Into the Voyd and back again

[AJSki2fly]

Well after much thought and discussion with some well respected Audiophiles on here I decided some weeks ago to scratch an itch and to try another turntable. I had ended up with a list of 6 from these helpful chaps. The 6 listed below being considered great VFM and giving very good results, even when compared to some very expensive modern gear.

"1. Voyd great dynamics and bass slams and openness

2. Technics sp10 for sense of space and foundation and great imaging

3. Garrard 401 audio grail with a russ collinson cherry plinth prefferably with sme m12r or the timestep arm this would give superb grip over the music and superb timing with real good bass. the sme Iv will also do well

4. Nottingham analogue hyperspace for sence of grip with great bass and speed to boot.

5. Townshend rock reference hard to find but a real stunner in terms of performance i dont think you will find one but worth a mention.

6. Alphason sonata hr100 mcs fantastic midrange and vibrancy brilliant bass performance"

So after some thought and investigations, and further discussions with the guys I opted to try and find a Voyd that was as good as I could find, my limit was £2K so this ruled out a Voyd 0.5 or Reference. Fortune must have been on my side as I stumbled across a NM one with a dealer in Copenhagen, Henrik had taken it in part exchange. After a couple of phone calls and emails a good price was agreed and Henrik said he would hold it for me for a few weeks whilst I got the cash together. The deck had been tested by them and it was running very close to 33.33 and with very low wow/flutter. The only issue was that it did not have an SME arm board. It was decided to make one initially from a cut down Linn/SME arm board (on ebay for £39) it has worked and the arm/cartridge are correctly aligned, but i am not happy with it for the long term and am having one made by Steve at Magna Audio.

In advance I had made up a short phono stage lead using Cardas cable with a right angle SME plug on one end and a male pug on the other, this was because my Furutech lead is not very flexible and I wanted to avoid impeding the Voyd suspension. Prior to sending the deck Henrik had advised me to order a replacement drive belt, he had ordered one but it had not turned up, the original having seen better days, so i ordered one that I thought was correct.

Last Monday the Voyd arrived very carefully packaged, and after carefully getting it out onto the kitchen table I set about setting up the SME arm and levelling and testing the deck. I fitted the new drive belt and to my surprise it now ran 1% fast, I tried the old one but as Henrik said it had seen better days and kept coming off, the rubber had stretched. This episode set off a long investigation into Voyd belts and I have since found out it is critical to get one of the right thickness, apart from length, for the model of Voyd deck, mine needing one that is 0.5mm thick, the one I had being about 7.5mm. To some this will not make any sense, and it did not to me, but trust me the thicker the belt is the faster it will run. Anyway I have found a supply of the correct belts which should arrive early next week.

After a couple of careful hours setting up I put it in position in the lounge and plugged up and put a record on only to find I had only one channel:doh:. So down it came to inspect the home made lead, as I did so horror of horrors a pin from the SME was still in the end of the right angle plug, how this happened I do not know, it just failed at its base. So onto the phone to SME, and a trip to the post office on Tuesday morning, and off it went for repair. To my shock and delight the SME arm turned up on Friday afternoon fixed and me £93 lighter, but what great service from SME. So yesterday I got it up and working and had an initial listen and thought this sounds different.

Today I have sat down and listened to 18 test tracks that I am very familiar with and use to review new gear or system changes, have just done this these are my thoughts on the Voyd.

The Voyd has great depth of sound in the bass and mid-range, and sounds very engaging and dynamic, it gives a lovely musical rendition. There is no edginess, everything sounds as it should, punchy and dynamic with lots of detail. On certain tracks long notes just seemed to hang in the air. I also noticed more detail, I could hear aspects of the recording environment with echo evident room acoustics. The top end is very good as well, no harshness noticed from any instruments or vocals. Overall it just all sounds right, very impressive, a very well balance musical sound with superb dynamics and detail. By the way the isolation is great no microphonics from the cartridge even when playing a record when you tap the shelf it sits on. I would score it a very strong 9/10 for its overall performance, in fact its more of a 9.5/10 to my ears.

So at the moment I am very pleased with the Voyd.

I notice there is another one for sale on AoS and if you are in the market for another TT I would seriously consider it.

and here is mine:-

https://i1339.photobucket.com/albums/o708/AJSki2fly/IMG_1034_zpsrpzyjzz2.jpeg

https://i1339.photobucket.com/albums/o708/AJSki2fly/IMG_1033_zpsy8zrbpd0.jpeg

[Mr. C]

You should be fine for advice Adrian as one of the originators of these decks lives in Tavistock, decent chap as well.

[Spectral Morn]

Ensemble run a Voyd Reference with their modifications at shows, with a Graham Phantom arm and I was very surprised and delighted how it sounded when I heard it at NAS 2011, simply stunning. I had a Valdi once and an SME 309 on it sounded crap, compared to the Rega 300 I had on it before, so I wonder about the SME 5 on a big Voyd. You like it and that is all that matters.

I miss the Valdi, wish I had never sold it and the Rata Toralyte stand I had for it. A big Voyd is an itch I too would like to scratch but I suspect I never will get the chance.

[AJSki2fly]

You should be fine for advice Adrian as one of the originators of these decks lives in Tavistock, decent chap as well.

Funny enough just before I purchased the Voyd I tried out a cartridge from Guy in Tavistock and mentioned I was thinking of buying a Voyd, he has been very helpful and offers to help if I needed it setting it up, a lovely chap.

[AJSki2fly]

Ensemble run a Voyd Reference with their modifications at shows, with a Graham Phantom arm and I was very surprised and delighted how it sounded when I heard it at NAS 2011, simply stunning. I had a Valdi once and an SME 309 on it sounded crap, compared to the Rega 300 I had on it before, so I wonder about the SME 5 on a big Voyd. You like it and that is all that matters.

I miss the Valdi, wish I had never sold it and the Rata Toralyte stand I had for it. A big Voyd is an itch I too would like to scratch but I suspect I never will get the chance.

My arm is a hybrid SME IV so not quite a V. From what I have read back in the day I was considered the IV worked well with the Voyd but V not as good. I have also been recommended to try a Koetsu Red with it as that is supposed to sing.

[bumpy]

Always loved Voyd turntables. Looking at your DAC I would say the analogue front end will now sound vastly superior to the digital.

[AJSki2fly]

Always loved Voyd turntables. Looking at your DAC I would say the analogue front end will now sound vastly superior to the digital.

Interesting, do you not like the Beresford Caiman Seg DAC then. I and others find it rather good and IMO good value for money?

[bumpy]

Interesting, do you not like the Beresford Caiman Seg DAC then. I and others find it rather good and IMO good value for money?

Its good at its price point, but plenty of room for improvement to bring the digital side up to match the analogue which it seems you have invested good money in. How does it compare now to the analogue?

[AJSki2fly]

Its good at its price point, but plenty of room for improvement to bring the digital side up to match the analogue which it seems you have invested good money in. How does it compare now to the analogue?

Well I would say it does a pretty good job, but for want of the right words to describe I would say it does not have the same level of depth or naturalness that the analogue side has. I listen to all types of music, including, folk, classical(from medieval through to romantic/modern), Jazz and a huge array of rock and pop. The analogue side seems to have a more transparent and open feel about it compared to the digital side, although some CD's and Flac files do sound very good.

I did spend quite a bit of time recently re-ripping my CD's to m4a and with the Flac files I have over 1100 albums, mainly for ease of access on a NAS, and another 5K plus tracks at mainly 320kbps mp3(which I tend not to listen to), I also stream quite a bit using Audirvana and Tidal. I went back to analogue about 4 years ago as I became disillusioned with digital and virtually had stopped listening to music at home as I found digital generally a dissatisfying experience. My issue with digital is that it seems to be a bit of lottery in terms of the quality of digital files and how/what they were derived and the resulting listening experience. Yes I agree a good digital recording at least at CD quality with a good system can sound fantastic, unfortunately with re-issues and re-mixes that is not always the case across all genres, certainly with music recorded pre mid 90's. Also we have the other issues with a lot of more recent music suffering from the so called loudness wars where it is digitally mixed raising bass and mids to enhance it for the many that listen with in ear headphones or poorer quality equipment. The result being the loss of dynamic range and to me much of the listening experience. To be honest you also have to be very careful with recent re-issues of vinyl as well as there is a tendency for music companies to just use the digital re-mixes so the same problem occurs, driven by profit I suspect rather than SQ.

So I tend to buy vinyl now, either carefully selected re-releases or new recordings using the original masters, or I buy second hand original pressings in as good condition as I can find. Occasionally I get a duff re-issue and then I sell it on and find a good original one. Just for your information I went fully digital in the early 80's and was an early adopter and lost all my analogue side totally and regularly purchased CD's and had a Meridian 508 CD player (highly thought of at the time). As time went on grew to regret it as I became more aware of the issues around digital music reproduction. Having worked in IT since the late 70's I had been keen to move with the times and thought I understood the benefits of digital music certainly portability, ease of use and access and so on, but as for sound quality I am not so sure now. For me there seem to be too many variables with which the music industry can use and manipulate in the digital medium, I am just waiting for the next announcement of the new super duper ultra-high quality digital file, that everyone will have to have to replace their existing collection, obviously at a price. :D

[chris@panteg]

Well after much thought and discussion with some well respected Audiophiles on here I decided some weeks ago to scratch an itch and to try another turntable. I had ended up with a list of 6 from these helpful chaps. The 6 listed below being considered great VFM and giving very good results, even when compared to some very expensive modern gear.

"1. Voyd great dynamics and bass slams and openness

2. Technics sp10 for sense of space and foundation and great imaging

3. Garrard 401 audio grail with a russ collinson cherry plinth prefferably with sme m12r or the timestep arm this would give superb grip over the music and superb timing with real good bass. the sme Iv will also do well

4. Nottingham analogue hyperspace for sence of grip with great bass and speed to boot.

5. Townshend rock reference hard to find but a real stunner in terms of performance i dont think you will find one but worth a mention.

6. Alphason sonata hr100 mcs fantastic midrange and vibrancy brilliant bass performance"

So after some thought and investigations, and further discussions with the guys I opted to try and find a Voyd that was as good as I could find, my limit was £2K so this ruled out a Voyd 0.5 or Reference. Fortune must have been on my side as I stumbled across a NM one with a dealer in Copenhagen, Henrik had taken it in part exchange. After a couple of phone calls and emails a good price was agreed and Henrik said he would hold it for me for a few weeks whilst I got the cash together. The deck had been tested by them and it was running very close to 33.33 and with very low wow/flutter. The only issue was that it did not have an SME arm board. It was decided to make one initially from a cut down Linn/SME arm board (on ebay for £39) it has worked and the arm/cartridge are correctly aligned, but i am not happy with it for the long term and am having one made by Steve at Magna Audio.

In advance I had made up a short phono stage lead using Cardas cable with a right angle SME plug on one end and a male pug on the other, this was because my Furutech lead is not very flexible and I wanted to avoid impeding the Voyd suspension. Prior to sending the deck Henrik had advised me to order a replacement drive belt, he had ordered one but it had not turned up, the original having seen better days, so i ordered one that I thought was correct.

Last Monday the Voyd arrived very carefully packaged, and after carefully getting it out onto the kitchen table I set about setting up the SME arm and levelling and testing the deck. I fitted the new drive belt and to my surprise it now ran 1% fast, I tried the old one but as Henrik said it had seen better days and kept coming off, the rubber had stretched. This episode set off a long investigation into Voyd belts and I have since found out it is critical to get one of the right thickness, apart from length, for the model of Voyd deck, mine needing one that is 0.5mm thick, the one I had being about 7.5mm. To some this will not make any sense, and it did not to me, but trust me the thicker the belt is the faster it will run. Anyway I have found a supply of the correct belts which should arrive early next week.

After a couple of careful hours setting up I put it in position in the lounge and plugged up and put a record on only to find I had only one channel:doh:. So down it came to inspect the home made lead, as I did so horror of horrors a pin from the SME was still in the end of the right angle plug, how this happened I do not know, it just failed at its base. So onto the phone to SME, and a trip to the post office on Tuesday morning, and off it went for repair. To my shock and delight the SME arm turned up on Friday afternoon fixed and me £93 lighter, but what great service from SME. So yesterday I got it up and working and had an initial listen and thought this sounds different.

Today I have sat down and listened to 18 test tracks that I am very familiar with and use to review new gear or system changes, have just done this these are my thoughts on the Voyd.

The Voyd has great depth of sound in the bass and mid-range, and sounds very engaging and dynamic, it gives a lovely musical rendition. There is no edginess, everything sounds as it should, punchy and dynamic with lots of detail. On certain tracks long notes just seemed to hang in the air. I also noticed more detail, I could hear aspects of the recording environment with echo evident room acoustics. The top end is very good as well, no harshness noticed from any instruments or vocals. Overall it just all sounds right, very impressive, a very well balance musical sound with superb dynamics and detail. By the way the isolation is great no microphonics from the cartridge even when playing a record when you tap the shelf it sits on. I would score it a very strong 9/10 for its overall performance, in fact its more of a 9.5/10 to my ears.

So at the moment I am very pleased with the Voyd.

I notice there is another one for sale on AoS and if you are in the market for another TT I would seriously consider it.

and here is mine:-

https://i1339.photobucket.com/albums/o708/AJSki2fly/IMG_1034_zpsrpzyjzz2.jpeg

https://i1339.photobucket.com/albums/o708/AJSki2fly/IMG_1033_zpsy8zrbpd0.jpeg

Very nice, I know these decks well, I used to have a. 5 many years ago and as it happens a few days ago I've bought another Voyd in the exact same finish as your deck, I should be getting it on or about Wednesday or Thursday, I've been using a modified techy for over ten years and have been happy with it.
But I just had to have another Voyd, looking forward to it though I think the psu will probably need a service, I intend to mount my SME 309 on it and see how it goes.
That leaves me with two technics decks, one of which will probably have to go.

[AJSki2fly]

Very nice, I know these decks well, I used to have a. 5 many years ago and as it happens a few days ago I've bought another Voyd in the exact same finish as your deck, I should be getting it on or about Wednesday or Thursday, I've been using a modified techy for over ten years and have been happy with it.
But I just had to have another Voyd, looking forward to it though I think the psu will probably need a service, I intend to mount my SME 309 on it and see how it goes.
That leaves me with two technics decks, one of which will probably have to go.

Thanks, I am enjoying listening to music with it very much, it all just sounds just right. Nothing pushy or over-emphasised just detailed, open with great bass and mid-range, just as I was told it would be. So I am very pleased.

I think it was quite common to use SME 309's on them, so should be OK. If you need an arm board Steve at Magna Audio can help, he is on AoS.Let me know how you get on and find yours.

[chris@panteg]

Thanks, I am enjoying listening to music with it very much, it all just sounds just right. Nothing pushy or over-emphasised just detailed, open with great bass and mid-range, just as I was told it would be. So I am very pleased.

I think it was quite common to use SME 309's on them, so should be OK. If you need an arm board Steve at Magna Audio can help, he is on AoS.Let me know how you get on and find yours.

Fortunately it already has an SME armboard fitted, I will keep you updated as to how I get on with it, really looking forward to seeing and hearing it now.

[chris@panteg]

I did have an SME 310 on my previous voyd, it was a good combination.

[AJSki2fly]

I did have an SME 310 on my previous voyd, it was a good combination.

That’s interesting, was it a tight fit to get it setup right?



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Vrajbasi]

I have had several Voyd turntables the first one around 1988, they are superb in the way they do many things. I have also owned around three reference Voyd's, i have used several arms with the voyd turntables inc Graham Phantoms, sme series V,s fidelity research fr64 and the various helius tonearms also a modified saec 407/23. I liked the saec quite alot did not really like the Phantom on the Voyd, the sme V rewired did sound good with my Audio note io ltd, recently I heard a friends Voyd 0.5 with a Sme V and Lfd Vipor arm lead with a etsuro Cobolt cartridge sound superb it was very open with a deep wide soundstage with a great deal of solidity in the bass highly musical combination for sensible money in my opinion.

[chris@panteg]

That’s interesting, was it a tight fit to get it setup right?



Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

It seemed to be straight forward enough, Kevin Scott of Definitive Audio fitted it and set it up.
It had an Aluminium construction where as my current 309 is magnesium.

[chris@panteg]

I should add that I was using a cartridge man music maker mk1 at the time, never used a moving coil cartridge with my previous Voyd.
So this time round it will be interesting.

[Vrajbasi]

It seemed to be straight forward enough, Kevin Scott of Definitive Audio fitted it and set it up.
It had an Aluminium construction where as my current 309 is magnesium.

