598203.jpg

MartinT

13-12-2013, 07:23

It's a brave thing to take to an Alphason arm like that. Excellent work, Steve!

Mind you, that looks dangerously like a Jelco Neglex tonearm cable. Avoid!

Magna Audio

13-12-2013, 08:06

Yes it is a jelco cable:( Stop gap I understand! I did warn to read views here first...

I use my own pure silver concoction from arm to SUT that I like.silver

Magna Audio

15-12-2013, 13:31

Here's the ebony one I promised myself for my SP-10. It had a somewhat multi-drilled gunmetal armboard before as I had a SME 12" V on it first and then a hole for my FR64s. Still sounded pretty good and lots a Gunmetal to go around:)
Now is ebony or gunmetal interacts better with this arm and slate is the question.

Had to make one to find out.

Hard to photograph as ever...

After listening - it does sound good!

After yet more listening; It's brought out a subtle bass underpinned rhythm, more solid and driving. Not lost any of the mid range and upper range delight.
I am really happy with - it's a keeper.

Weird this TT lark how things interact.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/300fa01431ab606dc675804740bee526.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/0814bf678b18539803c143fdccfd20ff.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171031/3038ea22fb367ada2153abaabe169b69.jpg

loo

15-12-2013, 13:51

Just goes to show Steve , the customer is always right :)
Glad your enjoying the fruits of your labour and it looks mighty fine too
That FR 64 Looks mighty , such a pretty thing in silver you don't see so many silver ones
Cheers Paul

Magna Audio

15-12-2013, 15:50

Yes indeed:)

The black ones are FR64x's. They are suitable for medium to high compliance carts. For something like a SPU or IO's etc you want the 64s...
Perhaps the s stands for solid:)

Magna Audio

07-02-2014, 15:58

Here's the latest for Mike (CableMaker1) from NY USA

For the lovely Ortofon AS-212S

Board and fitting kit are on the way.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/fc3ddcd28c524ef2227073928ea996f3.jpg

Magna Audio

24-02-2014, 21:53

This time a tonearm board for Jazzbones' Techi but in a different wood than ebony;

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/ef750d6fc2103cb48e0e9e47e5475f96.jpg

Can you guess what it is?

Rough face off and recessed

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/8854349446af66d592bb965debf954db.jpg

Dished

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/1a58c2b65c8593bb2e86e1800258b865.jpg

Fitted out for Linn arms

(in flash it looks like this - its not that dark)

Still final rubbing down and polishing to go.

As for the wood. It's African Blackwood. Slightly more dense than Ebony and harder. Nice grain to it.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/4e0d36b0e5798f18a917bcf16f8ee4c8.jpg

RobbieGong

24-02-2014, 22:14

Simply gorgeous Steve !!

Magna Audio

25-02-2014, 17:14

Simply gorgeous Steve !!

:)

I think it is even better now its finished and suitably polished.

Beautiful grain and markings to this African Blackwood. Hope Ron (Jazzbones) likes it, and it sounds as good as it looks.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/6aedf180ceaab6a5741d5ad9eec36390.jpg

JazzBones

25-02-2014, 18:17

Hi Steve, absolutely a beauty and can't wait to have it set up and in action. I'm keeping the ebony board for my Jelco750D as a back arm. The African one is for my Audio Origami modified Linn Ekos arm. Although the Linn and Jelco share the same mounting pattern the stylus overhang differs by approx 3mm sufficient for the Linn never really being at its best in my ebony board. The grain of the wood is artwork in itself by nature worked on by Speedy Steve. Bravo Maestro :champagne:

Marco

25-02-2014, 18:39

Looks fab, Ronaldo - hope you enjoy it. Top work from Steve, as usual! :clap:

Marco.

Magna Audio

01-03-2014, 20:46

Thanks chaps. More items:)

Here's a pair bound for Mike of N.Y USA. Great taste in arms;)

Ortofon AS-212s armbase mounted on ebony turned earlier.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/dd29d6982ef0a013530308cd2f112225.jpg

Ortofon RS-212D mounted on African Blackwood armboard I just turned. Antiseptic smell when working. It is indeed antiseptic and disinfectant - hence being used for clarinets, oboes, bassoons etc - to disinfect spittle.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/d7b13ab1e9420c1e66011572c9d36aad.jpg

The pair side by side, to compare African Blackwood on the left, Ebony on the right. As can be seen the blackest area of the African blackwood are very black, but there are more lighter grains and flows than ebony - interestings.

The African blackwood is more dense and harder by a bit. Tougher to sand down for polishing.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/9d51735e14674f3792e2b2870096c73d.jpg

CableMaker1

04-03-2014, 02:17

Steve -

the he armboards look great. I can't wait to get them!!!!

thanks for all your efforts you put into them!

Mike

MikeMusic

04-03-2014, 12:01

Hey Steve, seen these ?

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=251466340162&ssPageName=ADME:B:SS:GB:3160

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=201046645650&ssPageName=ADME:B:SS:GB:3160

MartinT

04-03-2014, 12:59

I had one of those for my Dynavector, Mike. Steve's ebony armboard sounds a lot better.

MikeMusic

04-03-2014, 13:22

I'm working on the assumption that's Steve's are better, with the same material maybe even cheaper

Marco

05-03-2014, 07:05

Mike, how dare you sully Steve's thread by advertising products from that twat (first link)! ;)

Marco.

MikeMusic

05-03-2014, 08:02

Mike, how dare you sully Steve's thread by advertising products from that twat (first link)! ;)

Marco.

Hopefully an opportunity for our Steve !

Magna Audio

05-03-2014, 16:50

:)

Perhaps it's like Cadbury's, the extra ingredients and care make the difference.
Thickness, single piece construction and materials in this case.
Natural exotic hardwoods like Ebony & African Blackwood.

Plus I custom make em for any arm that will fit length wise, not just SME;)

CableMaker1

05-03-2014, 21:58

Mike, how dare you sully Steve's thread by advertising products from that twat (first link)! ;)

Marco.

At first, I thought Marco was talking to me. :eek: Glad I checked in to see what all the chatter is about....

Cant wait to get the armboards from Speedy Steve so that I can compete with Marcos TT!!! :D

MikeMusic

06-03-2014, 10:18

Magna Audio

06-03-2014, 18:00

Worth putting that on Ebay ?

I don't get your drift.

MikeMusic

06-03-2014, 20:56

I don't get your drift.
Put your services on Ebay

Magna Audio

06-03-2014, 22:26

Hmm, I get you.
Possibly. Suppose I'd reach more people - Can't see DJ'ers going ebony though:). Then there's the fees etc...

MikeMusic

07-03-2014, 08:00

Hmm, I get you.
Possibly. Suppose I'd reach more people - Can't see DJ'ers going ebony though:). Then there's the fees etc...

I think they are both looking for hifi punters.
The fees put me off, but you can add that in and look at "Classified", assuming it still exists
Could you put in different prices in different materials ?

Magna Audio

14-03-2014, 15:37

On to counterweights.

I am now able to offer lovely 303 stainless steel counterweights.

Here's a 135g one I've just made for Richard (Gromit)

Please contact me by PM or the web link below if you require counterweights, tonearm boards.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/39bd0ded0af2c1e430f1d04d1c947e12.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/bf9e633fc9c46c6c6797ab5ca8831717.jpg

Magna Audio

04-04-2014, 14:52

Magna Audio

07-04-2014, 11:09

Now the 2nd one is done

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/72bceed1471307745c4bfbf566229d7d.jpg

and here is the actual deck they will go on (there's an FR64s in there:) )

Will be in the post today.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/00c6c18946d361d9b331eb05e9d0e878.jpg

Magna Audio

08-04-2014, 19:15

The latest African Blackwood armboard for Shuggies improved armbase. This one is for an Ortofon AS-212s.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/44e297f7cfc90737b40981c93735b94b.jpg

Spectral Morn

08-04-2014, 19:44

Here's a slightly different one; for a Fidelity Research FR64s with the superb adjustable on the fly VTA armbase.
Made from solid brass, 20mm thick and 170mm long. 2.3Kgs of brass!

This is the first of two I am making.

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4667.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4667.jpg.html)

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4665.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_4665.jpg.html)

Now to finish the 2nd one:)

Perhaps destined for a deck like this?

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/GrahamPhantom.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/GrahamPhantom.jpg.html)

Beautiful work.

Regards Neil

Magna Audio

11-04-2014, 06:54

Thanks Neil.
They are for Fordy (Carl). They have to make their way, way overseas but Carl says he will take some pics of them once installed on that amazing deck,but it will take a while.