In my opinion the aluminium 309, 310 and 312 were much nicer than the magnesium versions, I once heard a prototype aluminium series V it was sublime.

[chris@panteg]

In my opinion the aluminium 309, 310 and 312 were much nicer than the magnesium versions, I once heard a prototype aluminium series V it was sublime.

I've heard others say that, but I have to say that the magnesium 309 has been excellent on the Technics, I will see what it's like on the Voyd, I may decide to try something else, was looking at Audionote arms and origin live but that can wait.

[Spectral Morn]

It seemed to be straight forward enough, Kevin Scott of Definitive Audio fitted it and set it up.
It had an Aluminium construction where as my current 309 is magnesium.

In my view the best version of that arm, but others mileage has varied.

[bumpy]

I went back to analogue about 4 years ago as I became disillusioned with digital and virtually had stopped listening to music at home as I found digital generally a dissatisfying experience.

I had a similar experience some years ago. Digital sound just had little soul and after an hour or so I was getting up to do something else. Instead of going back to vinyl I pushed on with the digital experience. The secret seems to rest in the DAC and overall power supplies. Now I cant wait to listen to my system.


I think the problem is that people, including me, assume that excellent digital sound can be done on the cheap. This is not the case, so be prepared to spend the same on the DAC as a good record deck.

Good luck Chris

[Vrajbasi]

In my view the best version of that arm, but others mileage has varied.

By far the best version I recently purchased a brand new 312 aluminium it was a special build only 10 were made many years after the 312 had ceased production and sme moved to the 312s, the special build 312 aluminium has upgraded bearings for the v-12 and extra high tolerances, by far this is the finest sme arm I actually own way better then my V-12. I recently purchased another s/h 312 it is not quite as good. I personally alot of the music is lost in the the later magnesium arm tubes having said that I have always found sme arms to be a bit inconsistent and not two sound the same. I have heard series v's sound flat and boring and another sound vibrant with lots of air and energy. There are alot of parts in a sme arms and small details when manufacturing are going to make a difference I suppose. Arms like the graham phantom elite will be far easier to build with some level of consistency due to being a unipivot design.

[chris@panteg]

Interesting, at the moment my 309 magnesium sounds dynamic, vibrant and exciting to listen to on the Technics, plenty of air with an almost explosive quality to dynamics, I think a lot of this is down to the synergy with the deck, I feel they work well together, how will the 309 match with the Voyd? I'm going to be open minded about this if I feel it isn't quite right I'll make a change.

[Vrajbasi]

Interesting, at the moment my 309 magnesium sounds dynamic, vibrant and exciting to listen to on the Technics, plenty of air with an almost explosive quality to dynamics, I think a lot of this is down to the synergy with the deck, I feel they work well together, how will the 309 match with the Voyd? I'm going to be open minded about this if I feel it isn't quite right I'll make a change.

Personally I think it will be a good match, the most interesting thing is that another 309 may sound different. Generally the spring balance of the V sounds a bit darker and have been told way harder to adjust when manufacturing hence why many preffer the series iv and the static balance will provide a different set of virtues. Again I have heard differences between two series iv's all a mine field the crazy world of vinyl replay. I have heard a 309 on a Voyd sound great in the past, I like the saec arms on the voyd personally but that would be a mine field to get a nice example the Glanz 9" is also a wonderful match.

[AJSki2fly]

In my opinion the aluminium 309, 310 and 312 were much nicer than the magnesium versions, I once heard a prototype aluminium series V it was sublime.

With respect to the Voyd and arm combo the dealer in Denmark, (lydprodukter.dk) Henrik has given me excellent service and help, he set up the deck to demo it with an Acoustic Signature TA-1000 http://acoustic-signature.com/en/tone-arms/ta-1000/ and Benz Micro cartridge (I think) he said this worked superbly and was surprised himself how good it was, very open and natural he said. Bear in mind that they do sell some very good and expensive hifi so he should know his stuff. I have also been advised by a trusted UK dealer that this arm is also very good even though not particularly expensive. So an arm to consider if an SME is out of reach, for an alternative.

[Spectral Morn]

Personally I think it will be a good match, the most interesting thing is that another 309 may sound different. Generally the spring balance of the V sounds a bit darker and have been told way harder to adjust when manufacturing hence why many preffer the series iv and the static balance will provide a different set of virtues. Again I have heard differences between two series iv's all a mine field the crazy world of vinyl replay. I have heard a 309 on a Voyd sound great in the past, I like the saec arms on the voyd personally but that would be a mine field to get a nice example the Glanz 9" is also a wonderful match.

Nari always interesting to read your insights, a lot you say isn't common knowledge.

[take5]

I owned a 3 motor Voyd about 6 years ago. It came to me with an SME 5 on it.

Guy S. was also helpful to me in getting it up and running.

It sounded fantastic and was probably my favourite of all the many turntables I had during that period.

I hope you enjoy your new Voyd. It is a really great turntable.

[Nonnegativ]

With respect to the Voyd and arm combo the dealer in Denmark, (lydprodukter.dk) Henrik has given me excellent service and help, he set up the deck to demo it with an Acoustic Signature TA-1000 http://acoustic-signature.com/en/tone-arms/ta-1000/ and Benz Micro cartridge (I think) he said this worked superbly and was surprised himself how good it was, very open and natural he said. Bear in mind that they do sell some very good and expensive hifi so he should know his stuff. I have also been advised by a trusted UK dealer that this arm is also very good even though not particularly expensive. So an arm to consider if an SME is out of reach, for an alternative.

From a local perspective I can only agree in your assessment of Henrik. He is the owner of the distribution company exoticaudio.dk and and sells through lydprodukter.dk. A glance at the products he offers shows an excellent taste and I have newer heard anything negative about him (except that it is expensive stuff..). If he is positive towards a tonearm he doesn't import and sells it sure means something.

No affirmation etc.

[chris@panteg]

I owned a 3 motor Voyd about 6 years ago. It came to me with an SME 5 on it.

Guy S. was also helpful to me in getting it up and running.

It sounded fantastic and was probably my favourite of all the many turntables I had during that period.

I hope you enjoy your new Voyd. It is a really great turntable.

I agree, I've always regretted selling mine, and now one came up for sale and I just fancied getting another, though I have been happy with my modded technics.

[Vrajbasi]

Nari always interesting to read your insights, a lot you say isn't common knowledge.

I try my best and listen as much as possible, plus I have a dear friend who is not only a esteemed dealer but a serious collector of tonearms and turntables most likely the biggest collection in the world.

[AJSki2fly]

I owned a 3 motor Voyd about 6 years ago. It came to me with an SME 5 on it.

Guy S. was also helpful to me in getting it up and running.

It sounded fantastic and was probably my favourite of all the many turntables I had during that period.

I hope you enjoy your new Voyd. It is a really great turntable.

Thanks Brian, very kind off you.

[AJSki2fly]

From a local perspective I can only agree in your assessment of Henrik. He is the owner of the distribution company exoticaudio.dk and and sells through lydprodukter.dk. A glance at the products he offers shows an excellent taste and I have newer heard anything negative about him (except that it is expensive stuff..). If he is positive towards a tonearm he doesn't import and sells it sure means something.

No affirmation etc.
Yes Henrik is a great chap, a true gentleman.

[AJSki2fly]

Nari always interesting to read your insights, a lot you say isn't common knowledge.

I completely agree, Nari has been extremely helpful in advising me in my turntable choice, even though we have never met he went out of his way to answer of my questions, he has a vast experience of a lot of audio equipment. He and our mutual friend, Mik, both gave me invaluable advice, they listened to what I hoped to achieve within my limited budget and gave me honest opinions. Their time and effort assisting me is very much appreciated by me.

Thank You Nari & Mik

[chris@panteg]

Adrian, the Voyd will give you many years of pleasure, hope you enjoy it.

[Vrajbasi]

I completely agree, Nari has been extremely helpful in advising me in my turntable choice, even though we have never met he went out of his way to answer of my questions, he has a vast experience of a lot of audio equipment. He and our mutual friend, Mik, both gave me invaluable advice, they listened to what I hoped to achieve within my limited budget and gave me honest opinions. Their time and effort assisting me is very much appreciated by me.

Thank You Nari & Mik

Thank you for the kind words, I have spent years listening and playing around with Kit alot of would never ever have been possible without Mik, he has extensive knowledge and access to some of the finest and rarest turntables, tonearms and cartridges available and continues the quest. I visited him recently and and as always am shocked to what he comes up with.

I am sure you will have many years of musical pleasure from the Voyd, maybe only experimenting with tonearms and cartridges. I actually like the Sme arm on the Voyd so you might never wish to change but its hard for any of us to stay sill once we have the bug.

I listened to a Voyd Reference last night and again its a big leap forward with its three huge papst motors, you feel a sense of scale and dynamics that many decks lack, tonearm was with a Graham Phantom elite and a Etsuro Bordeaux and it was very enjoyable indeed. It shows that the Voyd designs continue to engage listeners and in many ways are quite unique in there presentation.

[dwhistance]

Adrian,

If you fancy trying a Helius Orion Mk1 on your Voyd let me know - I have one sitting on a shelf here that I bought to use with my Io Ltd but haven't tried yet as I ended up using the Io with my FR64fx instead. Way back when the Voyd and Orion were a classic match, generally with an Io of some sort.

David Whistance

[AJSki2fly]

Adrian,

If you fancy trying a Helius Orion Mk1 on your Voyd let me know - I have one sitting on a shelf here that I bought to use with my Io Ltd but haven't tried yet as I ended up using the Io with my FR64fx instead. Way back when the Voyd and Orion were a classic match, generally with an Io of some sort.

David Whistance

PM sent

[AJSki2fly]

Well a quick update, I decided to check the the deck/platter was spot on level, and that I had the arm just right.

I am using a temporary arm board at the moment and it was very hard to get it right, I used a protractor and worked out I was 1.5mm out on the measurement from spindle to centre of arm pivot, so I adjust and re-checked. The platter was slightly off level and after 10 minutes had it spot on, which I checked again when I placed it back on its shelf.

So I put on some music and the result is even more openness and detail. Classical music in particular has come to life, and May Blitz sounded astounding, each note from the bass and guitar were clear, detailed and precise, an amazing turntable.

[chris@panteg]

Well a quick update, I decided to check the the deck/platter was spot on level, and that I had the arm just right.

I am using a temporary arm board at the moment and it was very hard to get it right, I used a protractor and worked out I was 1.5mm out on the measurement from spindle to centre of arm pivot, so I adjust and re-checked. The platter was slightly off level and after 10 minutes had it spot on, which I checked again when I placed it back on its shelf.

So I put on some music and the result is even more openness and detail. Classical music in particular has come to life, and May Blitz sounded astounding, each note from the bass and guitar were clear, detailed and precise, an amazing turntable.

Well done, care in set up is worthwhile, I should be getting my Voyd tomorrow, looking forward to it.

[Vrajbasi]

Well done, care in set up is worthwhile, I should be getting my Voyd tomorrow, looking forward to it.

Look forward to the update, what generation of voyd are you getting there are sonic differences for sure and no two sounded identical, I liked the nextel top plate version the best with the smaller boxed psu this was quite a late version others preferred the vibrant sounding early versions. Which version are you getting.

The Voyd references had even bigger differences between versions different motors and big differences in psu,s also spring tensions. There is also a rare two box psu version out there some where it was quite a beast, then we have the audio note variants.

[chris@panteg]

[QUOTE=Vrajbasi;1085907]Look forward to the update, what generation of voyd are you getting there are sonic differences for sure and no two sounded identical, I liked the nextel top plate version the best with the smaller boxed psu this was quite a late version others preferred the vibrant sounding early versions. Which version are you getting.

I think it's a mid period version with a white facia psu around 1989-90.

[Vrajbasi]

[QUOTE=Vrajbasi;1085907]Look forward to the update, what generation of voyd are you getting there are sonic differences for sure and no two sounded identical, I liked the nextel top plate version the best with the smaller boxed psu this was quite a late version others preferred the vibrant sounding early versions. Which version are you getting.

I think it's a mid period version with a white facia psu around 1989-90.

The white/light grey facia was quite early there were two later versions than this. I remember my first voyd was a white facia version cost me £700 brand new in those days from a dealership called sound room in south london. I remember the excitement to get the unit home with a cylene and a IO. I had impulse H1 loudspeakers back then with massive ear 549 amps John sherne who later made his own amps sold them to me he was working for EAR back then.

[AJSki2fly]

Well done, care in set up is worthwhile, I should be getting my Voyd tomorrow, looking forward to it.

Take your time setting up, but you probably know that anyway as I think you’ve owned one before. Let us know how it performs.

[GJO]

[QUOTE=chris@panteg;1085929]

The white/light grey facia was quite early there were two later versions than this. I remember my first voyd was a white facia version cost me £700 brand new in those days from a dealership called sound room in south london. I remember the excitement to get the unit home with a cylene and a IO. I had impulse H1 loudspeakers back then with massive ear 549 amps John sherne who later made his own amps sold them to me he was working for EAR back then.

I remember Gary Burley,did a PX deal with him for a swap for my Valdi to a Voyd Cyalene set up,will never forget him delivering my H2's dressed in a full dinner suit,strange fellow.

Good to hear people still enjoy Voyd's after all these years.

[Spectral Morn]

[QUOTE=Vrajbasi;1085932]

I remember Gary Burley,did a PX deal with him for a swap for my Valdi to a Voyd Cyalene set up,will never forget him delivering my H2's dressed in a full dinner suit,strange fellow.

Good to hear people still enjoy Voyd's after all these years.

John was a real character, and his products were nice.

[Vrajbasi]

[QUOTE=Vrajbasi;1085932]

I remember Gary Burley,did a PX deal with him for a swap for my Valdi to a Voyd Cyalene set up,will never forget him delivering my H2's dressed in a full dinner suit,strange fellow.

Good to hear people still enjoy Voyd's after all these years.

I remember the full dinner suit Gary was great to deal with and a real character indeed, did ellis his so called engineer set up your Voyd?. I remember the koi carp gary used to keep. I purchased a 3 voyd's of gary in the end and a Voyd reference. I remember he sold a huge system(for those days) to a guy by the name of dr sampson who featured in Hifi choice, the system featured the most amazing EAR preamp ever the very very rare g52 with 52 valves it was a monster gary was the only one in the world to sell one. Ear used to make real crazy bespoke esoteric products back then.

[Vrajbasi]

Take your time setting up, but you probably know that anyway as I think you’ve owned one before. Let us know how it performs.

Set up is crucial, I always liked the light harmonix record clamp on the voyd I tried so so many and found this one just sounded right never liked the still point one on the voyd too vibrant and seemed to make the treble harsh.

[GJO]

[QUOTE=GJO;1086024]

I remember the full dinner suit Gary was great to deal with and a real character indeed, did ellis his so called engineer set up your Voyd?. I remember the koi carp gary used to keep. I purchased a 3 voyd's of gary in the end and a Voyd reference. I remember he sold a huge system(for those days) to a guy by the name of dr sampson who featured in Hifi choice, the system featured the most amazing EAR preamp ever the very very rare g52 with 52 valves it was a monster gary was the only one in the world to sell one. Ear used to make real crazy bespoke esoteric products back then.

Ah yes I guess it would have been Ellis,he was pretty useless,watching him trying to fit the two belts was comical,it would have been about the same time as the monster EAR pre,from memory it was a blingy gold colour.I used 519s with my H2's and did try an EAR 802 to replace my PS audio 4.6,but settled on a Finestra as it had a better phono stage.

I think my Voyd was used in the Hi Fi answers review as it had loads of sticky bits of foil added by the reviewer.

[chris@panteg]

[QUOTE=GJO;1086024]

I remember the full dinner suit Gary was great to deal with and a real character indeed, did ellis his so called engineer set up your Voyd?. I remember the koi carp gary used to keep. I purchased a 3 voyd's of gary in the end and a Voyd reference. I remember he sold a huge system(for those days) to a guy by the name of dr sampson who featured in Hifi choice, the system featured the most amazing EAR preamp ever the very very rare g52 with 52 valves it was a monster gary was the only one in the world to sell one. Ear used to make real crazy bespoke esoteric products back then.

I still have my copy of that hifi choice with Dr Sampsons system, it also has a full review of a Voyd. 5 reference, cyalene and IO by John Bamford. 1989.

[Vrajbasi]

[QUOTE=Vrajbasi;1086040]

I still have my copy of that hifi choice with Dr Sampsons system, it also has a full review of a Voyd. 5 reference, cyalene and IO by John Bamford. 1989.

I would love to see that issue I heard the system and it was pretty interesting back then, what turntable was he using that time? I heard it with the rock reference and previously a voyd reference.

[Vrajbasi]

[QUOTE=Vrajbasi;1086040]

Ah yes I guess it would have been Ellis,he was pretty useless,watching him trying to fit the two belts was comical,it would have been about the same time as the monster EAR pre,from memory it was a blingy gold colour.I used 519s with my H2's and did try an EAR 802 to replace my PS audio 4.6,but settled on a Finestra as it had a better phono stage.

I think my Voyd was used in the Hi Fi answers review as it had loads of sticky bits of foil added by the reviewer.

Ellis in reality ruined my voyd bless him, I had to get a replacement from guy adams at the time. The blingy ear g52 and g 88 were in a different class to what ear do today.

The sticky bits were the peter belt creations I remember them well. Hifi was so much more fun back then and more people could aspire to good kit, now one has to be so much more careful with lots of very expensive items that do not quite cut the mustard.

I liked the finestra I had one for a while until it went wrong and ended up using a counterpoint sa11 and sa9 phono they were lovely. Nice to see you are using a conti Basis I had quite a few of those over the years starting with a early lead plattered debut gold which sounded much nicer than the later brass version.

[Spectral Morn]

[QUOTE=GJO;1086054]

Ellis in reality ruined my voyd bless him, I had to get a replacement from guy adams at the time. The blingy ear g52 and g 88 were in a different class to what ear do today.

The sticky bits were the peter belt creations I remember them well. Hifi was so much more fun back then and more people could aspire to good kit, now one has to be so much more careful with lots of very expensive items that do not quite cut the mustard.

I liked the finestra I had one for a while until it went wrong and ended up using a counterpoint sa11 and sa9 phono they were lovely. Nice to see you are using a conti Basis I had quite a few of those over the years starting with a early lead plattered debut gold which sounded much nicer than the later brass version.

EC Audio, I still use a Pandoras Box, I find hooking a PC into it helps the sound re using a PC as a source.

[chris@panteg]

[QUOTE=chris@panteg;1086062]

I would love to see that issue I heard the system and it was pretty interesting back then, what turntable was he using that time? I heard it with the rock reference and previously a voyd reference.

He had a Voyd + with the lexan platter and ref bearing, interestingly the psu looks identical to the one I've just bought, which has just arrived, going to remove my 309 later.

[Vrajbasi]

[QUOTE=Vrajbasi;1086125]

He had a Voyd + with the lexan platter and ref bearing, interestingly the psu looks identical to the one I've just bought, which has just arrived, going to remove my 309 later.

He later had a reference Voyd and then a Townshend rock reference with mission Mechanic tonearm

[chris@panteg]

A quick update about my Voyd, sadly it doesn't work at 45 or 33 after communication with the seller, it has to go back alas.
I think the problem is that the psu needs a major service, but the seller did list it as in good working order.

[Nonnegativ]

Damm...Maybe you can convince Henrik to have SJS Acoustics in UK look at your PSU (at his expense off course).

SJS Acoustics did a rebuild of my Voyd PSU - great job.

[AJSki2fly]

Damm...Maybe you can convince Henrik to have SJS Acoustics in UK look at your PSU (at his expense off course).

SJS Acoustics did a rebuild of my Voyd PSU - great job.

I think your confused I purchased mine from Henrik, the other chap got his from someone else in UK I think.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[chris@panteg]

A further update, have now agreed with the seller a partial refund and I will keep the Voyd and I am going to ask Simon to give it a service, a good friend of mine also has a Voyd with a refurbished psu, he's bringing it round tomorrow to test it out on mine, I think it's just the psu that needs attention as the motors seem fine, they haven't seized up.

[AJSki2fly]

A further update, have now agreed with the seller a partial refund and I will keep the Voyd and I am going to ask Simon to give it a service, a good friend of mine also has a Voyd with a refurbished psu, he's bringing it round tomorrow to test it out on mine, I think it's just the psu that needs attention as the motors seem fine, they haven't seized up.

Keep us up to date Chris and good luck, I’m sure your get it sorted.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[chris@panteg]

Keep us up to date Chris and good luck, I’m sure your get it sorted.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thanks very much, yes I will, to be honest I expected that this might be the case, I was a bit dubious that it could be in good working order after 30 years with no service? I think the seller just doesn't know much about these decks, he's admitted as much, I'm determined to get it running and to enjoy playing some vinyl on it.

[Nonnegativ]

I think your confused I purchased mine from Henrik, the other chap got his from someone else in UK I think.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Your correct :doh:

[chris@panteg]

A really good positive update, my friend John brought round his voyd psu and it works perfectly sounding magnificent.
It really was a treat, I'd forgotten just how good these decks are, played a few albums of pop then a Mozart clarinet concerto K622.

It sounded fabulous, so it's just the psu that needs attention.
Oh and it looks so good too in the rich mahogany, can't wait to get it sorted now.

[Spectral Morn]

A really good positive update, my friend John brought round his voyd psu and it works perfectly sounding magnificent.
It really was a treat, I'd forgotten just how good these decks are, played a few albums of pop then a Mozart clarinet concerto K622.

It sounded fabulous, so it's just the psu that needs attention.
Oh and it looks so good too in the rich mahogany, can't wait to get it sorted now.

Good news :)

[Vrajbasi]

A really good positive update, my friend John brought round his voyd psu and it works perfectly sounding magnificent.
It really was a treat, I'd forgotten just how good these decks are, played a few albums of pop then a Mozart clarinet concerto K622.

It sounded fabulous, so it's just the psu that needs attention.
Oh and it looks so good too in the rich mahogany, can't wait to get it sorted now.

Great to here, should not be too difficult to get it sorted. When buying older gear one always expects this sort of thing. The voyd is a great buy when you look at one has to spend on a decent deck new these days. I have just agreed a purchase of a audio note version of a Voyd reference just to add to the collection going to get it today and will mount a 9" glanz to start off with have a few arms knocking around.

[chris@panteg]

Great to here, should not be too difficult to get it sorted. When buying older gear one always expects this sort of thing. The voyd is a great buy when you look at one has to spend on a decent deck new these days. I have just agreed a purchase of a audio note version of a Voyd reference just to add to the collection going to get it today and will mount a 9" glanz to start off with have a few arms knocking around.

Wow, a reference with a Glanz, that will sound a bit special, Pete, I should coco has an Audionote Reference version of the Voyd.

[chris@panteg]

Good news :)

Thanks, I was hoping it would be just the psu, I was pretty confident that the motors were fine.

[AJSki2fly]

A really good positive update, my friend John brought round his voyd psu and it works perfectly sounding magnificent.
It really was a treat, I'd forgotten just how good these decks are, played a few albums of pop then a Mozart clarinet concerto K622.

It sounded fabulous, so it's just the psu that needs attention.
Oh and it looks so good too in the rich mahogany, can't wait to get it sorted now.

That's really good news Chris, hopefully the fix for the PSU will not be too much and you will be all set. :)

[AJSki2fly]

The voyd is a great buy when you look at one has to spend on a decent deck new these days. I have just agreed a purchase of a audio note version of a Voyd reference just to add to the collection going to get it today and will mount a 9" glanz to start off with have a few arms knocking around.

sounds like I may have started something here.:);)

[chris@panteg]

That's really good news Chris, hopefully the fix for the PSU will not be too much and you will be all set. :)

Thanks and yes it was a joy to listen to this morning, I'm going to ask Simon of SJS to do the work on the psu.

[Vrajbasi]

I now have the Audio Note reference set up, I already own a Voyd reference which has been stored away just wanted to compare both as a matter of education. The Audio Note reference is nice not the last word in power and scale but I have plenty of other deck that pip it. The midrange is fantastic and works amazing with the glanz. I like owing more than one deck because each one has there own charm. Compared to my EMT 927 the Audio Note does is not as free flowing from what I am hearing and the bass is not as controlled but the midrange has greater texture with superb integration with the treble which lovely. I will continue to listen. I have 6 decks set up currently and love them all.

[chris@panteg]

I now have the Audio Note reference set up, I already own a Voyd reference which has been stored away just wanted to compare both as a matter of education. The Audio Note reference is nice not the last word in power and scale but I have plenty of other deck that pip it. The midrange is fantastic and works amazing with the glanz. I like owing more than one deck because each one has there own charm. Compared to my EMT 927 the Audio Note does is not as free flowing from what I am hearing and the bass is not as controlled but the midrange has greater texture with superb integration with the treble which lovely. I will continue to listen. I have 6 decks set up currently and love them all.

Wow that is some choice of decks , whish I had the space to have multiple turntables in my system.
How does the Audionote Reference compare with the original voyd reference?

[Vrajbasi]

Wow that is some choice of decks , whish I had the space to have multiple turntables in my system.
How does the Audionote Reference compare with the original voyd reference?

I dont have the Voyd Reference set up currently but will do over the weekend, from memory the Audionote is faster more dynamic, while the Voyd is a bit darker and rounded and a bit sweeter. The Audionote is kind of explosive which is very interesting the Voyd Reference has a sense of plushness but maybe not quite the detail. You cant have everything they are both wonderful in there own way.

[take5]

I'm going to ask Simon of SJS to do the work on the psu.



That is a very good choice. He knows what he is doing with these. Particularly as he owns a Voyd Reference !!

He also has a .5 Voyd, although that may be gone now, I’m not sure

[chris@panteg]

I dont have the Voyd Reference set up currently but will do over the weekend, from memory the Audionote is faster more dynamic, while the Voyd is a bit darker and rounded and a bit sweeter. The Audionote is kind of explosive which is very interesting the Voyd Reference has a sense of plushness but maybe not quite the detail. You cant have everything they are both wonderful in there own way.


That is a very good choice. He knows what he is doing with these. Particularly as he owns a Voyd Reference !!

He also has a .5 Voyd, although that may be gone now, I’m not sure

Yes I know, I used to have a. 5 voyd, stupidly sold it.

[Vrajbasi]

Yes I know, I used to have a. 5 voyd, stupidly sold it.

What to do, we all make these mistakes the amount of times I have sold bits of gear and paid more to buy the same items back is crazy. Did you have the full blown 0.5 with the reference psu or the voyd with just reference bearing and platter.

[chris@panteg]

What to do, we all make these mistakes the amount of times I have sold things and paid more to buy things back is crazy.

Absolutely, but it's water under the bridge, I'm very happy with this voyd, it's staying for good.

[Vrajbasi]

Absolutely, but it's water under the bridge, I'm very happy with this voyd, it's staying for good.

Its a lovely deck that whole era had fantastic british turntables available like the Alphason sonata and symphony, Pink Triangle anniversary, Townshend Rock Reference. Its such a different market these days cost of production its just so much higher and the market very small and specialised making it remarkably hard and out of reach for most folks. We are now living in a era where 20k turntables look reasonable.

[chris@panteg]

Its a lovely deck that whole era had fantastic british turntables available like the Alphason sonata and symphony, Pink Triangle anniversary, Townshend Rock Reference. Its such a different market these days cost of production its just so much higher and the market very small and specialised making it remarkably hard and out of reach for most folks. We are now living in a era where 20k turntables look reasonable.

Do you know how much the new Audionote TT3 is going to retail at? I did hear a figure around the 6k mark but that may have changed and there must be a reference version.

[chris@panteg]

https://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu82/chrispanteg30/DSC_0208.jpg (http://s636.photobucket.com/user/chrispanteg30/media/DSC_0208.jpg.html)

[chris@panteg]

https://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu82/chrispanteg30/DSC_0211.jpg (https://s636.photobucket.com/user/chrispanteg30/media/DSC_0211.jpg.html)


looking good after a clean up.

[chris@panteg]

https://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu82/chrispanteg30/DSC_0210.jpg (http://s636.photobucket.com/user/chrispanteg30/media/DSC_0210.jpg.html)

[chris@panteg]

last one .

https://i636.photobucket.com/albums/uu82/chrispanteg30/DSC_0209.jpg (http://s636.photobucket.com/user/chrispanteg30/media/DSC_0209.jpg.html)

[AJSki2fly]

looking good after a clean up.

Looks very nice. Are you borrowing the Split Phase or has it to go off for repair? I see you have some Puresound gear, did you know that Guy Sargeant of Puresound was involved in making Voyd turntables, he is very helpful and useful info.

[chris@panteg]

Looks very nice. Are you borrowing the Split Phase or has it to go off for repair? I see you have some Puresound gear, did you know that Guy Sargeant of Puresound was involved in making Voyd turntables, he is very helpful and useful info.

Oh yes I know Guy, he's been great to deal with, I've met him a few times now, and yes I did know he was involved with the Voyd.
The split phase psu has to be boxed up and sent off, so I am unable to listen at the moment.

[AJSki2fly]

OK, I have sent you a PM about some stuff, although you may already be aware of it.

[chris@panteg]

OK, I have sent you a PM about some stuff, although you may already be aware of it.

Oh thanks.

[Vrajbasi]

Do you know how much the new Audionote TT3 is going to retail at? I did hear a figure around the 6k mark but that may have changed and there must be a reference version.

Not sure of the final price generally one has to always expect a higher rrp than anticipated. I owned the tt3 reference with the three box psu I never really liked it it was quite clinical and dry I preferred the voyd reference but you know how it is its about system matching as much as anything else.

Today I am listening to the Kodo Beat with airtangent and etsuro gold its a stunning combination really something. I have decided to sell the my Kronos pro turntable its too clinical and matter of fact for me. Its a well regarded turntable but not for me.

[Spectral Morn]

Oh yes I know Guy, he's been great to deal with, I've met him a few times now, and yes I did know he was involved with the Voyd.
The split phase psu has to be boxed up and sent off, so I am unable to listen at the moment.

Was he, thought it was Guy Adams :scratch: Certainly Guy S worked with Audio Innovations, during the same time period, but I was unaware that Guy S worked on Voyds.

[AJSki2fly]

Was he, thought it was Guy Adams :scratch: Certainly Guy S worked with Audio Innovations, during the same time period, but I was unaware that Guy S worked on Voyds.

Guy S I was told went to Uni with Guy Adams and was involved with Voyd early on and from what you say at Audio Innovations as well.

[chris@panteg]

Was he, thought it was Guy Adams :scratch: Certainly Guy S worked with Audio Innovations, during the same time period, but I was unaware that Guy S worked on Voyds.

Yes it was Guy Adams, Guy Sergeant was involved though only early on I believe, then went to Audio innovations.

[Spectral Morn]

I wasn't aware of that :)

[Vrajbasi]

The hifi industry and market and general owes alot to likes of Peter q, Guy seargent and guy adams. The market was generally dominated by the flat earth approach and the likes of american esoterica at the time. They educated the world in a different way of listening with the likes of low powered valve amps with high effeciency loudspeakers many great products have come about from this simple concept. Audio by design at the time all controlled by peter q produced some wonderful sounds that many could realistically aspire too all I can say is well done to all of them.

[chris@panteg]

I need to replace the hinges on my Voyd dust cover, was thinking that the Linn hinges would fit, does anyone have any ideas?

[fordy]

Also checking in as a recent Voyd owner. I’ve had umpteen turntables over the years including some really special classics like the SP10 in original Obsidian plinth and for a very long time, the Pink Triangle Anniversary. Anyway, it’s a very long list of TT’s, arms and carts but in my short exposure to the Voyd, I know it to be right up there already.

Having begun to work from home last year, I’d been building a modest office system and the finishing touch would be a turntable as all my vinyl had moved to the office during some house remodelling around the same time. The main system and turntable is still just about intact (which is fronted by a TW Acustic Raven AC3/Graham Phantom/FR64s) but I find myself in the office quite a lot and its such a joy to have access to all your vinyl on long office days.

Anyway, in choosing a turntable for a second system I initially thought it would be something very modest and probably based on one of the many unfinished TT projects languishing in the garage. Then I thought I needed to be realistic on the chances of one of those happening soon (although there was a spate of rash ordering of parts for a few days anyway). So I decided on trying to pick up a classic deck again. But what? I’ve had many LP12’s, Pinks, Thorens, Gyros, Techies and all manner of idlers before but felt I wanted to try something new again. I ruled out more idlers and things that need mounting as they inevitable end up as projects in the garage so a bouncy British belt drive in nice nick with a decent arm would be just the ticket and so it was I initially focussed on a Xerxes. Nothing suitable come up though and so I’d turned my attention to the Voyd.