Magna Audio

16-04-2014, 20:46

Here are a couple of different height arm raisers in Ebony for a PL-71 arm.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/e2308db5f23157db608141f66dc8983d.jpg

Magna Audio

07-05-2014, 11:37

Latest is a bespoke armboard in ebony for SME arm mounting

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/cb3a2ff421295ddb53063129b3676dfc.jpg

I also have an Ebony armboard for an FR64x, one in African Blackwood for a Jelco and a special plinth mod / extra armboard pod mount on the go - more on these later.

I'm happy to discuss any project requirements or ideas you might have.

Tarzan

08-05-2014, 09:49

Latest is a bespoke armboard in ebony for SME arm mounting

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Ritchie%20mid%20bass/IMG_4756.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Ritchie%20mid%20bass/IMG_4756.jpg.html)

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Ritchie%20mid%20bass/IMG_4758.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Ritchie%20mid%20bass/IMG_4758.jpg.html)

I also have an Ebony armboard for an FR64x, one in African Blackwood for a Jelco and a special plinth mod / extra armboard pod mount on the go - more on these later.

I'm happy to discuss any project requirements or ideas you might have.

Fantastic work Steve.:clapclapclap:

Magna Audio

19-05-2014, 14:38

Here's an ebony one done for Mike inc fitting his FR64 arm

He is convinced black sound best:) So dark ebony finish was in order;)

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/edbe65c3f96763231517881cfdb46058.jpg

MikeMusic

19-05-2014, 14:50

100% fact that black sounds best !
:)

I'm hoping to construct a stealth hifi so there will be true blind listening and testing

Lovely work and sounds fabulous.

MartinT

19-05-2014, 16:05

It's the improvised cardboard 'shutters' over the blue LEDs that spoil the pro look LOL!

MikeMusic

19-05-2014, 16:50

It's the improvised cardboard 'shutters' over the blue LEDs that spoil the pro look LOL!

They are 'pro' bits of card tho'
:)

Magna Audio

02-06-2014, 14:29

Here's an African Blackwood armboard fitted with the uprated Jelco arm collar.
This one has been stained to be dark similar to Ebony. Matching black domed capheaded bolts and a shortened allen key to enable arm fitting.

You may wonder the difference between African Blackwood and Ebony. Both are hard and dense. African Blackwood is not quite as dark in natural state. It is denser and harder with a tighter / almost no grain its so dense. Due to this it machines and drills very well indeed.

I can't say what acoustic difference there is between them though, as I've never had the opportunity to listen to them back to back on identical equipment.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/107c99a53aacb9cb463bd03c4b49bcd2.jpg

Here it is mounted (to ensure perfect fitting) on my scruffy test SL-1200 deck.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/61d9189bcfd57cd9613e9473dce36933.jpg

.mus

02-06-2014, 15:44

Here's an African Blackwood armboard fitted with the uprated Jelco arm collar.
This one has been stained to be dark similar to Ebony. Matching black domed capheaded bolts and a shortened allen key to enable arm fitting.

You may wonder the difference between African Blackwood and Ebony. Both are hard and dense. African Blackwood is not quite as dark in natural state. It is denser and harder with a tighter / almost no grain its so dense. Due to this it machines and drills very well indeed.

I can't say what acoustic difference there is between them though, as I've never had the opportunity to listen to them back to back on identical equipment.

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5202.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5202.jpg.html)

Here it is mounted (to ensure perfect fitting) on my scruffy test SL-1200 deck.

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5194.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5194.jpg.html)

:D

Magna Audio

04-06-2014, 11:48

Here is another Jelco one bound for New Zealand this time.

Darkened African Blackwood.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/4e48e0dccfe877af72ffe394454bd4e9.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/e400decdf4a4cb75c1295ee3ac151c6d.jpg

Magna Audio

22-06-2014, 14:17

Here is a set of weights (heavier antiskate), lateral and custom mass counterweight for the mighty Fidelity Research FR64s tonearm.
Made in 303 grade stainless with semi polished finish to match the arm.

I used the same sized grub screw / hex key sizes as the originals use.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/4b420c847383f3033bb5855304d271f5.jpg

Also a couple of Tonearm mounts - one for the Thorens TD-124 deck in Ebony.

A bespoke tonearm pod for an Audio Technica 12" arm from an African Blackwood block that fits to the rear of the plinth.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/55aa3556d6ec10092b8fcb1714621dd4.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/a1be7b756a387b85c3b946bd08efa815.jpg

Magna Audio

02-07-2014, 11:54

An ebony tonearm board. Bound for Italy for a Technics SL-1210 deck. Drilled for a Audiomods (Rega converted) arm.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/c7280dd2e63e5b605f29b793ffcf31b4.jpg

Magna Audio

07-08-2014, 17:44

Here are a couple of projects for Rexton

Armboard for SL-1210 with SME V fitting.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/3c628465de0aadeef05187db2ea330b2.jpg

A counter weight in 303 Stainless steel specified for an SME 3012 tonearm. The original weight was too light for the intended cartridge / headshell and was nearly off the back of the arm stub. This baby will balance things nicely.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/ff36a022ac6a304d5ce2e95a95a077ab.jpg

anthonyTD

07-08-2014, 17:55

Cracking job there Steve :)
A...

Wakefield Turntables

07-08-2014, 19:42

Here are a couple of projects for Rexton

Armboard for SL-1210 with SME V fitting.

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5352.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5352.jpg.html)

A counter weight in 303 Stainless steel specified for an SME 3012 tonearm. The original weight was too light for the intended cartridge / headshell and was nearly off the back of the arm stub. This baby will balance things nicely.

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5353.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5353.jpg.html)

WOW! Cant wait to try these babies and you need to update your sig, that SPU is coming to Wakefield dude!

Marco

07-08-2014, 19:52

Wakefield Turntables

07-08-2014, 20:05

Nice one, Steve - fab work as usual! And congrats, Andy! :)

Trust me, you won't regret going for an ebony armboard. Prepare for some long nights ahead rediscovering your record collection, as it'll make your Techy sound more musically addictive than ever!! ;)

Marco.

:lolsign: here's hoping so! I bought the custom counter weight as an extension to my own Denon 103 experiments and also research into Ortofon SPU's. :D

Magna Audio

23-08-2014, 11:29

Here is a finished SME3012 extra heavy counterweight including drillings and grubscrew for slider bar for the fine balance weight.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/73ecf29db6c503232ced4c08bb689159.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/4be22abefd44398524cabeb646a72735.jpg

Magna Audio

07-10-2014, 13:54

Here's an ebony armboard for another very nice TD-124 / Audio Technica arm, this time a 9.5" one!
Arm hole and rest drillings, and I fitted the arm / armboard too.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/b1e28f2c4d82271db79c61c0684f4186.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/3f6c27fd04a725a5fc6c3e8ff36bae0e.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171030/aedf7a684d779d2806fa604768e5a10f.jpg

Mr Kipling

07-10-2014, 15:25

Hi. Can I ask what sort of price would a sheet ebony the size of a 150 top plate cost?

Marco

07-10-2014, 15:32

Very nice, Steve! Whose T/T is it? I’ve always loved those AT broadcast arms (should work a treat with a 103, too) :)

Marco.

Spectral Morn

07-10-2014, 15:40

Here's an ebony armboard for another very nice TD-124 / Audio Technica arm, this time a 9.5" one!
Arm hole and rest drillings, and I fitted the arm / armboard too.

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5386.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5386.jpg.html)

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5383.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5383.jpg.html)

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5384.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/IMG_5384.jpg.html)

Beautiful.

A few years ago I had the opportunity to buy one of these and not really understanding the market value I offered too little and it was sold to someone else, a collector who will never use it, just look at it. The annoying thing is I would have gone to the price he bought it for but I wasn't given the opportunity.

Someday another one will come my way - I hope.

Regards Neil

Marco

07-10-2014, 15:56

A few years ago I had the opportunity to buy one of these and not really understanding the market value I offered too little and it was sold to someone else, a collector who will never use it, just look at it. The annoying thing is I would have gone to the price he bought it for but I wasn't given the opportunity.

Someday another one will come my way - I hope.

Are you talking about the arm, T/T or both? ;)

Marco.

Magna Audio

07-10-2014, 17:49

Very nice, Steve! Whose T/T is it? I’ve always loved those AT broadcast arms (should work a treat with a 103, too) :)

Marco.

It belongs to a chap whose on Lenco Heaven by the name of Richard. I don't know his Lenco Heaven userid.

Marco

07-10-2014, 17:55

Cool. Tell him he’s got great taste in tonearms and T/Ts, as well as arm boards! :eyebrows: ;)

Marco.

Spectral Morn

07-10-2014, 18:05

Are you talking about the arm, T/T or both? ;)

Marco.

The turntable Marco, it was a 124 mk2, with schopper plinth.

Regards Neil

Marco

07-10-2014, 18:08

Ah - alles klar… Trust me, Neil, the arm’s not too shabby either! :)

Marco.