I’d always wanted to try one as I knew several forum types that had settled on them, having been through many of the TT’s I’d previously had. Then one came up that was the right price and was local too so a couple of hours later I had it on the rack.

https://i.postimg.cc/fLgrmKvt/8-C170-DF6-98-F6-40-D6-87-FD-BE61147-C5-A4-D.jpg (https://postimg.cc/JDZxWjvM)

Classic 3 motor Voyd with a silver wired Helius Orion II. Set up wasn’t too difficult and it was soon singing away. I wasn’t happy with the counterweights on the tone arm as it was missing the heaviest weight of the three that should come with it but it was at least working and showing potential. I’d also fairly recently picked up an SME V and had an FR64fx sat in the cupboard looking for a purpose so decided to get Simon (SJS) to make some new armboards for me. And an excellent job he’s done too. Simon made new drawings from his collection of original armboards and has them CNC machined and anodised to a nice finish. Great work.

Despite some very mixed reviews on the Voyd/SME combo I needed somewhere to park my new SME, if only for a little while, so decided to go for it anyway. I mounted it last week and have to say I am pleasantly surprised.

https://i.postimg.cc/RF0YW8wx/82-E4-EF51-D753-46-A0-9949-96-B033-BA2-E34.jpg (https://postimg.cc/QBRmPf6f)

I don’t find it tonally grey at all (which the naysayers would have you believe) and its already a decent step up from the Orion for sure. More detail, more solid staging, better note decay etc. It sound very musical to my ears and looks the part too :-) Maybe its a good copy of the arm and it working well with the cart but either way I think its really very good so far.

https://i.postimg.cc/906gNQKc/B67-E62-B4-FE5-D-4-D75-A445-F1-C2-B5801492.jpg (https://postimg.cc/rR99DMqH)

I’m going to enjoy it for a few more weeks before the next steps in the Voyd adventure but lined up next is the FR64 armboard from Simon. I have the FR64fx in the wings and maybe the FR64s (from the Raven) to try and I read that these can make excellent combinations with the Voyd so I’m really looking forward to that. I’ve also landed a Helius Cyalene recently too which is likely to be the most natural partner in the end. No rush though.

Anyway, just thought I’d lend some support to the Voyd love in :-)

[Vrajbasi]

Also checking in as a recent Voyd owner. I’ve had umpteen turntables over the years including some really special classics like the SP10 in original Obsidian plinth and for a very long time, the Pink Triangle Anniversary. Anyway, it’s a very long list of TT’s, arms and carts but in my short exposure to the Voyd, I know it to be right up there already.

Having begun to work from home last year, I’d been building a modest office system and the finishing touch would be a turntable as all my vinyl had moved to the office during some house remodelling around the same time. The main system and turntable is still just about intact (which is fronted by a TW Acustic Raven AC3/Graham Phantom/FR64s) but I find myself in the office quite a lot and its such a joy to have access to all your vinyl on long office days.

Anyway, in choosing a turntable for a second system I initially thought it would be something very modest and probably based on one of the many unfinished TT projects languishing in the garage. Then I thought I needed to be realistic on the chances of one of those happening soon (although there was a spate of rash ordering of parts for a few days anyway). So I decided on trying to pick up a classic deck again. But what? I’ve had many LP12’s, Pinks, Thorens, Gyros, Techies and all manner of idlers before but felt I wanted to try something new again. I ruled out more idlers and things that need mounting as they inevitable end up as projects in the garage so a bouncy British belt drive in nice nick with a decent arm would be just the ticket and so it was I initially focussed on a Xerxes. Nothing suitable come up though and so I’d turned my attention to the Voyd.

I’d always wanted to try one as I knew several forum types that had settled on them, having been through many of the TT’s I’d previously had. Then one came up that was the right price and was local too so a couple of hours later I had it on the rack.

https://i.postimg.cc/fLgrmKvt/8-C170-DF6-98-F6-40-D6-87-FD-BE61147-C5-A4-D.jpg (https://postimg.cc/JDZxWjvM)

Classic 3 motor Voyd with a silver wired Helius Orion II. Set up wasn’t too difficult and it was soon singing away. I wasn’t happy with the counterweights on the tone arm as it was missing the heaviest weight of the three that should come with it but it was at least working and showing potential. I’d also fairly recently picked up an SME V and had an FR64fx sat in the cupboard looking for a purpose so decided to get Simon (SJS) to make some new armboards for me. And an excellent job he’s done too. Simon made new drawings from his collection of original armboards and has them CNC machined and anodised to a nice finish. Great work.

Despite some very mixed reviews on the Voyd/SME combo I needed somewhere to park my new SME, if only for a little while, so decided to go for it anyway. I mounted it last week and have to say I am pleasantly surprised.

https://i.postimg.cc/RF0YW8wx/82-E4-EF51-D753-46-A0-9949-96-B033-BA2-E34.jpg (https://postimg.cc/QBRmPf6f)

I don’t find it tonally grey at all (which the naysayers would have you believe) and its already a decent step up from the Orion for sure. More detail, more solid staging, better note decay etc. It sound very musical to my ears and looks the part too :-) Maybe its a good copy of the arm and it working well with the cart but either way I think its really very good so far.

https://i.postimg.cc/906gNQKc/B67-E62-B4-FE5-D-4-D75-A445-F1-C2-B5801492.jpg (https://postimg.cc/rR99DMqH)

I’m going to enjoy it for a few more weeks before the next steps in the Voyd adventure but lined up next is the FR64 armboard from Simon. I have the FR64fx in the wings and maybe the FR64s (from the Raven) to try and I read that these can make excellent combinations with the Voyd so I’m really looking forward to that. I’ve also landed a Helius Cyalene recently too which is likely to be the most natural partner in the end. No rush though.

Anyway, just thought I’d lend some support to the Voyd love in :-)

Nice example you have with the harder to find, last generation power supply

[AJSki2fly]

Also checking in as a recent Voyd owner. I’ve had umpteen turntables over the years including some really special classics like the SP10 in original Obsidian plinth and for a very long time, the Pink Triangle Anniversary. Anyway, it’s a very long list of TT’s, arms and carts but in my short exposure to the Voyd, I know it to be right up there already.

Having begun to work from home last year, I’d been building a modest office system and the finishing touch would be a turntable as all my vinyl had moved to the office during some house remodelling around the same time. The main system and turntable is still just about intact (which is fronted by a TW Acustic Raven AC3/Graham Phantom/FR64s) but I find myself in the office quite a lot and its such a joy to have access to all your vinyl on long office days.

Anyway, in choosing a turntable for a second system I initially thought it would be something very modest and probably based on one of the many unfinished TT projects languishing in the garage. Then I thought I needed to be realistic on the chances of one of those happening soon (although there was a spate of rash ordering of parts for a few days anyway). So I decided on trying to pick up a classic deck again. But what? I’ve had many LP12’s, Pinks, Thorens, Gyros, Techies and all manner of idlers before but felt I wanted to try something new again. I ruled out more idlers and things that need mounting as they inevitable end up as projects in the garage so a bouncy British belt drive in nice nick with a decent arm would be just the ticket and so it was I initially focussed on a Xerxes. Nothing suitable come up though and so I’d turned my attention to the Voyd.

I’d always wanted to try one as I knew several forum types that had settled on them, having been through many of the TT’s I’d previously had. Then one came up that was the right price and was local too so a couple of hours later I had it on the rack.

https://i.postimg.cc/fLgrmKvt/8-C170-DF6-98-F6-40-D6-87-FD-BE61147-C5-A4-D.jpg (https://postimg.cc/JDZxWjvM)

Classic 3 motor Voyd with a silver wired Helius Orion II. Set up wasn’t too difficult and it was soon singing away. I wasn’t happy with the counterweights on the tone arm as it was missing the heaviest weight of the three that should come with it but it was at least working and showing potential. I’d also fairly recently picked up an SME V and had an FR64fx sat in the cupboard looking for a purpose so decided to get Simon (SJS) to make some new armboards for me. And an excellent job he’s done too. Simon made new drawings from his collection of original armboards and has them CNC machined and anodised to a nice finish. Great work.

Despite some very mixed reviews on the Voyd/SME combo I needed somewhere to park my new SME, if only for a little while, so decided to go for it anyway. I mounted it last week and have to say I am pleasantly surprised.

https://i.postimg.cc/RF0YW8wx/82-E4-EF51-D753-46-A0-9949-96-B033-BA2-E34.jpg (https://postimg.cc/QBRmPf6f)

I don’t find it tonally grey at all (which the naysayers would have you believe) and its already a decent step up from the Orion for sure. More detail, more solid staging, better note decay etc. It sound very musical to my ears and looks the part too :-) Maybe its a good copy of the arm and it working well with the cart but either way I think its really very good so far.

https://i.postimg.cc/906gNQKc/B67-E62-B4-FE5-D-4-D75-A445-F1-C2-B5801492.jpg (https://postimg.cc/rR99DMqH)

I’m going to enjoy it for a few more weeks before the next steps in the Voyd adventure but lined up next is the FR64 armboard from Simon. I have the FR64fx in the wings and maybe the FR64s (from the Raven) to try and I read that these can make excellent combinations with the Voyd so I’m really looking forward to that. I’ve also landed a Helius Cyalene recently too which is likely to be the most natural partner in the end. No rush though.

Anyway, just thought I’d lend some support to the Voyd love in :-)

Looks good, interesting you find the SME better, I’m about to try a Helius Orion to compare to my SME IV. I notice you hav3 a Shelter cart I was looking at there 9000, how do you find them?

[fordy]

I like Shelters as they are not especially fussy MC’s and they are a lot of bang for the buck. I had a 501 before and it was a really good solid mid range MC. They don’t really have any major vices or stand out over exaggerated attributes and are very easy to live with. This one is a Model 90c which was a Japan only domestic market special for Audio Union, a large Japanese hifi chain. As far as I understand it with my pigeon Japanese, it’s a Harmony generator in an ali 901 style body, ie. it forgoes the carbon fibre body of the Harmony. I bought it NOS when I lived there. I’ve had it a long time now. It’s usually the cart I throw onto any new turntable, arm, phono stage or SUT combo as it’s just so compatible and tends to sound great on everything.

[chris@panteg]

Lovely Voyd, Fordy, you have the same finish plinth as mine, really like it.
I might have an opportunity for an SME V in a few weeks, depends on a few things.
But enjoy your Voyd it's a great turntable.

[sjs]

I met up with chris@panteg yesterday and now have his PSU, so hopefully it will be back up and running soon.

Fordy's deck with the SME V looks nice, and good to see the new arm board looking the part.

I started with a Valdi and Helius tonearm back in 1990, then had a Voyd with a Tabriz ZI around '92, then went onto the 0.5 Ref in around '94, which I still have, initially with an SME 309, later a Wilson Benesh Act 2, and currently an FR64fx, but I also have an Audio Note AN1-S arm, and an FR64s I need to try out. I have also have a Reference I picked up a few years ago which has an Audio Note Arm1-3 v2.

Carts have been Goldring Eroica, Audio Note Soara (still don't know what happened to that during the house move), and I now have an Ortofon MC70 anniversary (Expert Cart rebuilt), and an Audio Note IO-1

I prefer to remove the base from the Voyd and run them with cone feet directly on the wooden frame, and whilst I generally preferred 2 belts on the Voyd, the 0.5 and Ref seem to work better with 1. As AJSki2Fly discovered, getting everything absolutely level also pays off.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/vgarqdvoucuinfn/Voyd%20Ref.jpg


https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/jtjjvmedprguoj9/Voyd-0.5-FR64fx.jpg

[AJSki2fly]

I met up with chris@panteg yesterday and now have his PSU, so hopefully it will be back up and running soon.

Fordy's deck with the SME V looks nice, and good to see the new arm board looking the part.

I started with a Valdi and Helius tonearm back in 1990, then had a Voyd with a Tabriz ZI around '92, then went onto the 0.5 Ref in around '94, which I still have, initially with an SME 309, later a Wilson Benesh Act 2, and currently an FR64fx, but I also have an Audio Note AN1-S arm, and an FR64s I need to try out. I have also have a Reference I picked up a few years ago which has an Audio Note Arm1-3 v2.

Carts have been Goldring Eroica, Audio Note Soara (still don't know what happened to that during the house move), and I now have an Ortofon MC70 anniversary (Expert Cart rebuilt), and an Audio Note IO-1

I prefer to remove the base from the Voyd and run them with cone feet directly on the wooden frame, and whilst I generally preferred 2 belts on the Voyd, the 0.5 and Ref seem to work better with 1. As AJSki2Fly discovered, getting everything absolutely level also pays off.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/vgarqdvoucuinfn/Voyd%20Ref.jpg


https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/jtjjvmedprguoj9/Voyd-0.5-FR64fx.jpg

Hi Simon, your Voyds look good. Out of interest what improvements do you think using cone feet have and what do you use? Do you remove the base to stop it acting like a guitar sound box?

Cheers

Adrian

[Spectral Morn]

Hi Simon, your Voyds look good. Out of interest what improvements do you think using cone feet have and what do you use? Do you remove the base to stop it acting like a guitar sound box?

Cheers

Adrian

Thats how I ran my Valdi, base removed, Michell cones and a Rata Toralyte tripod stand. I was an idiot to sell all of that.

[sjs]

Out of interest what improvements do you think using cone feet have and what do you use? Do you remove the base to stop it acting like a guitar sound box?

I have three really old brass things of unknown source, bass down with v v small amount of blu-tac, point up into the wooden frame

yes, it is just a lot more stable sounding as far as I recall. although tbh it is many many years since I did a direct comparison

[AJSki2fly]

Ok I will see what I can find and have a go. Thanks

[Vrajbasi]

I have been listening to my Audionote (voyd) reference past few days feet make a huge I mean huge difference to the sound. I have some custom made heavy brass feet certainly and improvement to the bass the midrange is a little to forward for me. I then tried the track audio feet a huge step from the brass feet so much more controlled imaging was great for the money they are actually good value. I then went on to the Harmonix 888 deluxe these are superb the midrange is totally open and musical so much flow to the sound the whole sound is way more fleshed out and holographic treble has far more detail without being harsh. I also have a set of the of the Shun mook feet these were stunning too maybe a little soft not quite the grip of the harmonix but very sweet.

[AJSki2fly]

I have been listening to my Audionote (voyd) reference past few days feet make a huge I mean huge difference to the sound. I have some custom made heavy brass feet certainly and improvement to the bass the midrange is a little to forward for me. I then tried the track audio feet a huge step from the brass feet so much more controlled imaging was great for the money they are actually good value. I then went on to the Harmonix 888 deluxe these are superb the midrange is totally open and musical so much flow to the sound the whole sound is way more fleshed out and holographic treble has far more detail without being harsh. I also have a set of the of the Shun mook feet these were stunning too maybe a little soft not quite the grip of the harmonix but very sweet.

Interestingly I just put 4 25mm sorbothane hemispheres under the Voyd and am currently listening to St Germain - Tourist side 3 Track "Ponts Des Arts", this has copious amounts of driving bass and some lovely electric piano, with some subtle vocals, and great cymbal & snare beats. It sounds superb, tight bass, detailed and smooth mids, with crisp top end. Perhaps you should invest in these and see what you think https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/5-x-SORBOTHANE-25mm-ANTI-VIBRATION-HEMISPHERES-FEET-Turntables-Speakers-etc-/301297544931, check what side for you TT weight. :)

[chris@panteg]

I met up with chris@panteg yesterday and now have his PSU, so hopefully it will be back up and running soon.

Fordy's deck with the SME V looks nice, and good to see the new arm board looking the part.

I started with a Valdi and Helius tonearm back in 1990, then had a Voyd with a Tabriz ZI around '92, then went onto the 0.5 Ref in around '94, which I still have, initially with an SME 309, later a Wilson Benesh Act 2, and currently an FR64fx, but I also have an Audio Note AN1-S arm, and an FR64s I need to try out. I have also have a Reference I picked up a few years ago which has an Audio Note Arm1-3 v2.

Carts have been Goldring Eroica, Audio Note Soara (still don't know what happened to that during the house move), and I now have an Ortofon MC70 anniversary (Expert Cart rebuilt), and an Audio Note IO-1

I prefer to remove the base from the Voyd and run them with cone feet directly on the wooden frame, and whilst I generally preferred 2 belts on the Voyd, the 0.5 and Ref seem to work better with 1. As AJSki2Fly discovered, getting everything absolutely level also pays off.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/vgarqdvoucuinfn/Voyd%20Ref.jpg


https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/jtjjvmedprguoj9/Voyd-0.5-FR64fx.jpg
Gorgeous looking reference Simon.
Interesting about using two belts on the standard Voyd, it's a bit of a faf just to get one on,I've heard others say it's not worth the bother.