Barry

07-10-2014, 19:19

Very nice, Steve! Whose T/T is it? I’ve always loved those AT broadcast arms (should work a treat with a 103, too) :)

Marco.

Then check out the ATP 12 and the AT 1503 Mk. III arms.

Steve - how much do you charge for such an arm board for a Thorens 124?

Marco

07-10-2014, 19:28

Then check out the ATP 12 and the AT 1503 Mk. III arms.

Will do. AT arms deserve much wider recognition, as they’re total quality.

Steve - how much do you charge for such an arm board for a Thorens 124?

Treat yourself, Barry. Steve’s workmanship and service is second to none! :)

Marco.

Magna Audio

14-10-2014, 14:52

Here's a spanking new extra mass counterweight for a Techi arm - will be on a journey all the way to New Zealand:)

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/c9b03404224c63b65649a1d439acc283.jpg

at the requested mass

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/184cd43bc8c4b6a33de604b363c50593.jpg

Magna Audio

23-10-2014, 14:38

I have just turned the counterweight in Stainless Steel to match, and also fitted a Cardas 5 pin tonearm cable plug and plug guide made of turned nylon.

Here's how it looks on the 12" arm

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/ce8eaa71041f5bc6ed667b12379f4d50.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/051ffaba69de75dab97f641977c751f7.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/1de50f3bdc27d5bb2d8e389e4d4e5910.jpg

Next up, I've made 3 bespoke counterweights.
A 45g, a 65g and a 85g one - all together 195g - this will give a wide range of headshell / cart fitting possibilities.
Fitted with 2 M4 grub screws for securing.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/09800d1aa389b0a05829c69477ff8ec2.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/901139a539bc1ee5e64cfead99686da7.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/20c631dff90f42230f7b0cfdfb903e72.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/4dfbba3b648b0d933808648ff135ae52.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/105c0b88714a59bfe4a5f168e11fae95.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/0e50861f3db1a25e531e0e534a00a7ca.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/7985046d33c896884a606c44c75a2c2e.jpg

Magna Audio

13-11-2014, 08:36

Here are a few of the latest creations I've made for customers near and far.

An Ebony tonearm board for the lovely Ortofon RS-212D tonearm. This one will be fitted to an SL-1210 with aftermarket bearing, platter and plate.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/8f40e624803178b9583c14522121d1ea.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/354584b4a23481c191fd90a6174ed9ba.jpg

An Ebony tonearm board for Garrard 301

A heavy counterweight and ingenious lateral damping weights in Stainless steel for the RB300 tonearm (search for - twl strange tonearm tweak).
These were for an enthusiast in New Zealand.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/f704ec9157d6511723a8b87dc0599dab.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/689798d00ffa2dd59d7b80f007e2f339.jpg

Test pieces

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/3c4ff72f2a5af438ff53ca0a1cd1e5fe.jpg

The pieces I machined to fit perfectly without a retention clip.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/a904bb0ea0bab0eb07d52d351d31bfbb.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/a58d1d949b4b6c07e950fcfc961d9c13.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/ac4110c7152ee83b8f3b7c4dd6457f6b.jpg

Just drop me a line if you require some machining, an armboard or other creations.

Magna Audio

28-11-2014, 15:05

Here's a Ebony armboard for a AR ES-1 Turntable.

Made to suit Rega spindle to pivot but with the larger hole required for the Mitchell VTA adjuster adapter.

The dishing is to allow the arm to sit low enough (some height is taken by the Mitchell VTA screw) and large enough to allow fingers in to adjust.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/cccd29679af687545eadd3dad1d9aa52.jpg

Made from a card template the customer sent me - note the proper Rega 222mm line and the position of the hole in the orginal armboard.
The difference could be taken up by the headshell slots but it must have compromised optimal geometry. The Ebony board should be spot on.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/3319fad737384798b253a670eed20a9f.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/077f9e1500a27d27899af95424d4f2cb.jpg

Here it is mounted on the customers lovely deck

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/46007119b8528521ae02fd98c8e2db18.jpg

CableMaker1

28-11-2014, 19:00

For any of you who do not know, or are new here, I ordered a couple of armboards from Speedy Steve for my turntables in the USA. I purchased one armboard for the Ortofon RS-212D and another for AS-212S for my Technics SL-1200 MK 2's that I have in ebony colour. Speedy Steve does excellent work.

Magna Audio

30-11-2014, 07:55

Thanks Mike,
I trust the armboards are doing the business.

Magna Audio

08-12-2014, 17:25

Here's one for montesquieu, an add-on to increase the mass of a Audio Note counter weight.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/5230be4b74730ea9db1cf52132970e9b.jpg

montesquieu

20-12-2014, 19:02

Here's one for montesquieu, an add-on to increase the mass of a Audio Note counter weight.

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Counterweight/WP_20141208_001.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Counterweight/WP_20141208_001.jpg.html)

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Counterweight/WP_20141208_002.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Counterweight/WP_20141208_002.jpg.html)

Just to say I'm over the moon with the job Steve did on this. Retail from audio note for a heavy counterweight for this arm is £200. Anyway Steve's work this is fantastic. Looks (and sounds) great.

Magna Audio

22-12-2014, 16:44

Thanks Tom:)

Here are a couple of projects I've recently done.

A custom counter weight for a Fidelity Research FR24. There were 2 weights with the arm but even with both there was not enough mass to balance the FR headshell and AT cart.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/ced0fe01d124ab423f544c0c650da995.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/47bfab4e686479b694c5ad3ea8fb05c9.jpg

I also set up the VTA, VTF, Cartridge alignment, arm lift height and the adjusted the Lenco spindle speed to 33 1/3 rpm.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/d5a20ef776a887f6381af6b95b51e8fa.jpg

The project was checked by having a good listen to make sure all was working properly and demo'd it too.

Here's one for the NJ USA. A counterweight for a Denon DP 59L turntable. Large 21.1mm arm stub. Made for tolerance fit

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/2dcea59a3e24a45d73cfe6e3a893dc90.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/3eeb9305a88845d1ee679b06537a64f1.jpg

Magna Audio

01-01-2015, 20:23

I was approached to make the 3 arm balancing counter weights, anti-skate weight and lateral weight for a Dynavector DV-505 arm, needed to complete the arm, as these had gone missing.

These were made to original weight specification.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/b3fefc316d9db3a52fcad212f86adc4e.jpg

and the lateral weight

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/f2750f24a4a7d0b164d36333c38dbce2.jpg

Sillver79

24-02-2015, 22:52

hello Steve,

did you ever get a request for the Sansui SR-929 lateral weight with the post?
thank you

Magna Audio

27-02-2015, 16:19

hello Steve,

did you ever get a request for the Sansui SR-929 lateral weight with the post?
thank you

Hi,
I did and I did reply to it. Perhaps email trouble somewhere along the line. Sorry for that.
I will dig out my reply and send via PM.

Best regards,
Steve

Magna Audio

13-03-2015, 16:38

Here's an Ebony armboard bound for a SL-1210. Drilled for a Jelco SA750D tonearm and provisioned with extra deep mounting surface for the 'Shuggie' upgrade Jelco armbase.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/07f2ddb7827d41edb9e4809014fdbd98.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/1b4ee0d14e844c2a02d0b2826364675f.jpg

cuddles

17-03-2015, 11:53

Beautifully made and sounding great. Bass is noticeably more tuneful and vocals never sounded better in my system- ssssibilance is now a thing of the past. Highly recommended ;)

RobbieGong

17-03-2015, 12:49

Beautifully made and sounding great. Bass is noticeably more tuneful and vocals never sounded better in my system- ssssibilance is now a thing of the past. Highly recommended ;)

Yes, The Ebony armboard is just excellent !!

Magna Audio

08-04-2015, 09:34

Thanks Robbie.

Here is an update to the armboard / pod I made for a customer a while back.

The original armboard for the lead filled stand alone arm pod I supplied was for a Fidelity Research FR64s arm.
It had to be shallow as the arm is quite high and there was not a lot of height overall to play with.

The Schick 12" arm is much lower so a thicker solid ebony armboard could be fitted.

Here is the base and board

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/ace1d707479b69b4a5ed6a26145f08fb.jpg

Test mounted on the pod ready to go.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/de63da261641562ddc9f8ba68221e80b.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/54a0e9253f90c8bb1d2437c4b7692b24.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/954ee3a8cd9e10012d3c344e5d25b33a.jpg

Magna Audio

11-04-2015, 16:06

Here's a little job for germbox

He was looking to balance a DL103 and heavy AT headshell and also needed spacers to get the VTA right.
Full thread here
http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?37538-SL1210M5G-and-DL103R-counterweight-Headshell-problems&highlight=spacer

I made him a 142g Stainless steel counterweight and headshell to cartridge spacers in ebony at 3.5mm and 4.5mm thick.
In the Post to the USA.

Be interesting to hear how they get on.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/64e1f1ca36eeece3bd595d4cb6930dc1.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/f59beeacdbb5436f190d4a2cbf4f453d.jpg

Marco

11-04-2015, 21:34

Indeed, Steve, and I suspect that they'll work superbly! I'm sure that Freddy will let us know :)

Btw, I think you should make a major point of promoting those little ebony spacers, as they often sell for silly prices on ebay, and are useful to lots of folks seeking to obtain more VTA flexibility. Far better too, sonically, than using a thicker T/T mat to make up the same adjustment difference!! :exactly:

Marco.

ChrisKemp

12-04-2015, 22:23

+1 I think ebony spacers, wooden headshell and ebony armboard for my future upgrade:)

Magna Audio

24-04-2015, 08:59

Thanks guys.
I have lots of nice wood for spacers and armboards:)

Here's the latest one

An Ebony armboard for a Clearaudio Performance SE deck.

A recessed top board to fit in the Clearaudio armboard hole, with SME fitting.
A sandwich arrangement to clamp the board in place, sandwiching the plinth.

The lower clamping ring is C shaped to allow the large right angled arm plug used to clear even on a low arm setting.

It's off to Mexico with this one.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/676bacee7306e360249185c23759abc8.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/9cb4316043df28b5e37ea07fb6b99f70.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/8740730b182df1b799c5baadf2aa4ec8.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/9bd80e02a209c19c59c205aa63b49309.jpg

CageyH

14-05-2015, 11:36

Steve,

I am asking here as I am sure other people would like to know. How much are the ebony cartridge spacers?
How heavy are the versions you offer?

Magna Audio

14-05-2015, 14:56

Hi,
CageyH,
I do them for £12 each + postage.
Any thickness you specify.

Mass depends on the thickness. 3mm would be around 0.7g.

Density wise. Ebony density is 0.98g/cm3. In comparison Birch is 0.5, oak 0.7. Delrin is 1.42g/cm3

Regards,
Steve

Geoff101

21-05-2015, 07:27

Steve - your inbox is full.

Magna Audio

31-05-2015, 11:05

One for Geoff,

From waxed ebony block to basic machining done

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/edce9e5d631587a97a651865346b083c.jpg

Finished article inc fitting kit and bolts / washers / nuts supplied for SME armbase

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/91200c1275f84eaf8702502284a2197d.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/8c7bfbd430fd63770e6a722a3971b6fe.jpg

Magna Audio

11-06-2015, 15:58

Audio Technical ATP-12t arm lift and rest holder and extra heavy counterweight

The brief was to make a armlift and rest holder to fit the lovely ATP-12t (a 10.5 inch arm), this time it had to be as short as possible to allow maximum range / travel of the arm tube slider weight.

Hewn and then fine milled out of 6mm plate Stainless Steel and then polished to match the arm / the chromed Jelco armlift that was was supplied to match.

Both the arm lift and rest are height adjustable the latter also position adjustable.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/16dfd945cda7e45a0d36ef8e342d7046.jpg

Here's how it started off, once cut to size the holes required are drilled / machined.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/83e4dd404587c93d9d1bdf93b60d414a.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/8c615740f7773f6b65ce43e83e99103e.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/6e9687efac3dc61fa6734e07a5ae445b.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/334a36c9697d095872b2ae07f6d583bd.jpg

Parts supplied

Shaped, tapped, polished and fitted out

Testing with dummy armtube

The counterweight required to balance SPUs was 200g.

This was also made of Stainless Steel, shaped to match the original and polished. A thumbscrew was chosen instead of a grub screw

Cutting the thumbscrew thread

Drilling the weight, a nylon inner damping sleeve will be fitted.

Weight checked

the finished article
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/83b22ecd868c83de01deb1324da3a3eb.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/50b71c2e33d8694274a918f3f0ad7d92.jpg

Magna Audio

06-07-2015, 17:10

Here is the armlift and rest holder, and the extra heavy counterweight for the AT arm that I recently made, in place and working nicely on the customers deck in Singapore.
Looks the part. Rather more secure than hand cueing :)

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/140899b5d5ee9060ba843e28f2802ae7.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/ea87092cf59a37b1c54c18b918d45132.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/1dd6b06aa80ffa669142f3041f4d178e.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/afd3d00ca55c681cc00a5326ea03c0c3.jpg

Ali Tait

06-07-2015, 17:32

Lovely job Steve.

Magna Audio

22-07-2015, 07:10

Next up a heavier than standard counterweight for a Technics SL-1210.
In stainless steel and featuring nylon sleeve insert and polished finish.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/ba0ce2adf5baad27e0d964bb3cd6ed87.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/9c057858997c8d74de52994402f791ee.jpg

Magna Audio

10-10-2015, 08:02

Another handcrafted armpod in polished brass this time and with a 1" thick ebony armboard.
Again cast solid lead filled for mass, adjustable feet. These armpods really are heavy/solid and do not move once placed.
The polished brass adds a nice contrast to the ebony.
This one will be fitted with a Schick 12" arm and is on it's way to Singapore.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/a8b71983ca6103c6ec46e18890c68911.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/bd7c72ffaa9f0f14ff4fe841903455c5.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/3b4c08d58c3a42ef5874e2733d1d5602.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/585ee98930ad711ecbad4234df486fc0.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/a74e948989954492f9209b119fed87cf.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/eeecf5aef48f7c8d9b330520f89512d5.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/80654e4a695dfa2ea9c22f385afea138.jpg

karma67

10-12-2015, 17:17

hi Steve,
i don't know if this is of any use to you but my boss at work was chucking in the skip some Phosphor bronze bushes from an old lift mechanism.they are round and have a hole in the middle,i have 6,the postage to you might be a killer though so if you are interested let me know and i'll have a measure up and tell you the sizes

Magna Audio

08-01-2016, 14:05

Hi Jamie123,
Sorry I missed this one at the time.
Been very busy moving home and workshop from Surrey to the New Forest.

Here's the first SME style base and adjustable collar that was always destined to be chromed all finished.

Came out nicely.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/61e032e73b4577b4cc7e90080a54a60f.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/d8f0bd86797272bb7c1463f3dc559ae7.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/3472e4142027a15f00c6d2e48ea5be9e.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/86c17e7df3a58e9394ff31bdf7cc3a3a.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/5597f0c2103ba9bd204de47d65776b01.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/78e43fe286ced660de8788bb12c8fc92.jpg

I've set up the workshop now and busy making armboards and many things hifi.

Magna Audio

01-03-2016, 07:39

Having moved house and workshop and been busy creating mostly armboards recently, it's time for an update.

Here is the latest crop.

A pair of SL-1210 ebony armboards with SME arm fitting - bound for the USA

[/URL]
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/493ddf1dd506c106c6d42c0f2b2a51b4.jpg

SL-1210 armboard in Ebony for Mikro-Seiki arm with on board rest mounting

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/68d49e2212370b246ab7e6d7fd67f661.jpg

SL-1210 armboard in Ebony for a Jelco / Ammonite uprated armbase - For Singapore this one.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/691af4f50450cca1d8aea6852d747824.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/bcdcd1a521ae6b47b3a0ed18500f4f34.jpg

A spindle reduction job so that a perspex disc could be fitted over the spindle end

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/ad55eae3b402eade532281c16be70f18.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/96c6b2b4aa16b65c1ac71bacd3042b7f.jpg

Lacquered finished armboard for a JVC QL-50 deck. Had to be very accurately made to a template / customer measurements, and with recessed turned nylon bolt mounts - for Canada this one.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/dfe00117ae13307d78d58a6950b148cf.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/d0a5bc684a3760484ff4cec3b116b45c.jpg

SL-1210 armboard in Ebony for uprated Ammonite armbase / Jelco - For the USA

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/edf9e989dfa68c837da887a20b61b985.jpg

SL-1210 Ebony for a Dynavector DV-505 arm - For New Zealand this one.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/d94442de767d8cd5350870d963fe6b8d.jpg

Marco

01-03-2016, 08:43

Great work as usual, Steve! Hope the move went well, and both your good lady and you are keeping well. So where are you now - any nearer me, lol, or even further down south? :)

Marco.

Magna Audio

07-03-2016, 10:50

Hi Marco,
:) Even further down South! Southern part of the New Forest 5 miles from the coast.

Magna Audio

07-03-2016, 15:57

A little timeout from the many projects I have on the go for some customer feedback :-

This was for an armboard for customer in Singapore

"Hi Steve:

Finally had time to install the armboard.

Fits perfectly. Attached are some pics.

Thanks again for your wonderful product and service."