[Vrajbasi]

Interestingly I just put 4 25mm sorbothane hemispheres under the Voyd and am currently listening to St Germain - Tourist side 3 Track "Ponts Des Arts", this has copious amounts of driving bass and some lovely electric piano, with some subtle vocals, and great cymbal & snare beats. It sounds superb, tight bass, detailed and smooth mids, with crisp top end. Perhaps you should invest in these and see what you think https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/5-x-SORBOTHANE-25mm-ANTI-VIBRATION-HEMISPHERES-FEET-Turntables-Speakers-etc-/301297544931, check what side for you TT weight. :)

Funny enough I have some of those and have just tried them, I find them interesting while smooth and textured does not have any where the detail of the track audio and the sheer musicality of the harmonix while it is a good value upgrade the Harmonix while costly do do so much more. I would most certainly recommend the Harmonix with the Voyd.

[sjs]

Gorgeous looking reference Simon.
Interesting about using two belts on the standard Voyd, it's a bit of a faf just to get one on,I've heard others say it's not worth the bother.I recall it generally adds more solidity and tightens things up, but can detract a little from the verve and musicality. It will depend on the system and your preferences, but yes it is definitely a faff!

[AJSki2fly]

Well I just thought I would do some interconnect cable swapping from phono stage to amp. I have a variety of 6 cables and using the same St Germain track Ponts des Arts I listened to each, there were differences between all, I ignore cost and just put then in order of preference. As soon as I put my 10 year old Eccose Reference in it was like flicking a switch, more detailed top end, lovely mid ranged and so dynamic, previously I had a Chord Camelaon vee 3 in place which is well respected, but the Eccosse is much better. I also have a pair of Eccosse nu-diva’s which I will try tomorrow.

Amazing the effects of cables.

[Vrajbasi]

[QUOTE=Amazing the effects of cables.[/QUOTE]


I totally agree adrian with your findings,and not always the most expensive are the best, but there is most certainly big differences to be had in my opinion the very good ones are just like changing a component.

[Vrajbasi]

I recall it generally adds more solidity and tightens things up, but can detract a little from the verve and musicality. It will depend on the system and your preferences, but yes it is definitely a faff!

Two belts generally have more control and slam I prefer the ease and flow of the single belt.

[AJSki2fly]

I totally agree adrian with your findings,and not always the most expensive are the best, but there is most certainly big differences to be had in my opinion the very good ones are just like changing a component.

I hear you have been trying out my recommendation of sorbothane feet.:eyebrows: I presume you noticed a difference.:lol: But was it for the better, I mean to not having any at all. :D

[sjs]

I found out only recently that AN Voyd Reference decks would be supplied with 9.5mm thick "reference" arm boards.

Obviously they add mass, but also remove the need for the brass spacers under the arm board.

Anyway, I had one made in 10mm aluminium with black powder coat finish and replaced the regular board on the FR64fx, and it does seem to have grown some big boots, improved clarity and bass definition. Quite an interesting change overall.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/xna3zkry752l1k4/Voyd-0.5-FR64fx_2.jpg

[dwhistance]

Hi Simon, now you need to try a brass one! Nari (Vjrbasi) suggested I try a brass armboard for my FR64fx which works very well. Also do you have the heavy mount (N60) on yours? I've been thinking of asking Steve (Magna Audio) to make me one as it's supposed to make the arm even better. All the best. David

[sjs]

David,
I have the standard arm base for the FR64fx, and with the 10mm arm board (90g) I can still balance out the Voyd suspension, I am not sure if the extra mass of the N60 can be accomodated.
I also have an FR64s which will be next up, but I don't expect I will be able to use the heavier arm board with that as I hear that it is only just possible to balance the Voyd suspension with the S fitted, but we will find out soon enough :D
Brass could be interesting, I saw the thread from Steve, it looks very nice. I went for aluminium to keep the same material as the originals, and the same as the whole sub-chassis etc. Simon

[YNWaN]

Yes, I would beware of adding mass for the sake of it, it is more important that you get the suspension dynamic right. There is quite a lot of 'folklore' regarding armboard materials.

[Spectral Morn]

The Track Audio feet work very well. I have tried the spike version and the non spike version, both work well, but the lower height non spike version sound better and look better when used under a turntable.

[chris@panteg]

I don't think I'll be doing any experimenting or tweaking with my Voyd, just set up and ready to go.

[Vrajbasi]

I use a brass arm board on my Voyd reference it works very well its 6mm I have a 8mm one too but like the 6mm, I am getting a ebony one machined soon so lets see, I never liked the aluminium arms boards I have quite a few of varying thicknesses. I find the finishing of the boards also makes a difference for some reason, powder coating is a bit sterile and naked sound a bit brash, I like gold plating for some reason soften the sound and keeps the sense of scale.

[AJSki2fly]

Strange how when you look for something they are not to be found and then all of sudden they pop up all over the place.

If anyone is interested I have been told of I very nice Audio Note Voyd TT3 with Split PSU made Feb 2000 that's for sale, basically its a Voyd. It has what looks like an Audio Note One arm and Audio Note ANVx 31 strand silver phono lead. The owner has sent me pictures and the whole lot looks in superb condition. If you are interested I can put you in touch with the owner.

[chris@panteg]

Strange how when you look for something they are not to be found and then all of sudden they pop up all over the place.

If anyone is interested I have been told of I very nice Audio Note Voyd TT3 with Split PSU made Feb 2000 that's for sale, basically its a Voyd. It has what looks like an Audio Note One arm and Audio Note ANVx 31 strand silver phono lead. The owner has sent me pictures and the whole lot looks in superb condition. If you are interested I can put you in touch with the owner.

You don't often see the Audionote TT3 version for sale, how much is it going for?
Hopefully will have my psu back sometime next week.

[George47]

I have had my Voyd 0.5 for many, many years. It has a rewired SME V and an AN Io. Gary Dews brought it around and the base it sits on has a solid metal frame and the only way to move it is to stand inside the frame and lift it up and move it in small steps. A job and a half. Setting the table up was much easier, Gary did it!!

I had an intermittent problem with the TT refusing to rotate. I went round to Guy's place and he found the power strip inside the TT had a small intermittent break. Soon fixed and whilst my TT was 'naked' Guy rebalanced the motors to ensure it was running with minimal noise. Apart from that it just sits there and just does the job.

I re-check the level and bounce of the TT and it does not change (or is minimal). I have compared it to a lot of other TTs and for me it has the best overall balance. A great product and I am not surprised they are difficult to get buy. I think Pete (Coco) had to really search for his Ref (bought abroad?).

I tried using two belts but by heck, it was a tricky job getting both belts around three motors. I prefer a single belt.

Good to know that the electronics are still serviceable. Are there readily available replacement belts?

[chris@panteg]

I have had my Voyd 0.5 for many, many years. It has a rewired SME V and an AN Io. Gary Dews brought it around and the base it sits on has a solid metal frame and the only way to move it is to stand inside the frame and lift it up and move it in small steps. A job and a half. Setting the table up was much easier, Gary did it!!

I had an intermittent problem with the TT refusing to rotate. I went round to Guy's place and he found the power strip inside the TT had a small intermittent break. Soon fixed and whilst my TT was 'naked' Guy rebalanced the motors to ensure it was running with minimal noise. Apart from that it just sits there and just does the job.

I re-check the level and bounce of the TT and it does not change (or is minimal). I have compared it to a lot of other TTs and for me it has the best overall balance. A great product and I am not surprised they are difficult to get buy. I think Pete (Coco) had to really search for his Ref (bought abroad?).

I tried using two belts but by heck, it was a tricky job getting both belts around three motors. I prefer a single belt.

Good to know that the electronics are still serviceable. Are there readily available replacement belts?

I've just bought 4 new belts from cpc.farnell.com AV42.

But what. 5 do you have? Is it the double speed with slimline pulleys? If so you need a different /shorter belt.

[George47]

Not sure. It has twin speed from the PSU. I need to find my bag with its last remaining new belt. Got them from Farnell, I think.

[AJSki2fly]

Not sure. It has twin speed from the PSU. I need to find my bag with its last remaining new belt. Got them from Farnell, I think.

Make sure you have the right thickness as well as length for your Voyd, have a read of my first post in this thread.

[chris@panteg]

Not sure. It has twin speed from the PSU. I need to find my bag with its last remaining new belt. Got them from Farnell, I think.

It's easy to check, what type of motor pulleys do you have? if they are the thin type then it's double speed, the chunkier brass one's are Standard.

[sjs]

Not sure. It has twin speed from the PSU. I need to find my bag with its last remaining new belt. Got them from Farnell, I think.

A regular Voyd, 0.5 Ref or Ref has pulleys that look like this:

https://img.ukaudiomart.com/uploads/large/1841529-voyd-turntable.jpg


The double speed version of the 0.5 Ref has skinny pulleys that look like this:

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/om3ei8cwrfh33p8/Voyd-05_2.jpg

[AJSki2fly]

When it is on a Voyd and is a Benz Micro LP-S

I thought that some of you might find my views on the LP-S interesting or possibly helpful as it can be very difficult when buying a cartridge, especially when it can be a costly affair.

I have spent quite a bit of time auditioning various cartridges as I wanted to get the best from my Vinyl collection, the Voyd and my SME IV. A couple of dealers very kindly lent me a cartridge each, both which were very good, Hana SL being equal musically but quieter in the groove than the Michell Cusis (Benz Micro Wood S in a different body), the Phasemation PP-300 having more detail and being quieter in the groove, these are both very good cartridges IMO. Both these cartridges were around £1K so not an insignificant outlay, at least for most of us.

I still thought that more could be had and after several discussions with a friend and a couple of trusted dealers I came to the conclusion that to get what I wanted was going to cost more, but how much more? I short listed a Phasemation PP-500, Transfiguration Pheonix S (very hard to find as no longer being made but they are out there new), possibly a Koetsu Red, and Benz Micro either an Ebony S or perhaps a LP-S. Then a spanner was thrown in the works and that was the Esturo Urushi Cobalt Blue, now this is a very serious spanner being a £4.5K cartridge, but is highly recommended by this that have heard it.

To be honest I spent many weeks wrestling with the idea of spending over £3K on a cartridge, and I nearly got my head around it, but selling it to my better half, Sue, was a difficult one, to say the least. Although she did say if I could raise the cash then fine. Then my best friend, Dave, and fellow audiophile purchased an LP-S, he has one on a SME V on a SME 20/3 TT, even though it had only done around 50 hours what he reported sounded extremely good. So after careful consideration this is what I went for as the photo below shows.

I actually purchased it from Henrik at Lydprodukter DK as he is a Benz Micro main dealer and holds all of them in stock, he also supplied me the Voyd. I actually got it for a great price and would recommend you speak with him if you are after a Benz.

So how does it sound in my setup? I have a selection of 10-12 tracks that I regularly use for listening assessments, and that is what I used initially. I actually expect it to be a bit bright straight out the box, initially it was a little but after around 4 tracks started to settle down. The recommended bedding in time for it is 40-50 hours.

A few tracks with my notes of how I felt about it at the time:-

Supertramp - Crime of the Century

School - Harmonica at start has strength and presence, more than Cusis, low bass note in back ground clear and controlled. Vocal is warm and natural (he can sound edgy). Very good clarity and detail, detail of guitars and echoes not heard before are clear. Drum attack is as it should be. Bass punches but not dominating, piano arpeggios are clear in mix. A brilliant rendition.

Bloody Well Right - Electric piano perfect, everything just flows. It punches, but all the detail is there, does not become cluttered, which it can do as the bass can over-dominate. Instead it all is there in depth and detail.

St Germain - Tourists

Rose Rouge - Lots of detail in the cymbals and good decay. Good instrument separation. Bass is tight, piano repeated notes are clear. The tonality of the trumpet is great, no harshness, sounds real. Sax is natural, blending with the trumpet is best I have heard, can still separate the instruments.

Montego Bay Spleen - Masses of bass on this track, you just feel it, the depth is so controlled compared to the Cussis. Attack on drums and percussion is cutting. Guitar has lovely overtones and detail. Soundstage is wide and detailed.

Ravi Shankar - Portait of a Genius (a very telling album for any system)

Tala Rasa Ranga - Hand drums(tablas) sound as if in the room. wood block has a clear resonance, drums hollowness is expressive, can hear hand rolls on skins, Sitar is clear and strong in mix, flute is natural in tone. It all flows together in a balance mix, still able to pick out individual aspects. Superb sense of musically. I’m sat in front of the band.

Eva Cassidy - Nightcalls 7*45rpm LP’s

Fields of Gold - Eva’s voice comes across as effortless, her guitar has more depth and natural tone. Electric guitar harmonics are very good, with interplay between both clear. A slight sibilance occasionally, may need VTA tweak, but may be natural.

Baby I Love You - A difficult track that can easily sound dry, but with the LP-S it comes to life. I think this is because the dryness of the bass can overwhelm the mix and thus dull down the other instruments in the mix. This does not happen with the LP-S all the instruments are clear and it comes to life as a result.

Hugh Masekela - Stimela from Hope(live album)

Best I have ever heard it on my system. Sounds like I am stood in front of the stage. The detail is fantastic. The lightly played electric piano chords cut through the mix, often being lost before. Lightly strummed guitar chords are clear. What is very evident is the the LP-S is getting every bit of detail on the grooves it can and is producing a great sound. the attack on the cowbell strikes reaches out and touches you. Saxophone and Flugal horn just soar. The only time I can remember it sounding slightly better was on a system at a dealers which cost a £400K.

Richard Strauss - Also Spracht Zarathustra (Duetsche G. 2530 402)

Sehr breit - opening track has huge bass from double basses, horns are imposing, kettle drums are here in the room! I can sense the orchestra, the organ note at the end is immense and detailed, with decay and echo. What is noticeable is the detail and separation of instrumentation on the Weniger breit, the violins soar in beautiful harmony.I can hear detail of the horns at the crescendo, and can pick out instruments in the orchestra. Very impressive and musical, so much so I listen to the whole record.

So to sum up, so far I have played all my test listening tracks and around 10 varied albums and the LP-S in my opinion is quite an exceptional cartridge. The initial assessment I did was very early on straight out the box and I was quite surprised at how good it sounded after just a couple of hours use. It improved as I played more tracks, I personally do not think this is due to me becoming more accustomed to its sound, more that as it settled in and warmed up the general rendition improved. My comments are as accurate and as honest as I can be. In some ways it is tonally similar to the Cusis(Wood S), which is not a bad thing as I always liked it in my system. However it is quite evident that the LP-S is getting a great deal more detail and control of what it is extracting from the grooves. I have noticed a slightly warmer feel coming from it as it beds in. To be honest I was prepared to not hear a great difference at the start but I am pleasantly surprised. It will be interesting as to how it is in 50 hours of use. One point to note is that I detected some slight sibilance listening to Eva Cassidy - Fields of Gold, the VTA may need slight adjustment to hit the sweet spot, but I shall revisit this track after at least 30 hours of use before tweaking. From what I have been told it will only improve, the LP-S works well with my current set up, certainly the SME and Voyd.

The Benz Micro LP-S is extracting a great deal of detail from the grooves and in a very musical way, and is pretty quiet in the groove. I think I have made a very good choice of cartridge, and it is taken my vinyl enjoyment to another level.

https://i1339.photobucket.com/albums/o708/AJSki2fly/IMG_1155_zpsoucujrtg.jpeg

https://i1339.photobucket.com/albums/o708/AJSki2fly/IMG_1156_zpsz98efmdv.jpeg

[sjs]

Remove the lid, in my experience the Voyd sounds significantly better without it.

Also, 2nd hand AN IO 1 is an exceptional thing for around £1k

[thingfish]

Remove the lid, in my experience the Voyd sounds significantly better without it.

Also, 2nd hand AN IO 1 is an exceptional thing for around £1k



Nope......sooner have 4 new Goldie mm 1042s.

[AJSki2fly]

Remove the lid, in my experience the Voyd sounds significantly better without it.

Also, 2nd hand AN IO 1 is an exceptional thing for around £1k
Not so sure about 2nd hand carts even re-tipped the internals where out I believe. I have been told a max of 5-6 years for most before they degrade.

[sjs]

Rebuilds on AN UK carts are very good value, and come back effectively good as new

And I have a 1042 and I wouldn't take 10 in exchange for an IO tbh [emoji6]

[chris@panteg]

I'd have an IO any day over anything else.