It's always nice to hear how things have gone and see the installation of the things I make in use. Getting some lovely pics of the deck and arm fitted are a bonus

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/f1a67b724c4b593cf0b4e187d38e1ee1.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/7f4cb38abe31fb9cf6d9823a4ab1cb43.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/1be0e6f3bebb53de074869325270a359.jpg

Here's some feedback from the customer for the bespoke AT armlift and rest I made in polished stainless steel, and an extra heavy
counterweight too.

Steve,

Just a brief “thank you” note. I’ve been listening to the ATP-12t with the extra weight & arm rest/lift
and am very happy. I’m using Miyajima Premium Be mono cartridge in a heavy Fidelity Research FR-S/3
headshell and the combinations requires the extra weight. Mono records sound great with this.
Thanks again!

Pics of the counterweight and arm lift and on deck.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/1ba1d9cf6eea6a2d8816b7fd7d00f1eb.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171028/a041dc1eaafad911b02cc47d98f9d3b6.jpg

Steve,

Ammonite Audio

07-03-2016, 16:52

Nice to see one of my collars there too!

Magna Audio

08-03-2016, 11:33

Nice to see one of my collars there too!

Yes indeed :) I'm doing another SA-750 armboard today / tomorrow ;)

Magna Audio

29-04-2016, 07:13

More interesting projects

An ARS-1 ebony armboard mound for the States

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/559f51f5ba9f8bb25004918b65027276.jpg

Ebony headshell spacer & counterweight for an SL-1210 also in the States

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/8e9ef15b52cdc68dd23f78be37b954e5.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/50d60634430bce025244e6a609a18598.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/1451fc2c6f3363836fd589837f3df318.jpg

A brass / ebony record weight puck bound for Spain. Don't worry, there is a centred hole for the spindle - just not in the felt in that photo :)

Shown here with an armboard for the same customer

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/1791554acd3febb9437180cf2f67ef38.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/beea2726994ee8eb1d300e29acdcdce2.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/24196fabba1a7a3899381fec2c8a38e9.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/92f4c55e77132568f5512a6b4e07d9bd.jpg

More Flanges for Bob

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/37083b8b0c5d05d5d61ec11d28c343a9.jpg

Something a little different - A WAF Najda 4 Channel DSP DAC / ADC, X/O with WaveIO USB -> I2S input.

The Najda board and WaveIO are complete but very much build into a case yourself project items. The case was CNC machined to ensure good fit and looks - Thanks to Pete and Wal for help on the case.
This one is fitted full with Burson OP-amps and a very nice OLED display..

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/a1cd1922478286492201c40c0a785456.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/8f5dd3529a47f09eeb767c83dbfe355f.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/aef21bcf97d1ddb42ea069492c0bbb17.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/9907a7ffcd82543c79a0d20bb20a8e9b.jpg

Here's a nice ebony one for Scotland - for a Mission 774

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/4fcde454c5536b2b644162dba63788e3.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/953c24a3779301dc28167dff6deaa958.jpg

I've lots more on the go, so watch this space.

Marco

29-04-2016, 07:24

Superb stuff as usual, Steve, although you can't beat a nice flange.... :eyebrows:

Keep up the good work!

Marco.

Magna Audio

10-05-2016, 15:10

First one is an African Blackwood, for an Ammonite base / Jelco 750 arm.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/1fc19e5fe05cd424fbef34902e29d4ef.jpg

This Ebony one is for the Mission 774 arm. It's a much bigger armbase than the SME offerings.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/3387f4f4c35c3c0acf2191934c31ad17.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/5a8a9ad5e49c19ed2cdcd43f5a72ebb4.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/ed9e244ecf8887a3915e75cbcafd54c8.jpg

I have a satin black armpod and a valve amp protective valve cage on the go ready soon

Magna Audio

27-05-2016, 21:24

Here are the latest projects I've been making.

First up is an armpod all in black to match its surroundings.
This one was not as tall as the others so it can be used on a standard height plinth / platter turntable. The cast lead filling means it is plenty
heavy enough to not be moving.
Ebony armboard (of course) and black lacquered steel tube body. Feet also in black and smooth this time,

The arm to be fitted is a Rega RB303.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/ba3409abb096bea6ad5f984b9efb2509.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/4510cec1044b2513410394e37af92158.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/4b17fc5eacb3c6ff2229cb57db342b39.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/f163ad370593aac5b71996cd76596603.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/5c42c6f8cc2e8c81a42bc8b50454a214.jpg

Here's another AT 12T armlift holder. It's a great arm but manual cueing perhaps puts some
off. Here is a besoke solution make from solid Stainless steel.
Highly polished to match the arm it will mount on.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/c4cf8443bd298091fa25b805729b8b29.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/dc604913abaa79862ae5e67accaaccb1.jpg

A one-off this one - a cage to keep little fingers away from
hot KT88 tubes. Welded steel construction with wire mesh fitted.
Carefully done so there are no sharp edges.
This took a bit of prototyping to get something solid.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/18218bee59d388020e2ffb508d36fc02.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/d547bac24f210eb3f1a4f8cfa1815d75.jpg

Here's a brass balancing weight for a tonearm.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/0fa462912f0636ebe38071fcb1ae83fe.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/cc953ae5f12c1f7fead52dd4dc11f23f.jpg

RobbieGong

27-05-2016, 21:50

Superb work as always Steve :)

Magna Audio

17-06-2016, 07:17

Thanks Robbie :)

I recently produced this one for a customer in Norway.

For a nice SL-1210 MKII using the uprated Ammonite Jelco armbase.

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/WP_20160604_11_52_23_Pro.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/WP_20160604_11_52_23_Pro.jpg.html)

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/WP_20160604_11_08_11_Pro.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/WP_20160604_11_08_11_Pro.jpg.html)

Here's a picture of the armobard and arm all mounted up that the customer sent me

http://i727.photobucket.com/albums/ww272/speedysteve7/hifi/Armboard/armboard.jpg (http://s727.photobucket.com/user/speedysteve7/media/hifi/Armboard/armboard.jpg.html)

He also wrote some feedback he was happy for me to share.

"Hi there!

Got the armboard and fittings safe and sound in the mail yesterday, a couple of minutes later it was easily installed on my deck.
All I can say - I am really stunned by your work and craftmanship. So perfect! I really love the look and feel of ebony wood used, excellent polish!
The immediate sonic upgrade from my aluminium armboard is really a step up in clarity. Bass is firmer, and therefore the soundstage is singing all the way up. Really worthwhile upgrade for my turntable!
Thank you a lot Steve for a perfect product and perfect service.
Have posted my best recommendations of your service on the local forums, so hopefully you will have some busy days ahead :-)"

Magna Audio

31-08-2016, 06:52

Here's a 195g counterweight for a very nice Origin Live modded arm.
This one was sent to New Zealand.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/59b69b6f130f361d3ba6bdbeadb8d8d3.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/29d4b79fa6c3d07155acd6f18f5b8031.jpg

This one is a lacquered aluminium armboard for a Voyd Valdi deck and SME arm. Threaded steel inserts for the SME blind mounting nuts.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/e486f90876ef79ff65b9cd3862789e1d.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/970afc75d017ced09c36e9048258e3fb.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/770d650aadc8905c8b274700beade7e8.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/9438387953efcfb7f133bd569c9827fc.jpg

I received this feedback

"Morning Steve,

Thanks for creating the armboard for me, its a lovely thing ☺

Should I need anything crafted in the future I shall let you know."

Next is an arm lift holder assembly in polished Stainless steel for the Audio Technica ATP-12 tonearm. This one for the UK.
(The tube is just for test purposes)

Here's another arm lift assembly but this time for the AT-150 II arm. This one was sent to Austin Texas.
(The tube is just for test purposes)

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/28128177ead557488829838c3782f14c.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/7c272fc604bba09157d9b41c05dfd58a.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/d8977c426365c645ed58abaddd3f2658.jpg

Here's an SME fitting armboard in ebony that went to the San Jose USA.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/6faeb4db7212529e8242ec5e95a20051.jpg

I received this feedback about the improvement the armboard has made

"Hi Steve,

After one week testing and listening I can tell you what a magical combination is your arm board and SME tonearm is. All the irritating artifacts are gone. The music is simply flowing.

So thanks a lot for your work and all the best."

A more unusual one this, Small polished aluminium holders for a pair of super tweeters. The design was specified by the customer. They bolt under the existing speaker stands and can be angled to point the tweeters directly at the listening spot.

Accurately made to spec

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/26663de3e00587c4407c9a65f74c50eb.jpg

Before polishing

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/c0b8e5e82cbb3beb6c0cdc90c7460f43.jpg

All polished up

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/1468cd0310499e655f2b216924415261.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171027/47582456889a967943743930dc8e6921.jpg

I've also got several armboards on the go right now.

If you would like something for your hifi to improve it or make an new configuration work, I'm happy to discuss.

Magna Audio

13-09-2016, 17:13

Here's a nice little project. A turned aluminium arm base. As per the original it has the Linn three hole fitting and 2, 120 deg opposed grub screws to securely hold the arm pillar.

Thanks to Jamie123 for letting us know that the customer spec of 16mm should be 18.5mm.
I'll bore it out ;)

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/9a5fe1fa0c734eb1f1097304bd9241d1.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/ef64355ff59347866a0b84465ca7001b.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/08a72c1bf86d43e839c6146c6fd2f11c.jpg

Magna Audio

13-09-2016, 22:32

A busy time with lots of armboards

First off an ebony armboard for the excellent Ammonite armbase upgrade for Jelco arms

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/1533a8a2f9a19bf5a157f0dc3e2abc2f.jpg

Feedback received so far: "I received the arm board today, and I am very pleased with it. The quality and finish are first class. "

Next up another Ammonite Jelco armboard but this time in African Blackwood for a SL-1200 Mk5G
Here are the pics the customer sent me of it installed.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/265a9f7840acd0bc3fbb7f56c23256b9.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/f67df854c6a0cc6147013f108e6fe165.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/dd1a0948f496003f5b056a8811c049b6.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/ba44b8a5b86a93b675751660cc232fc4.jpg

Then a Ebony armboard for a SME arm, again for a SL-1210.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/49c588306b9e4fbc68eb7de701c80011.jpg

I received this feedback about the armboard from the customer

"Just wanted to let you know that the armboard arrived last week (Wednesday), and I fitted it over the weekend (the fitting kit worked as planned with the mk5g). It’s a beautiful item, looks great in situ and bears no comparison to its metal predecessor (which was slightly nasty, despite not being cheap).

Initial listening suggests that my issue with occasionally wayward bass has been addressed (a pleasant and unexpected surprise) and that the sometimes hard edge to the mids and uppers has gone. Never quite sure what to expect when changing components (I so want to hear a difference...!), but the new armboard genuinely appears to have realised a notable improvement.

Thanks also for the speed of construction and your communications – been a pleasure from start to finish."

Here it is on the customers deck

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/4f8a8f9d014f899d6c30dda35b03a332.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/f71ee3216d8f572f4ca1f8b563039669.jpg

Magna Audio

19-10-2016, 14:27

Made this one for a Groovemaster MKII tonearm. Different arms can be accommodated by means of another collar.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/d7e9621d98d87ff1355ca1e4ffe86487.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/b3fca67439d93283a1cfa0817873c738.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/a280f12468a5ae2c5e66aa66344b5ab1.jpg

Here are a couple of Ebony armboards bound for France where they will grace a couple of SL-1210's using the Ammonite uprated armbases.
These were supplied direct to me from Ammonite and I fitted them for the customer.
Should sound the business :)

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/745f8cc743ed947a688d100d2265042b.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/eba10510ee6e43ce8a3339fb0e333c58.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/1e01fc266a3eef610a8660bf9b2cd9d0.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/1b965c522d6202330e8b06bafedc5c5b.jpg

Here's a solution to a failed Fidelity Research FR64s tone arm lift. Use a currently available Jelco lift, which is of nice quality. I made an adapter cylinder for the arm owner / customer who is in Singapore. Here it is being tested on my SP-10 / FR64s arm.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/b5081f0e0f6931cd654934523cf0e850.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/8cda39b9d150a8e11c3337a57a7f67a5.jpg

Magna Audio

29-10-2016, 14:52

This one is bound for New Zealand.
This one will be mounted from underneath by 3 bolts into brass threaded inserts I made which screw into the African Blackwood.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/38cda054c6b6af9358368dcf9b66eaf9.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/b393f60a625f6db22f7db61907d52501.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/ec68ee6236e47e37eb2d2311ee9854d2.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171026/368eca70c71b982318327675026cdb0b.jpg

Marco

18-11-2016, 08:30

Hi Steve,

You have a PM regarding your trade account. Please respond ASAP. Cheers :)

Marco.

Magna Audio

24-11-2016, 09:59

More interesting and varied projects for customers. All bespoke and unique.

This one for a Thorens TD-125 MKII. It will be returning to me for Jelco armbase fitting once the owner has marked it up.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4415/35545310444_01b912c77c_z_d.jpg

Polished brass volume and control knobs
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4405/36212723992_aac2f98c58_z_d.jpg

Copper binding post plates fitted with very nice Vitavox binding posts

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4433/36212726332_8d2efdbf65_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4373/36244233911_057fb497f1_z_d.jpg

A pair of steel boxes for component shielding, made to customer spec with removable lids and completely weld sealed

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4383/36380779125_83b90bf653_z_d.jpg

Here's a special SME counterweight that screws into a spider stub, made to specific weight and with a Whitworth threaded bar

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4368/36244299291_f1e96ff25e_z_d.jpg

Lacquered in black

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4379/36244295241_173cb8a5e1_z_d.jpg

This is a smaller adapter project that enables to heavy weights to work nicely together - IO3 arm and the armboard for a Claro deck.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4395/35984394130_83d8701c2c_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4393/36380904415_27b007a45b_z_d.jpg

Magna Audio

26-11-2016, 08:39

Nice piece of ebony. this one is for a SME V, bound for the USA

Starts life as block turned round

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5515/31133094791_ac25fedb06_z.jpg

Then detail machining top and bottom to get it to fit the plinth / subplinth.

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5800/31133095651_1db5e9dfbe_b.jpg

With cutouts for plinth and subplinth and mounting holes etc. The fitting kit is popped in from above, making removal, for say fitting another arm or armboard, a doddle. All polished up (much rubbing down, and many layers of wax and lots of elbow grease).

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5625/31133093681_ca996209a7_z.jpg

Off to San Francisco - hope to get some on deck pics to share.

Magna Audio

28-11-2016, 20:58

This one will be installed and used in Surrey

https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5322/31266916696_7a9ed33726_b.jpg

Magna Audio

02-12-2016, 20:34

I got this nice shot back from the customer.

Looks good! I bet it sounds good too!

https://c7.staticflickr.com/6/5792/30557130254_10e2e5ee1c_k.jpg

karma67

02-12-2016, 20:39

thats about the same size as mine,being solid are you concerned with movement?
second thoughts scrub that,its fixed strategic well to cope :)

Magna Audio

02-12-2016, 20:45

thats about the same size as mine,being solid are you concerned with movement?
second thoughts scrub that,its fixed strategic well to cope :)

Were you thinking of the arm or the board. Can't see movement being an issue, as you say it's well fixed and a really solid piece of well seasoned ebony.

karma67

02-12-2016, 20:47

yes sorry i meant the board,mines 22mm and starting to smile,lol ive put o-rings under it to give me some chance of it sitting flat but as you know when wood wants to move it bloody will!

Magna Audio

11-01-2017, 16:47

Here's some of the latest products

An ebony record weight / puck that is bound for New Zealand

During turning

https://c2.staticflickr.com/1/773/32130538041_f073626cde_k.jpg

Finished

https://c3.staticflickr.com/1/630/32211419706_8fe01f8e16_b.jpg

Next up special turntable feet from blocks of ebony for a Verdier Vintage/Heritage Turntable

https://c3.staticflickr.com/1/695/32211429906_74e988de69_h.jpg

Stainless steel inserts for the spiked plinth

https://c3.staticflickr.com/1/738/31287242834_15e5d901f8_h.jpg

Finished

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/524/31287242584_26eb38e669_h.jpg

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/726/31287242024_db35c90eff_h.jpg

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/406/31287241664_ff7302e994_h.jpg

https://c5.staticflickr.com/1/779/31287240964_30dae78dbb_b.jpg

Here's a top hat / flange for a turntable under machining

https://c2.staticflickr.com/1/709/31439567713_fde1353813_h.jpg

Lastly a pair of 550Hz horns with Vitavox S2 compression driver fittings.
Turned from soft Redwood pine - this give the best possible sound.
These are off to the Ukraine.

https://c8.staticflickr.com/1/646/31439554303_e096f910e0_h.jpg

https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/517/32211410016_464fb1c030_h.jpg

https://c8.staticflickr.com/1/307/32130767991_2984fa2ee1_h.jpg

https://c7.staticflickr.com/1/597/31408790694_c1c30cb2fb_h.jpg

Next up will be more armboards :)

Magna Audio

14-01-2017, 09:25

Ebony armboard for SL-1210 for use with the Jelco Ammonite uprated armbase

This one is bound for Canada

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/461/32179178451_165d40aab2_z_d.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/734/32179178341_1688d26633_z_d.jpg

Magna Audio

28-01-2017, 07:46

Here is an ebony armboard for the SL-1210 and a Sumiko MMT arm

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/710/31720780424_07c0cfc628_z_d.jpg

A 170g nylon insert double grub screw counterweight for the Rega R200 arm

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/504/32411855262_30201f6eae_z_d.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/591/32411855462_2684bd1f3e_z_d.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/419/32523841696_6b16af0710_z_d.jpg

coming up next a couple of stand alone armpods and copper L-brackets

Magna Audio

06-02-2017, 16:41

A couple of bespoke items made bound for Spain

Armboard in Ebony 8mm thick and brass ring 4mm thick. Bonded and screwed together.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/691/31933966713_f1832819e3_z_d.jpg

A 3g half sleeve weight for use to increase the mass of a tonearm towards the cartridge end.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/266/31933966163_d5a3a23c8f_z_d.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/685/32594659622_52b28a8665_z_d.jpg

Also an armboard in billet aluminium 22mm thick, 80mm diameter. Armhole for a Fidelity Research FR64s tonearm to fit a Kenwood KD-990
turntable.