[thingfish]

Wot......even a Denon DL103 Chris !!!

Your all mad.

:D

[chris@panteg]

Wot......even a Denon DL103 Chris !!!

Your all mad.

:D

There are a few cartridges I'd use in preference to a 103:eyebrows:

[thingfish]

And there are a few carts I'd use in pref to an IO.:eyebrows:

[Vrajbasi]

My io ltd sits in a draw gathering dust :lol:

[AJSki2fly]

My io ltd sits in a draw gathering dust :lol:

My Ortofon Rondo blue gather dust as well, but you never know it might be valuable one day. [emoji23]


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[chris@panteg]

I'll just have to make do with my lowly AT33EV.

[sjs]

I use a brass arm board on my Voyd reference it works very well its 6mm I have a 8mm one too but like the 6mm, I am getting a ebony one machined soon so lets see, I never liked the aluminium arms boards I have quite a few of varying thicknesses. I find the finishing of the boards also makes a difference for some reason, powder coating is a bit sterile and naked sound a bit brash, I like gold plating for some reason soften the sound and keeps the sense of scale.

any thoughts on the spacers between armboard and sub-chassis? I have a set of 6mm aluminium spacers, but normally use 9mm brass spacers as they sit the armboard level with the top plate, but I never thought about whether they would change the sound. Any thoughts? aluminium, brass or stainless steel? and possibly also the 4 bolts holding the armboard in place :D

[Vrajbasi]

any thoughts on the spacers between armboard and sub-chassis? I have a set of 6mm aluminium spacers, but normally use 9mm brass spacers as they sit the armboard level with the top plate, but I never thought about whether they would change the sound. Any thoughts? aluminium, brass or stainless steel? and possibly also the 4 bolts holding the armboard in place :D

I had some spacers made out of Copper which to my ears sounded alot more natural than aluminium, brass was certainly more rocky while stainless emphasised the midrange further, for me copper was great. Plating the arm board changes the sound I have driven myself crazy with this so will nore bore you here. Yes and bolts do make a difference also how much you tighten them.

[antonio]

Any chance of a photo of the spacers, and were you can buy them. I may need something similar for my Technics SL150

[AJSki2fly]

Any chance of a photo of the spacers, and were you can buy them. I may need something similar for my Technics SL150

I had a discussion on using spacers and was advised that they would impede the transmission of vibration/resonance from the arm into the chassis and this was not a good idea as you want these to dissipate into the chassis and not be fed back into the arm and cartridge which will affect the cartridge and sound.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[sjs]

Every Voyd and Valdi I have owned, setup or serviced since about 1990 has had spacers between the armboard and the sub chassis, I have always seen them as a part of the design tbh.

It also provides a gap under the armboard for the screws or bolts which attach the arm bases for Linn, sme, etc bases without them fouling the sub chassis.

The spacers are something like this:

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F 272141969986

Either 6/6.3mm or 9/9.5/10mm

The "reference" armboard AN started supplying were 9.5mm thick, but the holes for the arm pillar mounting bolts were recessed on the underside so the bolts didn't foul the sub chassis.

[chris@panteg]

Just a brief update on my Voyd, still waiting for the psu to be sorted, there is an issue with it, but in the meantime I've had an offer I simply couldn't refuse.
My Voyd now has an SME V, for £400 + my 309.
I thought about it for about 5 seconds, I had to have it.
Set it up last night, my Voyd now has some Linn parts, set of new hinges and a p-clip.

I'm also getting more confident at fitting the belt, just make sure you fit the rear pulley first.

[antonio]

Every Voyd and Valdi I have owned, setup or serviced since about 1990 has had spacers between the armboard and the sub chassis, I have always seen them as a part of the design tbh.

It also provides a gap under the armboard for the screws or bolts which attach the arm bases for Linn, sme, etc bases without them fouling the sub chassis.

The spacers are something like this:

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F 272141969986

Either 6/6.3mm or 9/9.5/10mm

The "reference" armboard AN started supplying were 9.5mm thick, but the holes for the arm pillar mounting bolts were recessed on the underside so the bolts didn't foul the sub chassis.

Thank you Simon, these could be ideal depending on which arm I purchase.

[Vrajbasi]

Just a brief update on my Voyd, still waiting for the psu to be sorted, there is an issue with it, but in the meantime I've had an offer I simply couldn't refuse.
My Voyd now has an SME V, for £400 + my 309.
I thought about it for about 5 seconds, I had to have it.
Set it up last night, my Voyd now has some Linn parts, set of new hinges and a p-clip.

I'm also getting more confident at fitting the belt, just make sure you fit the rear pulley first.

How old is the Sme V? in any case I would most certainly get it serviced you could be shocked by the difference.

[chris@panteg]

How old is the Sme V? in any case I would most certainly get it serviced you could be shocked by the difference.

I actually received it via Johnnie of audio origami, it's been serviced and also the rotating socket had to be refitted, I think it must be about 20 years old but it looks really good and has also been silver wired by Johnnie.

It looks mean, moody and magnificent on my Voyd, I just need the psu now, so I have a very nice looking turntable but that's all I can do at the moment, is just look at it.

[Johnnie7]

hope you love the arm !!!


ive got some new metal and plastic composite headshell SPACER sets if anyone is interested :eek:

1mm thick = 1 gram
2mm thick = 2 grams
3mm thick = 3 grams
4mm thick = 4 grams


26251

[chris@panteg]

hope you love the arm !!!


ive got some new metal and plastic composite headshell washers sets if anyone is interested :eek:

1mm thick = 1 gram
2mm thick = 2 grams
3mm thick = 3 grams
4mm thick = 4 grams


26251

Thanks Johnnie, I think I will, excellent work.

[pure sound]

I only found this thread today. It's nice to see a good number of people still getting pleasure from these decks.

[AJSki2fly]

Just fitted a new Ebony arm board for my SME IV to the Voyd, it is from Steve at Magna Audio. It is beautifully made and fit spot on and the arm set up is perfect for 9" SME.

I have listened to a couple of my more telling test tracks and I have to say the the Ebony arm board has improve things a bit more. I would say that the separation is more defined and better clarity, mid range is slightly warmer and bass is more controlled. In fact I would go as far to say its bloody amazing. Considering my Benz Micro LP-S has only about 10 hours of use on it and is nowhere near bedded in then I am the proverbial Cheshire pussy.

Steve has also supplied me a 3mm brass arm board to try out, I will probably do so next weekend, after I have done some serious listening with the Ebony board. But at the moment I am not in a rush to change and setup yet again.

I should point out that both arm boards have been specifically designed to bolt directly onto the chassis, without the need for spacers, then are both threaded to take the 3mm SME mounting bolts, the ebony board has brass threaded inserts in the bottom. IMHO having the arm board directly mounted onto the chassis improves then end result sonically.

To mount directly to the chassis it is just a matter of purchasing some slightly longer 3M bolts on Ebay for a few pounds and after measuring cutting them down to the correct length so they do not hit the chassis on two of the mounting points. I left one long so that I could attach the earthing lead and the other end is held onto an arm board fixing bolt below the chassis by a nut, this is a little fiddly to fit and you need patience, I would recommend fitting it before mounting the arm.

https://i1339.photobucket.com/albums/o708/AJSki2fly/IMG_1157_zps52wzuzc7.jpeg

https://i1339.photobucket.com/albums/o708/AJSki2fly/IMG_1158_zps6z8iyt8v.jpeg

[antonio]

That looks excellent Adrian, Steve's obviously done a good job.

[thingfish]

A simply sublime deck ruined by the inclusion of a SME 4.

Imho........of course.

[thingfish]

Try an origin live silver.

Or..........

[AJSki2fly]

A simply sublime deck ruined by the inclusion of a SME 4.

Imho........of course.

Absolute tosh, SME IV's were always considered a good match for a Voyd, and I can confirm it works extremely well.

I am actually going to try a Jelco TK-850M (10") in the near future to see if there is any improvement.

[thingfish]

No no no.....and thrice no.

But it's your TT........knock yer self out.

[Vrajbasi]

No no no.....and thrice no.

But it's your TT........knock yer self out.

Rubbish I have owned many Voyd's with various arms depending on cartridge choice the Sme IV and V can work very well indeed. Adrian has made a good choice in my opinion. In my opinion the Origin live silver is not a patch on the Voyd having heard one myself. If cost does not come into it the 9" glanz or the ikeda 345 would be my preferred choice. I certainly would not knock the Voyd sme combo.

[thingfish]

Great.......like I say.......Knock yerselfs out.

But better arms for a third of the price will piss on a SME4.

Would you like me to recommend a few......?

[Vrajbasi]

Great.......like I say.......Knock yerselfs out.

But better arms for a third of the price will piss on a SME4.

Would you like me to recommend a few......?

Thats your opinion I have heard and owned plenty of arms how many offer the build after sales support not to mention the success of the arms. The sme arms are far from perfect they have there short comings as do most products but your comments are far fetched in my opinion that is. And to knock someones choice simply ain't cricket. When was the last time you heard a series Iv have you owned one on a Voyd we are talking about combinations.

[thingfish]

Try a Rega R 200.

Nuff said...............Or 300, but not as good imho.

Your too touchy, I only recommend......never meant to shit on yer wee parade..!!!

Like I said SME 4 ......GO FOR IT.

[Vrajbasi]

Try a Rega R 200.

Nuff said...............Or 300, but not as good imho.

:doh:

[thingfish]

:ner:

[AJSki2fly]

Alan, with all due respect the gentleman you are having a go at, in an unnecessary way IMO has more arms, cartridges and turntables than you could imagine. He has a vast knowledge and experience of what works and what doesn’t, by buying and trying a lot of combinations out. He also has a close friend who has a similar knowledge. If you like what you have then fine but please don’t rubbish someone else’s view.

Regards

Adrian

[thingfish]

Hi Adrian,

Likewise WADR I only voice my opinion.

A man may have shagged a thousand hookers, the next man only a couple true loves........

Which is best or preferable or brings greater pleasure is a mute point.

Cheers.......:cool:

[Barry]

And WADR, one man's opinion is just as valid as another's. The important point is to respect that.

[thingfish]

Spot on Barry.

[antonio]

And WADR, one man's opinion is just as valid as another's. The important point is to respect that.

Are, but it's the way you tell em.

[Vrajbasi]

Are, but it's the way you tell em.

:lol: certainly is

[Barry]

My comment was directed at 'thingfish', though of course it applies generally.

[antonio]

My comment was directed at 'thingfish', though of course it applies generally.

My post was not directed at you Barry.

[Barry]

No worries David. :)

[ovlov854]

Gentlemen......................
To bring some sanity back to this thread.
I am a new Voyd Valdi owner and I I am having trouble in setting up the TT
I have an Audio Note Arm 1 V2 to install and so far have been unsuccessful and am in need of help.
I am in Solihull and would welcome help from anybody reasonably close or perhaps a knowledgeable dealer

[AJSki2fly]

Gentlemen......................
To bring some sanity back to this thread.
I am a new Voyd Valdi owner and I I am having trouble in setting up the TT
I have an Audio Note Arm 1 V2 to install and so far have been unsuccessful and am in need of help.
I am in Solihull and would welcome help from anybody reasonably close or perhaps a knowledgeable dealer

Hi can you describe the problem you are having? May be able to advise.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[chris@panteg]

Is it the armboard? I think that Simon of SJS can help if you need an armboard.

[ovlov854]

SJS Simon has made me a suitable armboard...so thats OK
Having trouble adjusting the suspension and bringig the platter down to 5mm off the topplate. Just how far can the inserts protrude?
Also the AN arm cable seems to be remarkably inflexible and I cannot see how to dress the cable using the P clip. Doing it that way would foul the suspension pillar and motor.
At some point I may have to drill the plinth to exit the cable but until I find how best to dress the cable I cannot determine where to drill

[chris@panteg]

Have you tried looping the cable, then into the p-clip.

[sjs]

the trick is always to loop the arm cable before the P clip so it can move vertically with freedom, but also doesn't drag the sub-chassis around horizontally. easier said than done :rolleyes:

Here is a photo of my AN Arm 1-3 mk2 with the arm cable dressed inside the Voyd and exiting through the regular hole in the chassis. hopefully it helps to illustrate things.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/bmn6d73q5zpx9il/Voyd_arm_cable.jpg

It should not be necessary to drill new holes in the frame.

[chris@panteg]

That is how I set mine up Simon.

[ovlov854]

the trick is always to loop the arm cable before the P clip so it can move vertically with freedom, but also doesn't drag the sub-chassis around horizontally. easier said than done :rolleyes:

Here is a photo of my AN Arm 1-3 mk2 with the arm cable dressed inside the Voyd and exiting through the regular hole in the chassis. hopefully it helps to illustrate things.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/s/bmn6d73q5zpx9il/Voyd_arm_cable.jpg

It should not be necessary to drill new holes in the frame.

Aha! now it makes more sense. My Valdi strangely does not have an armcable exit at all!!
Can't imagine how that was intended
I will have to search out a suitable drill now I have a good idea where the exit hole should be
Thanks Simon for the picture.
Doubtless be in touch when it comes to putting the belt on !!!!!!!!!!!!!:doh::doh::doh:

[chris@panteg]

Got my refurbished psu back from Simon today, after an initial faux pas (I'd tightened up the motors too much) all is well and spinning vinyl again, sounding very good indeed, pitch stability excellent.

The familiar Voyd open and airy presentation with authority and drive, sounding out of the box.
The SME V has a familiar sound as I'm used to the 309, just a bit more authority and scale.
Very happy and getting really good at fitting the belt, it's a doddle once you have the knack.

Quite a noticeable change from the Technics in terms of tone and a much wider and bigger soundstage but I would say that the Technics was just as good in terms of drive and authority. And certainly just as good in the bass.

[AJSki2fly]

Got my refurbished psu back from Simon today, after an initial faux pas (I'd tightened up the motors too much) all is well and spinning vinyl again, sounding very good indeed, pitch stability excellent.

The familiar Voyd open and airy presentation with authority and drive, sounding out of the box.
The SME V has a familiar sound as I'm used to the 309, just a bit more authority and scale.
Very happy and getting really good at fitting the belt, it's a doddle once you have the knack.

Quite a noticeable change from the Technics in terms of tone and a much wider and bigger soundstage but I would say that the Technics was just as good in terms of drive and authority. And certainly just as good in the bass.

Pleased to hear you are up and running at last and enjoying the Voyd and SME

[chris@panteg]

Pleased to hear you are up and running at last and enjoying the Voyd and SME

Thanks it's been worth waiting for, it's just got better and better as everything has warmed up.

There is one small issue and that is the suspension is set a little too low, 180 gram records are not playable, so I'll have dismantle it again and adjust the three springs.

[AJSki2fly]

When I set mine up I used two occasional tables the same height next to each other with the Voyd placed on them so that you could still access the adjustment screws underneath.

Make sure the plinth is level first sitting on the tables and then adjust the screws with a 180gm record on it until the platter is 5mm off the plinth, get a piece of card and mark 5mm to measure off the plinth against bottom edged of the platter as you adjust the screws. If you use a record clamp then add this as well. I also used a small circular bubble level to check the plinth was level by placing it on the centre of the record. Once it sits dead level you will notice a sound improvement.

If you do the above thenmake sure the tables cannot slip. Also before you move the Voyd make sure the SME arm is secure with a tie around it, and put on a stylus guard if your cartridge has one.

Once adjusted then carefully put it back where it sits normally and recheck it is still level with the 180gn record (and clamp if you use it).

[chris@panteg]

When I set mine up I used two occasional tables the same height next to each other with the Voyd placed on them so that you could still access the adjustment screws underneath.

Make sure the plinth is level first sitting on the tables and then adjust the screws with a 180gm record on it until the platter is 5mm off the plinth, get a piece of card and mark 5mm to measure off the plinth against bottom edged of the platter as you adjust the screws. If you use a record clamp then add this as well. I also used a small circular bubble level to check the plinth was level by placing it on the centre of the record. Once it sits dead level you will notice a sound improvement.

If you do the above thenmake sure the tables cannot slip. Also before you move the Voyd make sure the SME arm is secure with a tie around it, and put on a stylus guard if your cartridge has one.

Once adjusted then carefully put it back where it sits normally and recheck it is still level with the 180gn record (and clamp if you use it).

Excellent advice, many thanks, I've never done this before though my good friend John will be popping round tomorrow to help, he's set his voyd up many a time, I'll do it as you suggest though.