Pictured here with my FR64s mounted up.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/676/32594685042_28b0fa8c26_z_d.jpg

Showing the required offset

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/666/31904919464_b8e3575865_z_d.jpg

Ammonite Audio

06-02-2017, 19:00

Lovely - that FR64S arm boss is for me and I reckon the FR64S will sing beautifully on the old, naked Kenwood KD-990. With a Miyajima cartridge up front, of course!

Magna Audio

08-02-2017, 16:36

Lovely - that FR64S arm boss is for me and I reckon the FR64S will sing beautifully on the old, naked Kenwood KD-990. With a Miyajima cartridge up front, of course!

Thanks Hugo - hope so :)

Magna Audio

09-02-2017, 13:41

This one is bound for Austria for a ClearAudio unify tonearm and will be used with a Jean Nantais Reference/Classic Lenco - this has a very high/thick plint arrangement hence the armpod height being 21.5 cm. +/- 5mm range is provided by the adjustable feet.

Usual very heavy mass so it will not move in use and will provide the perfect off plinth mounting for the tonearm.

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/481/32748537825_bc123f52d5_z_d.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/334/32707561616_4f9d9410b7_z_d.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/501/32748538675_3ab5a0e496_z_d.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/457/32707562296_fa3bd72dca_z_d.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/631/32748539085_762c56725e_z_d.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/290/32707562976_1989be21ce_z_d.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/298/32744465726_b82e25d73c_z_d.jpg
(Please excuse the quality on this last one)

Magna Audio

05-03-2017, 20:51

Here is a Technics SL-1210 ebony armboard for the USA. This one is for the SME M2-9 tone arm.

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2904/32456658973_f8f73d8bf6_z_d.jpg

This one a Technics SL-1210 ebony armboard kitted out for the Micro Seiki tone arm and extra hole for the arm rest.

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2845/32972537446_d6f4a7b54a_z_d.jpg

This one is a special for Hugo of Ammonite Audio.

I bet you can't guess what it's spec'd for!

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2121/32888107841_6decf24650_z_d.jpg

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2003/32858497062_3607cfdbd8_z_d.jpg

At nearly 200g in weight - It's an arm damper weight for the Jelco arm

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/752/32888243090_7327e9d261_z_d.jpg

Lastly a Counterweight with Nylon insert sleeve and double grub screws - 170g

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2687/32198605883_171ef2ee0a_z_d.jpg

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2576/32858530142_eb3ef81f89_z_d.jpg

Magna Audio

07-03-2017, 14:37

Here's a link to what Hugo of Ammonite Audio says is going on with the Arm damper weight.

http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?29401-Magna-Audio-News-amp-Product-Updates&p=841721#post841721

I'm going to try it on my Fidelity Research FR64s too!

Magna Audio

09-03-2017, 17:03

This one for Peter. Will be in the post tomorrow.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3738/32961297880_f967231ce9_z_d.jpg

Magna Audio

09-03-2017, 17:10

This one is for Hugo's FR64s.

Pictured atop my FR64s ;)

I will give it a listen this evening, before posting off to Hugo tomorrow.

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3693/32529626313_3a066dbf18_z_d.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/703/33303045716_01bb4c9878_z_d.jpg

https://farm1.staticflickr.com/746/33303045396_1f02536bcc_z_d.jpg

Here's a link to what Hugo wrote about the sound changes of the damper weight on his Jelso tonearm

http://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?29401-Magna-Audio-News-amp-Product-Updates&p=841721#post841721

Magna Audio

17-03-2017, 13:28

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2931/32647435744_d943f122ea_z_d.jpgSL-1210 Ebony armboard with SME mounting

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3680/32647383594_7d9f8a3abe_z_d.jpg

SL-1210 Ebony armboard with Micro Seiki armbase mounted

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3865/32647383744_9ae8130271_z_d.jpg

Jelco arm damper weight

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2931/32647435744_d943f122ea_z_d.jpg

https://farm4.staticflickr.com/3880/32647435504_a65b21c329_z_d.jpg

Magna Audio

09-04-2017, 06:59

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2882/33926100995_2826b21a41_z_d.jpg

Magna Audio

09-04-2017, 07:08

Thorens TD-125 armboards are popular lately :)

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2889/33926442925_2fc0b19a32_z_d.jpg

Magna Audio

20-04-2017, 09:20

Here are some shots of an interesting speaker binding post project. These will go on a bespoke amp.
OFC copper, ebony plywood (I fabricated this using my vacuum bag press) and brass. Nice combo

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2884/33769884050_1456718e96_z_d.jpg

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2906/34154823515_e79322de1d_z_d.jpg

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2812/33769883640_5f0f409202_z_d.jpg

A Jelco arm damper weight pictured on the customers deck. This was the one that went to Singapore recently.
Nice to see my ebony armboard and Ammonite uprated Jelco armbase resplendent there too.

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2926/34113804846_73ac3264fc_z_d.jpg

Fits neatly under the cover too.

https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2831/33769875800_88ff752f4c_z_d.jpg

Here's the feedback about the damper weight sound change.

"Hi Steve,

The damper arrived earlier this week, but was travelling and I have just installed it on my Jelco arm yesterday.

I am not good at describing sound, not a night and day improvement, very subtle but definitely sound better with the damper than without it.

Thanks."

Magna Audio

18-05-2017, 15:21

Bespoke cable holder for Robbie.

Machined birch ply that has been ebony stained and satin lacquered

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4178/34605083901_339e3364f0_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4175/34696329126_1f5b7a4b23_z_d.jpg

SL1210 MkII ebony armboard for the USA. Shuggie / Ammonite uprated Jelco armbase fitted all ready to go.
This will replace a stock arm! That's going to be some upgrade..

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4190/34696345816_5d4d3464d7_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4161/34696344936_22ff897d83_z_d.jpg

RobbieGong

18-05-2017, 15:59

Thanks Steve, Great work as always.

If anyone is wondering what the block of wood with four grooves is for.

It is to provide a platform / support for my speaker cable to lay in at the point it meets the speaker wire inputs at the rear of my Sansui AU 919.
I bare wire into the original spring clips which whilst adequate dont have a vice like grip.

The wire / cable entry point at the rear of my rack meant my heavy speaker cable was coming up and weighing / pulling down from the spring clip inputs so,
I got to designing this aid which Steve has produced perfectly.

I will drill a couple of holes for the speaker cable to enter the rack parallel to the rear of the amp speaker inputs where the cable will sit in each groove of the block as it enters the spring clips.
This block will be glued in the perfect position at the back of the rack, behind the amp at speaker cable entry point providing support for the cable, no more weighing down or pull - Happy days !!! :)

danilo

18-05-2017, 18:19

That.. was easier than replacing those excreable spring clips with even Ebay sourced speaker posts?
Seems as a curious solution.

RobbieGong

18-05-2017, 18:53

:) Curious lol, I like that word.
I didn't / don't want to change the speaker posts.
The spring clips do their job and I like the idea of bare wire straight in as is, nothing in the way.

The issue was the cable entry point of my rack which meant cable upwards to the amp.
As I say my cable is thick and heavy so a weighing down.
This simple block strategically placed and a couple of new small holes in rack at the right point for cable - Job done, curiously :D

Magna Audio

16-06-2017, 16:50

Latest projects and products.

First up is a special sized and weighted for a SAEC arm. This one went to Sweden.