[sjs]

I just put a soup tin under each corner to get access to the underside when I setup the suspension :)

[AJSki2fly]

I just put a soup tin under each corner to get access to the underside when I setup the suspension :)

That's a simpler option, and just use a stubby screwdriver, why did I not think of that :doh:

[chris@panteg]

I just put a soup tin under each corner to get access to the underside when I setup the suspension :)

Excellent Simon, I was wondering if there was a more high tech way of doing it:eyebrows:

[sjs]

That's a simpler option, and just use a stubby screwdriver, why did I not think of that :doh:I just use a big Philips head drill bit

[chris@panteg]

Is it a phillips I need not a flat.

[sjs]

Is it a phillips I need not a flat.I've always used a Philips head bit, but who knows with yours [emoji16]

[chris@panteg]

I've always used a Philips head bit, but who knows with yours [emoji16]

:lol: yeah the psu, Guy might have put tork screws in but hopefully not.

[chris@panteg]

Simon it was a flat headed, but using the soup tins idea worked perfectly, I love high tech solutions to problems like this, all sorted now.

[chris@panteg]

I've had a couple of good listening sessions with the Voyd now and it's quite interesting to note some differences compared to the modified Technics 1210 I was using.

Firstly the tonal balance is very different, with the Voyd there is a lot more tonal colour, the Technics is a bit monotone and has a touch of glare,
The soundstage is wider and deeper with what I would say is better dynamic contrast, it's very tuneful.

But the Technics is not disgraced at all really, it sounded open with great authority and tremendous sense of drive with superb bass response.

There is one area where I feel that the Technics is superior and that is absolute pitch stability!
The first piece of piano I played and it was startling obvious, days gone down by Gerry Rafferty, now I'm not using a brand new belt, but I have got three new belts so I will have to try one.

I don't know yet if this will bother me much but it's a trade off.

[sjs]

and make sure the brass pulleys are clean, they collect a lot of detritus from the belts. get them super clean and smooth helps stability

[chris@panteg]

and make sure the brass pulleys are clean, they collect a lot of detritus from the belts. get them super clean and smooth helps stability

Thanks Simon, yes I did give them a clean but will go over them again, I've had another play with the suspension and I think I've got just about right now.

Had a listening session last night and it's sounding rather lovely.
So effortlessly musical.

[AJSki2fly]

So I have been playing with the Voyd again, this time with a new tone arm that was recommended to me. I have always wanted to try a 10" arm out and so as the Voyd can take one that is what I decided to do. The arm is a new JELCO TK850M. I found fitting it not too bad although setting the arm up needs a little patience, not a job to rush, and I checked everything several times.

I have listened to my 15 or so favourite evaluation tracks and in summary the result I think is this:-

The Jelco TK850M tonearm is very impressive. I expected it to be quite good but maybe not as good as it has turned out. It seems to be an arm that does not clutter or colour the music, far from it the result is a very open soundstage and it seems to get great clarity. I find it more lively than the SME IV that I own, I think that a sense of more rhythm comes to mind and hence it all sounds more musical. From my scoring across the board the Jelco is certainly at least as good as the SME IV, and in my estimation in my set up is pulling more detail out of the groove and presenting it very nicely. I would give it a 9.5 out of 10, the SME is a 9.

So to sum up with the right cartridge and turntable in my opinion the Jelco TK850M is a bit of a giant slayer and is an absolute bargain for the cost.

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/o708/AJSki2fly/0/0bed3806-a6a7-4cfa-9563-29800d894a57-original.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds (https://beta.photobucket.com/u/AJSki2fly/p/0bed3806-a6a7-4cfa-9563-29800d894a57)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/o708/AJSki2fly/0/72f1f0c7-7ca4-4891-8bad-54854e3a0186-original.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds (https://beta.photobucket.com/u/AJSki2fly/p/72f1f0c7-7ca4-4891-8bad-54854e3a0186)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/o708/AJSki2fly/0/2cdd3b26-e24b-409f-8f2d-2103cadca700-original.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds (https://beta.photobucket.com/u/AJSki2fly/p/2cdd3b26-e24b-409f-8f2d-2103cadca700)

https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/o708/AJSki2fly/0/de10c02e-191a-493d-b685-718106ce9589-original.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds (https://beta.photobucket.com/u/AJSki2fly/p/de10c02e-191a-493d-b685-718106ce9589)

[montesquieu]

There is one area where I feel that the Technics is superior and that is absolute pitch stability!
The first piece of piano I played and it was startling obvious, days gone down by Gerry Rafferty, now I'm not using a brand new belt, but I have got three new belts so I will have to try one.

I don't know yet if this will bother me much but it's a trade off.


This is why I sold my Voyd 3 motor. I bought it on reputation and sold my well-fettled Garrard 401 to fund it, only to find when it arrived, that after using an idler, the audible speed wobble drove me nuts. It had a bit more air and space and all that, but that's nothing if it's making your teeth grate.

I thought it needed service so I had the PSU fettled and re-set up electrically (oscillosope job for the three phases), new belts, bearing service etc - well the air and space got even better but the wobble didn't improve in the least.

I had been borrowing a TD124 while the Voyd was being worked on, and pleaded with the guy who loaned me it to sell it to me.

I guess some people are sensitive to this, others not. For me it's a complete and utter deal-breaker and I've been idler or DD for all my TTs (main and second system) ever since.

I was running it with the Audio Note Arm3/II, Io2 + Kondo era AN S6c step-up.

[Vrajbasi]

This is why I sold my Voyd 3 motor. I bought it on reputation and sold my well-fettled Garrard 401 to fund it, only to find when it arrived, that after using an idler, the audible speed wobble drove me nuts. It had a bit more air and space and all that, but that's nothing if it's making your teeth grate.

I thought it needed service so I had the PSU fettled and re-set up electrically (oscillosope job for the three phases), new belts, bearing service etc - well the air and space got even better but the wobble didn't improve in the least.

I had been borrowing a TD124 while the Voyd was being worked on, and pleaded with the guy who loaned me it to sell it to me.

I guess some people are sensitive to this, others not. For me it's a complete and utter deal-breaker and I've been idler or DD for all my TTs (main and second system) ever since.

I was running it with the Audio Note Arm3/II, Io2 + Kondo era AN S6c step-up.

I can see your point and if choosing one turntable it does makes sense to choose a deck that suits more of your requirements, I appreciate the Voyd for what it is could I like with one as my one and only deck no is the answer. I would find it difficult to live with one it would be almost impossible I still find the Voyd and Voyd reference engaging despite there flaws.Its like the pink triangle anniversary I love the midrange and too my ears one of the few decks that gets more out of the sme arms. I could own one for that quality alone but would still need another deck to do the rest especially when it comes to total control and stability. Its all about compromise and we take the option that best suits our needs.

[AJSki2fly]

This is why I sold my Voyd 3 motor. I bought it on reputation and sold my well-fettled Garrard 401 to fund it, only to find when it arrived, that after using an idler, the audible speed wobble drove me nuts. It had a bit more air and space and all that, but that's nothing if it's making your teeth grate.

I thought it needed service so I had the PSU fettled and re-set up electrically (oscillosope job for the three phases), new belts, bearing service etc - well the air and space got even better but the wobble didn't improve in the least.

I had been borrowing a TD124 while the Voyd was being worked on, and pleaded with the guy who loaned me it to sell it to me.

I guess some people are sensitive to this, others not. For me it's a complete and utter deal-breaker and I've been idler or DD for all my TTs (main and second system) ever since.

I was running it with the Audio Note Arm3/II, Io2 + Kondo era AN S6c step-up.

I think something could not have been quite right with yours. I have measured my Voyd - Voyd several times at 33.33 rpm and 45rpm, at 33.33rpm speed variation measured is between 0.09 - 0.3%, wow/flutter is 0.23-0.26%. I believe both these figures are very low compared to some turntables. From my understanding at this level you would need pitch perfect hearing to detect these variations. Perhaps you have extremely good pitch or maybe it is the type of music that you listen to that makes it easier to hear variation. I have heard wow and flutter on another TT but I am yet to notice it on the Voyd.

[montesquieu]

I think something could not have been quite right with yours. I have measured my Voyd - Voyd several times at 33.33 rpm and 45rpm, at 33.33rpm speed variation measured is between 0.09 - 0.3%, wow/flutter is 0.23-0.26%. I believe both these figures are very low compared to some turntables. From my understanding at this level you would need pitch perfect hearing to detect these variations. Perhaps you have extremely good pitch or maybe it is the type of music that you listen to that makes it easier to hear variation. I have heard wow and flutter on another TT but I am yet to notice it on the Voyd.

Yes I thought so too - that there was something wrong with it that's why I had the PSU serviced etc as I mentioned (by someone expert in these decks too). This made no difference. (I have since heard it on other Voyd decks too including a half reference with Io Ltd).

I'm a classical musician by training (thought it's been some years since I made a living from music) and yes I do have perfect pitch.

It's the same on most belt drive / light platter/ bouncy decks - LP12, PT, even recently on an SME 20. I don't care how they measure, I can hear speed wobble - it tends to be most obvious on the decay of a piano but that's not the only time I hear it. Perhaps it's the bounciness I'm hearing which manifests as instability, but after living without it, I simply can't abide it.

The only belt drive decks that don't suffer from this in my experience are the very high mass platter ones from the likes of Verdier. The only exception I can think of was the AN TT3 heard at Munich this year which is a Voyd-derived design but I didn't detect any issue with it, not sure why.

[AJSki2fly]

If your ears are professionally trained as a result of being a musician then I would agree you are likely to hear fluctuation as you will be used to hearing it correctly when played live.

I used to play in amateur bands but I think your not likely to hear it much with rock/blues recordings unless it is slow stuff and with a piano. More likely with some jazz music though.

[Primalsea]

Do all of the voyd models have three drive motors? I can see this being an issue unless very sophisticated controls were used to adjust for drift between the drives as they age and even then it could be problematic.

[GJO]

The Voyd Valdi has two motors,the Voyd has three.

[AJSki2fly]

Do all of the voyd models have three drive motors? I can see this being an issue unless very sophisticated controls were used to adjust for drift between the drives as they age and even then it could be problematic.

The Voyd -Voyd has a split phase power supply which controls the voltage to the motors, the motors are extremely good and very robust so should be good for many, many hours.

[Primalsea]

The Voyd -Voyd has a split phase power supply which controls the voltage to the motors, the motors are extremely good and very robust so should be good for many, many hours.

I was just wondering if there could be an issue with the motors as they age, maybe. Unless they are absolutely perfectly in sync I can see where there could be an issue. However, Tom does seem to be very sensitive/skilled to detecting it and hears it on other TTs as well.

[chris@panteg]

I would say that it's not so much an issue, I believe it to be performing excellently but it's just that I've been used to technics direct drive for over a decade, all that nonsense about hunting and pecking? It's just rock solid pitch stability, no belt drive I've heard can match it.

Having said that I'm still happy with my Voyd, it's superior in every other area.

[thingfish]

I would say that it's not so much an issue, I believe it to be performing excellently but it's just that I've been used to technics direct drive for over a decade, all that nonsense about hunting and pecking? It's just rock solid pitch stability, no belt drive I've heard can match it..

+1

I will never return to belt drive since discovering direct drive.
(Too many speed drift nightmares)

[AJSki2fly]

So having fitted the new JELCO TK850M 10" tonearm, as noted earlier, I thought it time to do a couple of other weeks to the Voyd. Chris I think mentioned that removing the bottom board from the plinth made an improvement as it acted as a sound board, a bit like a guitar. I had also noted a slight ticking noise coming from one of the motors, so I guessed that one of the adjust meant screws for the motor end-float needed a tweak.

So using using the cans of beans method to support the deck but using two load pieces of wood I removed the plinth base and then with the platter running carefully tweaked the motor adjustment screws and after a couple of minutes silent running. I had the plinth on 4 sorbothane feet previously but fixed then to each corner with double sided thin tape. I then re-check platter was level with 140gm record and record weight and the running speed, all was as before.

I put it back on its shelf and onto a quick listening session with Eva Cassidy - Fields of Gold and Ravi Shankar - Portrait of a Genius, Talsa Raga. My initial reaction is that there is a slight improvement separation, definition and bass control, which I would expected if the board in the bottom was acting a a sound board and putting vibrations into the plinth.

So if you have a Voyd I would consider removing the base if it is one with a large hole cut in it to allow access to the levelling adjustment screws, and put the paint either on sorbotane feet or as others have suggested three inverted brass isolation cones (which I may try at some point).

[Vrajbasi]

So having fitted the new JELCO TK850M 10" tonearm, as noted earlier, I thought it time to do a couple of other weeks to the Voyd. Chris I think mentioned that removing the bottom board from the plinth made an improvement as it acted as a sound board, a bit like a guitar. I had also noted a slight ticking noise coming from one of the motors, so I guessed that one of the adjust meant screws for the motor end-float needed a tweak.

So using using the cans of beans method to support the deck but using two load pieces of wood I removed the plinth base and then with the platter running carefully tweaked the motor adjustment screws and after a couple of minutes silent running. I had the plinth on 4 sorbothane feet previously but fixed then to each corner with double sided thin tape. I then re-check platter was level with 140gm record and record weight and the running speed, all was as before.

I put it back on its shelf and onto a quick listening session with Eva Cassidy - Fields of Gold and Ravi Shankar - Portrait of a Genius, Talsa Raga. My initial reaction is that there is a slight improvement separation, definition and bass control, which I would expected if the board in the bottom was acting a a sound board and putting vibrations into the plinth.

So if you have a Voyd I would consider removing the base if it is one with a large hole cut in it to allow access to the levelling adjustment screws, and put the paint either on sorbotane feet or as others have suggested three inverted brass isolation cones (which I may try at some point).

I remember removing the base board of my Voyd's in the 90s the sound was always cleaner faster and better defined not always what I wanted something depending on my system and music preferences I liked a bit of colour for sure its worth experimenting. I also found replacing the base board with different material made a difference my dealer at the time had a board made out of hard wood and another out of aluminium all these had interesting differences to the sound. I liked the wooden board for its warmth and musicality I remember it sounding very natural with lovely weight and texture. The Aluminium sounded clean and fast I remember it being expensive to machine at the time. Feet have a massive influence too.

[GJO]

I found RDC cones to work rather well.

[chris@panteg]

I cleaned the motor pulleys yesterday, I just turned them on and used some duraglit, then run a cloth to buff up and they now look very shiny.
Fitted a brand new belt and it's made a difference.
It's really tightened things up, that slight pitch deviation has gone.
It seemed easier to fit the belt too.

It's sounding very fine indeed, I think I will in the not too distant future try a different cartridge, I'm thinking at the moment to get the Hana SL.

Thinking about trying different feet and removing the baseboard, my previous Voyd. 5 didn't have a base and it was fitted with Michell tenderfeet, don't know if they were ideal to be honest, something to think about.

[thingfish]

I cleaned the motor pulleys yesterday, I just turned them on and used some duraglit, then run a cloth to buff up and they now look very shiny.

Chris that sounds like a VIZ Top Tip.:)

Enjoy your Void.

[AJSki2fly]

I cleaned the motor pulleys yesterday, I just turned them on and used some duraglit, then run a cloth to buff up and they now look very shiny.
Fitted a brand new belt and it's made a difference.
It's really tightened things up, that slight pitch deviation has gone.
It seemed easier to fit the belt too.

It's sounding very fine indeed, I think I will in the not too distant future try a different cartridge, I'm thinking at the moment to get the Hana SL.

Thinking about trying different feet and removing the baseboard, my previous Voyd. 5 didn't have a base and it was fitted with Michell tenderfeet, don't know if they were ideal to be honest, something to think about.

Hi Chris

I have removed the baseboard and fitted 25mm sorbothane feet one each corner attached with thin double sided carpet tape, the result is better soundstage definition and more control at the bottom end.

You could also try these, Mr SJS said that he used inexpensive inverted brass spikes into the plinth and that he found that best:-

3Set-hifi-28mm-Speaker-Spike-Stand-Amp-Isolation-feet-Base-brass-spikes (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/3Set-hifi-28mm-Speaker-Spike-Stand-Amp-Isolation-feet-Base-brass-spikes/232021295488?hash=item36058c0180:g:LT0AAOSwLpdW8fL 4)

or ebony ones, which has a very good damping properties and is often used for tonearm mounting boards

HIFI-Ebony-Wood-Speaker-Spike-Isolation-Stand-CD-Amp-Feet- (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/3Set-HIFI-Ebony-Wood-Speaker-Spike-Isolation-Stand-CD-Amp-Feet-BASE/232025073673?hash=item3605c5a809:g:XzwAAOSwtnpXlM2 G)

I have tried a Hana SL and found it to be extremely good, similar in sound to a Benz Micro Wood S but quieter in the groove, I also tried a Phasemation PP-300 (from Hugo at Ammonite Audio) I have to say that for the £1345 this is a superb cartridge and great VFM, great soundstage and lots of detail and control, and quiet in the groove. Would be worth borrowing Hugo's demo SL. I ended up buying a Benz Micro LP-S from Hendrick at Lyprodukter for an excellent price which is another step up, he offers a money back guarantee if you are not happy, PM me if your interested. The LP-S is superb detailed cartridge, and does not colour the music IMO.

Let me know how you get on with your isolation experiments.

Cheers

Adrian

[Spectral Morn]

Back in the day, I ran my Valdi sans base board and supported by small Michell Tender Feet, I replaced those with brass cones, but I can't recall who made them. However the biggest upgrade was moving from a Target TT wall shelf to a three legged Rata Torlyte turntable floor stand.

https://img.canuckaudiomart.com/uploads/63/116479_large_99b09e0a0e7e3b7398736fd91533599b.jpg

Setting the Valdi on that was transformative regarding the sound. Well worth looking out for one. I sold mine to the same loser I sold my ET2 arm to, who was to sell it back to me, if he was to sell it. Guess what, he didn't.

[AJSki2fly]

Thanks for the advice, I will keep and eye out for one.

[chris@panteg]

Hi Chris

I have removed the baseboard and fitted 25mm sorbothane feet one each corner attached with thin double sided carpet tape, the result is better soundstage definition and more control at the bottom end.

You could also try these, Mr SJS said that he used inexpensive inverted brass spikes into the plinth and that he found that best:-

3Set-hifi-28mm-Speaker-Spike-Stand-Amp-Isolation-feet-Base-brass-spikes (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/3Set-hifi-28mm-Speaker-Spike-Stand-Amp-Isolation-feet-Base-brass-spikes/232021295488?hash=item36058c0180:g:LT0AAOSwLpdW8fL 4)

or ebony ones, which has a very good damping properties and is often used for tonearm mounting boards

HIFI-Ebony-Wood-Speaker-Spike-Isolation-Stand-CD-Amp-Feet- (https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/3Set-HIFI-Ebony-Wood-Speaker-Spike-Isolation-Stand-CD-Amp-Feet-BASE/232025073673?hash=item3605c5a809:g:XzwAAOSwtnpXlM2 G)

I have tried a Hana SL and found it to be extremely good, similar in sound to a Benz Micro Wood S but quieter in the groove, I also tried a Phasemation PP-300 (from Hugo at Ammonite Audio) I have to say that for the £1345 this is a superb cartridge and great VFM, great soundstage and lots of detail and control, and quiet in the groove. Would be worth borrowing Hugo's demo SL. I ended up buying a Benz Micro LP-S from Hendrick at Lyprodukter for an excellent price which is another step up, he offers a money back guarantee if you are not happy, PM me if your interested. The LP-S is superb detailed cartridge, and does not colour the music IMO.

Let me know how you get on with your isolation experiments.

Cheers

Adrian

Thanks, those look very nice.

[chris@panteg]

Back in the day, I ran my Valdi sans base board and supported by small Michell Tender Feet, I replaced those with brass cones, but I can't recall who made them. However the biggest upgrade was moving from a Target TT wall shelf to a three legged Rata Torlyte turntable floor stand.

https://img.canuckaudiomart.com/uploads/63/116479_large_99b09e0a0e7e3b7398736fd91533599b.jpg

Setting the Valdi on that was transformative regarding the sound. Well worth looking out for one. I sold mine to the same loser I sold my ET2 arm to, who was to sell it back to me, if he was to sell it. Guess what, he didn't.

My friend John has one those, it's the best support for a voyd, really makes it sing.
Zero energy storage.

[ovlov854]

Well after an awful delay and much dicking about my Valdi is set, levelled and the AN arm 1 V2 installed and set up. Much swearing at the stiffness of the armlead but finally........:steam:

But I still cannot get the belt on....I've tried wire string and elastic bands
Any advice or an expert in the Midlands area??

[AJSki2fly]

I cannot remember if the valdi is 1 2 or 3 motor drive but I used this method on 3 motor drive Voyd. Get small Allen keys or similar, you need one for each motor.

Put platter on soft cloth upside down, fit drive belt on inner ring of platter. At a motor point catch the rubber belt with short length of Allen key pull it to the out edge stretching band and then using cello tape fix the Allen key in positioning keeping the band hard against outer edge. Note I found wrapping the Allen key tightly with insulation tape gave the cellotape something to grip.

Once all points done for each motor pulley carefully lift platter into position and then one by one release the Allen keys and remove the cellotape, when doing this try to not move the platter.

Once you have done it a few times it will be easy.

[ovlov854]

I cannot remember if the valdi is 1 2 or 3 motor drive but I used this method on 3 motor drive Voyd. Get small Allen keys or similar, you need one for each motor.

Put platter on soft cloth upside down, fit drive belt on inner ring of platter. At a motor point catch the rubber belt with short length of Allen key pull it to the out edge stretching band and then using cello tape fix the Allen key in positioning keeping the band hard against outer edge. Note I found wrapping the Allen key tightly with insulation tape gave the cellotape something to grip.

Once all points done for each motor pulley carefully lift platter into position and then one by one release the Allen keys and remove the cellotape, when doing this try to not move the platter.

Once you have done it a few times it will be easy.

:steam::steam:

Right have now got the belt on a few time but keeps slipping off.....keep trying!!

[AJSki2fly]

:steam::steam:

Right have now got the belt on a few time but keeps slipping off.....keep trying!!

OK if this is the original belt or is old then it has probably stretched and you need to purchase a new one. https://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=m570.l1313&_nkw=VOYD+VALDI+belt&_sacat=0

I have a 3 motor drive Voyd and the belt thickness for it was critical to ensure the speed was correct for mine it needed to be 0.5mm thick apart from the correct length, one of the above should be good. By the way they do not like being left sitting for months on end, 6 months or more and they will start to deform, best to use it at least every other week, or if not in use for a long period take the belt of the spindle(s).

By the way best to use thin nitrile gloves or similar when handling the belt to stop grease from you hands getting on it, or it might slip.

[chris@panteg]

Belt must be stretched, new belt required.

[Spectral Morn]

Belt must be stretched, new belt required.

Or two motor spindles have dirt on them, same with the platter. Clean with isopropyl alcohol. If that doesn’t work then yes its the belt, try cleaning it and if that fails then new belt needed. Voyd supplied a metal rod belt fitter as I recall. I had a Valdi, wish I had never sold it.

[chris@panteg]

Yes, it's well worth cleaning the motor spindles, I made the belt fitting tool myself out of a bit of coat hanger wire from a template.

Works a treat.

[ovlov854]

Hey Guys.....we have limited liftoff. Got the new belt to stay on using rubber bands to hold belt.
It turns and stays on. now to check playing weight and carefully move it into position.
Watch this space

[AJSki2fly]

Hey Guys.....we have limited liftoff. Got the new belt to stay on using rubber bands to hold belt.
It turns and stays on. now to check playing weight and carefully move it into position.
Watch this space

That's great news, keep us posted once you have had a listen.

By the way it pays to take your time and ensure the platter is dead level. This can be tricky to do but once set up I found remains stable. I got two 4" by 4" lengths of wood and placed them on a dead level table and then placed the Voyd on them so that I could get to the level adjustment screws with a short screwdriver. I used a small accurate spirit bubble placed on the platter to check it. Once levelled then I carefully moved the TT to where it was to sit. You could do this process where the TT is going to sit using the 4" by 4" wood blocks and then lift the plinth and get someone else to remove them, then carefully lower the TT down.

[ovlov854]

Thanks for that info
Well here it is ......set up but not yet on the rack..............

https://i.imgur.com/lcj01ka.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/HUMzCji.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/cdD1PwJ.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/vuyRsVt.jpg

Watch this space

[ovlov854]

Well its now up and running and sounds OK so far but somewhat different to the LP12 but it would wouldn't it?

My grateful thanks to all that gave advice on this somewhat idiosyncratic deck

[Frankyc2003]

Thanks for that info
Well here it is ......set up but not yet on the rack..............

https://i.imgur.com/lcj01ka.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/HUMzCji.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/cdD1PwJ.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/vuyRsVt.jpg

Watch this space

Very very tasty!
I would love to hear it in action!
Always wondered about multiple motors TT...

Enjoy!

[ovlov854]

Well........................
I have now been able to play a few albums on the Valdi and I am more impressed than I thought I would be. The mid is more pronounced with more detail but the top is a little fizzy. But it rocks along with plenty of PRAT
I am awaiting the arrival of a test record to make final adjustments
The fizz may be the Denon 103R but we will see.

Picked the wrong time to sell a highly specced LP12 :doh:

Again my grateful thanks to all the advice and help from members

[chris@panteg]

Could well be the Denon? But a cracking turntable! I've had my second Voyd for nearly a year now and am absolutely delighted with it, thanks again to Simon of SJS for servicing the psu.

Yes a dreadful time for pretty much anything really, perhaps hold on to the Linn until this is over, though it could be a while?

[ovlov854]

Well now properly installed and on my rack.
A few adjustments and it sounds pretty damn good and rather beautiful
https://i.imgur.com/KCfrdys.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/mWsGmiz.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/WwwlXpi.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/2FaTaRU.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/XKre7Nq.jpg

[AJSki2fly]

Great, enjoy the music

[chris@panteg]

Looks fabulous, really like that finish and the Audionote arm looks perfect on the valdi.
Enjoy!

[chris@panteg]

A little update for my Voyd, just upgraded the platter to the lexan reference platter.
A nice little lift in performance, I didn't think I would come across one to be honest but I found one, not mint but very pleased with it.

Better resolution and focus, bit more of everything really, worthwhile upgrade.

[Jag]

The Voyd design is an interesting one and I have a few including a Valdi of later spec I believe with the green logo on the PSU. One thing I wanted to do was fit a reference bearing and Lexan platter on them to see if it made any improvements to an already good performance so tempted to do that soon. I was lucky enough to buy 2 lexan platters and 2 reference bearings so it is feasible but I am also intrigued with the option of different materials for the arm board like ebony, brass etc so if anyone has any spare made up I will be intrigued to buy and try.

[chris@panteg]

The Voyd design is an interesting one and I have a few including a Valdi of later spec I believe with the green logo on the PSU. One thing I wanted to do was fit a reference bearing and Lexan platter on them to see if it made any improvements to an already good performance so tempted to do that soon. I was lucky enough to buy 2 lexan platters and 2 reference bearings so it is feasible but I am also intrigued with the option of different materials for the arm board like ebony, brass etc so if anyone has any spare made up I will be intrigued to buy and try.

Simon of SJS usually has something made up, best person to ask really, with the bearings you have, is it both the main bearing and the inner housing?

[Jag]

Hi Chris, yes 2 complete units of main bearing and matched housing that took me a while to find new. The idea was to upgrade my regular 3 motor Voyd and the Valdi so will be contacting Simon regards to ebony and brass arm boards.

Not too long ago I was about to pull the trigger on a minty Voyd Reference but the seller backed down even though I was prepared to complete the deal immediately for asking price, oh well I thought to myself so bought an Audio Note UK S9 step up and can not really complain. One day a Voyd Refernce in good clean condition will turn up but I am not in a rush because the vinyl collection is growing rather quckly and I can not really complain and after all it's the music that is ultimately more important than the equipment to a certain extent.....or so I keep telling myself.

[chris@panteg]

Hi Chris, yes 2 complete units of main bearing and matched housing that took me a while to find new. The idea was to upgrade my regular 3 motor Voyd and the Valdi so will be contacting Simon regards to ebony and brass arm boards.

Not too long ago I was about to pull the trigger on a minty Voyd Reference but the seller backed down even though I was prepared to complete the deal immediately for asking price, oh well I thought to myself so bought an Audio Note UK S9 step up and can not really complain. One day a Voyd Refernce in good clean condition will turn up but I am not in a rush because the vinyl collection is growing rather quckly and I can not really complain and after all it's the music thlat is ultimately more important than the equipment to a certain extent.....or so I keep telling myself.

Hi Jagtar
Yes the music is what matters but the kit does somehow become an obsession or should that be possession? ��
An S9, oh my, have you used a number of arms with your Voyd? I'm currently running the SME V but have been informed that I should try the Audionote arm 3 and obviously a suitable cartridge.

[Jag]

Hi Chris
The Audio Note Arm 3 MK2 is a good performer and I owned one for a while, I was happy with it with an IO-2 cartridge that I sold to a fellow AOS member as well as other things so seemed to be a reasonably good combination but I was not 100% happy when comparing it to late Zeta that had been silver rewired and checked over by Audio Origami. I also tried the oter arms in my collection like the later Mission Mechanic's as one has Ikeda silver wiring and the other has Helius silver wiring and I felt the Mission Mechanic arms just edged the Zeta and all 3 edged the Audio Note Arm 3 MK2.

This was on a well set up Voyd regular 3 motor version so all tested on my system which is Voyd/Zeta/Mission Mechanic/IO-2/AN SU9 SUT/AN-M8 Phono/AN-P4 Balanced or Living Voice Argento/AN-E SEC Sig and Sogon wiring as well as AN-SOOTTO interconnects. I think the personal preference factor plays a major role in what one likes in the reproduction of music and I believe that we all have varying sensitivity to the spectrum of sound as well as the loudness levels. I have other arms in the collection but the IO-2 was a tad too heavy in my Bruer Type 5a even with a heavier counterweight.

I know what you mean about obsession and or possession, both play a role in most audio equipment but I am actually trying to thin down the gear I do not use, mainly the large bulky items as the kids want to access all the rooms in the house now because they are growing up so quickly so it makes sense to sell off unused bits and bobs and save the money for other things like their education. I am dreading trying to organise all the vinyl LP's and CD's etc as well as sealed cassette tapes, this serious hobby does take over a bit:)

[chris@panteg]

Hi Jag
Thanks for the reply, that is very interesting and I agree about personal preferences, to be honest I have the SME V simply because of an opportunity I couldn't refuse, I never really intended to own one, the price has become prohibitive, so it's just pure luck that I knew someone who was happy to part ex my 309 and I got a fantastic deal.

Thing is I've only heard it with the AT33EV so far so my intention is to try another cartridge before I do anything else, and I think it's going to be the Hana SL or ML and see how it goes.

[ovlov854]

For all us Voyd users there is an interesting AN arm on the 'bay

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Audio-Note-AN-1S-Tonearm-Silver-QSSC-cable-6-wire/174271525691?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649

[sjs]

For all us Voyd users there is an interesting AN arm on the 'bay

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Audio-Note-AN-1S-Tonearm-Silver-QSSC-cable-6-wire/174271525691?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649

It is also on AoS, for less :)
https://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?67385-Audio-Note-AN-1S-tonearm&p=1151880#post1151880

Open to offers if it avoids eBay

[chris@panteg]

Hi Simon, are you using the Audionote arm 3 now?

[sjs]

Hi Simon, are you using the Audionote arm 3 now?I have an Audio Note Arm 1-3 V2 with Ortofon MC70 Anniversary on the Ref, and an FR-64S with an AN UK IO 1 on the 0.5 Ref at the moment.

I would like to try a Kuzma 4Point 9 in the near future and have an arm board on it's way at the moment.

Sent from my SM-G960F using Tapatalk

[ovlov854]

Can anyone suggest a suitable oil to use to replenish/replace the oil in the bearing of my Voyd Valdi?
Also getting a faint but audible tick from one or both of the motors. I have tried a little silicone spray which has improved things a little.
Any ideas? :scratch:

[AJSki2fly]

The tick is due to one of the motor bearing adjusters needing slightly tightening or replacing. Believe or not they are the old style plastic number plate bolts, do not over tighten.

There is a great anti friction oil I will look into p tomorrow


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[fordy]

I’ve got a bit of a ‘pop’ through my amp when I switch my Voyd on (the switch on the TT, not the PSU). Any ideas how to fix it? I was thinking about a cap across the switch but have no idea what cap and couldn’t really fathom the switch. Any ideas folks?

Nice pic just for the thread
https://i.postimg.cc/HkKP5qT9/CBF5-FAB5-5-D39-4-B0-E-8-AC6-A66366697817.jpg (https://postimg.cc/QFQbZn9F)

[chris@panteg]

I get that, all Voyds have this issue with either the switch or the psu switch, Simon is probably the best to ask.