First unpolished
https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4275/35305259046_5d75139602_z_d.jpg

Then polished up

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4216/34534809393_1edaf1607f_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4256/34534809693_887f76aebe_z_d.jpg

This next next one is a bespoke armplate slider in aluminium for Hugo of Ammonite Audio fame :)
This is for a Reed 3P tonearm and can be seen and heard at the North West Audio Show where the Kenwood/Reed3P combination will be showing off a Miyajima Shilabe stereo cartridge. More details here https://www.facebook.com/ammoniteaudio/

10mm billet aluminium plates, 80mm diameter

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4227/34957642640_0afe0f6b56_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4218/35177944952_8eb553c9df_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4281/34957640240_95c4e0c265_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4233/35177943762_daeba5210e_z_d.jpg

This next one is a headshell repair. The threads were a bit pulled so I milled them out and replaced them with steel threaded inserts.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4271/35177947992_1fa6dca722_z_d.jpg

Now for some Tannoy GRF replica cabs in premium birch ply, 21mm throughout. These are to my own design to be a bit taller and narrower to
be easier to accommodate into rooms. I design them to retain the original back loaded horn volumes, so they sound identical to the regular shaped GRF replica cabs I also build.
These are bound for Staffordshire UK. They can be palletized and shipped overseas by air within Europe, or sea to the rest of the world.
Here are some pics of the construction. More pics to follow as they are completed.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4214/35177975202_714b9cc0b8_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4196/34534835513_ef75f0372a_z_d.jpg

Finally an armpod bound for Canada. First requirement was for a deck that was of 9.5 cm plinth height + / - 1cm via the adjustable feet. This was added to in height for flexibility of deck use by means of a lower extension piece.
This is bolted into the top piece for perfect stability.
Both sections are 4" aluminium tube, lead filled and weight approx 7kgs. Very stable and solid.
A Reed tonearm will be fitted to the ebony armboard.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4253/34957651760_0e4a5ee8bc_z_d.jpg

Magna Audio

19-06-2017, 11:18

Here's a pic of the base of the 2 stage armpod showing the long bolts that secure the 2 halves as one when in tall mode.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4278/34593051413_1ff004624f_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4237/35277485571_1aeeb4e357_z_d.jpg

Magna Audio

19-06-2017, 19:01

The big Tannoys get a test fit in the cabshttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170619/3356b6c82cc9216532d2465f6749a939.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170619/81fc115f859d487a3eac696611728e9b.jpg

Sent from my Moto G (5) using Tapatalk

Magna Audio

30-06-2017, 10:53

These beauties will be off to Canada shortly by UPS.

They will be used with Reed 3P arms in various plinth and deck configurations.

This round disc 125mm in diameter and 10mm thick if in African Blackwood

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4070/35626935075_1dce8351a5_z_d.jpg

This Square one is 150mm and 10mm thick in Ebony

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4014/35587558056_f238c357a4_z_d.jpg

Finally a pic of all three items

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4277/35496559041_6312a9537f_z_d.jpg

Magna Audio

07-07-2017, 06:59

This one is off to Canada. The customer was interested in the Ammonite Audio Jelco uprated armbase which I procured and fitted all ready to go.

http://theartofsound.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=20741&d=1499410543

Magna Audio

07-07-2017, 07:00

I'll be making two of these for a USA customer. Polished brass - nice.
One a 4" diameter pod and one a 3" diameter.

http://theartofsound.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=20740&d=1499409795

More to follow

Magna Audio

21-07-2017, 07:22

A couple of armboards bound for Hong Kong.
One is for the very popular Reed 3P arm and the other an SME fitting. Both are fitted with blind nuts for both armboard and armbase fitting.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4309/35219824244_ef3f1fefec_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4320/35926382581_1ea9ceea27_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4307/35670166610_dc53d50aac_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4306/36059576185_b537a8c6c9_z_d.jpg

Next up is an Ebony armboard for a Technics SL-1210 deck to fit the lovely Fidelity Research FR64x tonearm

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4305/35926344831_e2c1c809e7_o_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4292/35926345891_d9f4487fb2_o_d.jpg

Here's an update on the armpod in polished brass for another Reed3P arm. This one is for the USA.
Again blind nuts are used for the armbase mounting.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4324/35250952053_91e459ff4b_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4296/35219756674_2af9390a82_o_d.jpg

Instead of composite spikes this one has cork disc feet providing cushioning for the 3 brass adjustable feet. Pod weight is circa 7kgs.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4298/35926462181_29f1ac1337_o_d.jpg

During the build of the above, I was asked to add another smaller armpod for an existing armboard the customer had.

Again nice and heavy with cork disc feet. The large M10 bolt will secure the 30mm thick armboard.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4313/35250951613_fd21c9b598_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4309/35219905694_88221c3eab_o_d.jpg

Here they are relative to each other before final armboard drillings

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4304/36059790355_9e108ea0d4_o_d.jpg

Magna Audio

02-08-2017, 14:24

This was was requested at 47g and fits a 16.5mm armstub diameter. A nylon tipped grubscrew was also specified.

Machined to the weight

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4417/36288920796_6b6b3dbf8c_z_d.jpg

Finished article

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4369/36288917306_a918e50cd0_o_d.jpg

Nylon tipped grubscrew

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4413/35497238964_d60fbd90fe_z_d.jpg

Magna Audio

11-08-2017, 16:35

Latest work.

First a record puck in Gunmetal with an ebony base. This one was requested at 1.5kgs and features ebony cores set into the gunmetal.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4400/36335460372_b1fb730789_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4388/36503783345_380a4f22ed_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4383/36503782035_9efbe1ee0e_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4358/36503781615_f240c43584_z_d.jpg

Next up a case / sleeve surround in solid oak with turned aluminium feet for a Truth amp.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4359/36335448732_917001648f_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4382/36457329156_b415bc3933_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4389/36457328376_68db2cf43b_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4358/36457327726_d8a7bc7038_z_d.jpg

montesquieu

13-08-2017, 18:06

Hmmm FR64 on a tricked out Techie. Now that would be interesting.

MikeMusic

14-08-2017, 16:37

Hmmm FR64 on a tricked out Techie. Now that would be interesting.

Mine does !

Guess who did the armboard
:)

Magna Audio

25-08-2017, 18:31

This Platine Verdier block needed to be modded to fit the Ammonite uprated Jelco armbase.
It had seen quite a bit of action with various armbases..

Here it is as was

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4385/36403195180_9266276c85_z_d.jpg

Here it is refurbed and lacquered in gloss black with armbase fitted ready to go.

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4439/36403195720_30df24792b_z_d.jpg

https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4375/36752801356_b4f6cf710a_z_d.jpg

Magna Audio

02-10-2017, 17:24

Spacer in aluminium, locating pin in stainless steel and collate in birch plywood.

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Magna Audio

12-10-2017, 15:39

Here are some bespoke OFC copper phono sockets I made for Simon

I tested the M8 threads to destruction, torquing them up. They are plenty strong enough.

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Tested with a variety of phono plugs.

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Installed on Simon's amp.

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Magna Audio

12-10-2017, 16:11

SL-1210 armboard for the Ammonite audio uprated armbase.

Bound for New Zealand this one.

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Magna Audio

12-10-2017, 16:17

8 x brass feet for a couple of amps for Simon. M6 threaded / nuts for easy chassis mounting.
Polished surrounds. These will have have felt or cork pads.

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Magna Audio

12-10-2017, 16:21

SL-1210 armboard in ebony for Rega RB300

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Magna Audio

12-10-2017, 16:36

An ebony armboard disc fit a Trio KD-500 turntable.

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SME fitting with threaded inserts for mounting the arm.

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Magna Audio

12-10-2017, 17:00

Ebony armboard for SL-1210 to fit a Origin Live Conqueror tonearm.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171012/bf5a4a32e7418a225cbc0edeb64a2686.jpg

Magna Audio

12-10-2017, 17:13

My solid ebony version of Micro Seiki AX-4G Turntable Armboard for SME 12"

Over 1" thick with a gunmetal bush to ensure solid clamping.

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Alongside the 9" original

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Clamped on a test pillar.

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Magna Audio

14-10-2017, 12:52

Latest ebony armboard for a 'The Wand' tonearm.

As you can see with a spindle to pivot distance of 241mm, this one fits an SL-1210 just.

Set up with threaded inserts for mounting from underneath.

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Will be off to New Zealand soon (where The Wand tonearm comes from).

This thick solid ebony armboard will be replacing the thin metal plate ;)

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171014/eb5f1d617f1afd79369c453595d25309.jpg

Magna Audio

20-10-2017, 12:18

Just started a copper case for an Audio Note Step Up Transformer.

I'm retaining the front and rear panels that show all the settings and what plug goes where.

This will be a totally enclosed copper case with turned ebony feet and my copper phono sockets.

More to follow..

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Magna Audio

30-10-2017, 13:02

An update on the Audio Note Step Up Transformer case and my copper phono sockets project.
I turned ebony feet for it too.

It is about 20 years old featuring silver wiring and windings.
It needed a little TLC on the black fascia and knobs too.

Here it is all done.

I tested it thoroughly on my rig. Sounded great.

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