Matt The Funk Firm and Houdini the latest offering from Funk.

[matodono1]

Hello All,

At Marco's request (advisement) I am on here to reintroduce myself to the forum.

I was a regular on the Yahoo Spendor users group for some years and have been into audio since my early teens.

For years I was a close friend to Amar Biswas (before he went rogue) and Glenn Croft of the then Eminent Audio.

After an accident I was encouraged to learn something new (as it was no longer possible to pursue my career as an electronics engineer).
So I retrained as a web and graphic designer and produced websites for Eminent Audio, Classique Sounds, Icon Audio, The Funk Firm and later Croft Acoustics.
Also I formed a company adapting cars for other wheelchair users working under a franchise with a supplier of adaptive driving aids Techmobility based in Colchester.

A few years ago a serious illness meant that I had to give up all of my business interests as I was hospitalised for the best part of a year.

For the last two years I have been heavily involved in a disability related charity Flying Scholarships for Disabled People and last year was awarded a scholarship to attain a light aircraft pilots license (LAPL). For me a lifelong dream to learn to fly was accomplished.

Recently I have been working again with my long time friend Arthur Khoubesserian on a very exciting new project which I recently introduced to Marco and which I see has already been announced exclusively here on A of S.

Full disclosure! I am a cable guy (don't shoot!) For years I have been developing and manufacturing my own range of interconnect cables, mains leads, digital and speaker cables.
Which are currently branded Pink Triangle (although that might change), so far I sell via personal contacts and word of mouth. Discussions are IP with Marco who may be kind enough to review some time in the future.

Mainly I am here to promote and discuss Funk's new offering and the latest revelation from the mad scientist himself Arthur Khoubesserian the "Houdini" which is truly magic and the cause of great excitement on our part as it truly delivers great sound.

Some more about the Funk Houdini in the magazine ad which I have produced earlier today. Also visit http://www.thefunkfirm.co.uk for latest news and product offerings. We are currently very busy with everything that a new product launch entails.

Also please join our Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1189164577798708 for all latest news and updates.

28481

Over to you for any comments or questions.

Best Matt.

[Marco]

Hi Matt :wave:

Welcome to AoS!

Nice to see you back mate, or rather here now representing Funk and focussing on your exciting new project! As you know, I'm using the Houdini to great effect, and am absolutely delighted with it:)

Anyway, hope you enjoy it here and get stuck into discussions, especially about Funk... In that respect, could you ask Arthur to access his 'FunkArt' account and come and join the party! And also one of you populate your (now opened) dedicated trade room, see here: https://theartofsound.net/forum/forumdisplay.php?132-FunkArt

You can open the room by posting a new thread there about anything you want:cool:

Marco.

[matodono1]

Thanks Marco,

I will try by best with Arthur but as you can appreciate he is a man with a lot on his shoulders.

Thanks so much with all your help and support and I am happy you are enjoying your Houdini and what it does.

Thanks also for the link I will post something very soon.

bye for now, Matt.

[Marco]

No worries, mate. Look forward to it!:)

Marco.

[RobbieGong]

Hello All,

At Marco's request (advisement) I am on here to reintroduce myself to the forum.

I was a regular on the Yahoo Spendor users group for some years and have been into audio since my early teens.

For years I was a close friend to Amar Biswas (before he went rogue) and Glenn Croft of the then Eminent Audio.

After an accident I was encouraged to learn something new (as it was no longer possible to pursue my career as an electronics engineer).
So I retrained as a web and graphic designer and produced websites for Eminent Audio, Classique Sounds, Icon Audio, The Funk Firm and later Croft Acoustics.
Also I formed a company adapting cars for other wheelchair users working under a franchise with a supplier of adaptive driving aids Techmobility based in Colchester.

A few years ago a serious illness meant that I had to give up all of my business interests as I was hospitalised for the best part of a year.

For the last two years I have been heavily involved in a disability related charity Flying Scholarships for Disabled People and last year was awarded a scholarship to attain a light aircraft pilots license (LAPL). For me a lifelong dream to learn to fly was accomplished.

Recently I have been working again with my long time friend Arthur Khoubesserian on a very exciting new project which I recently introduced to Marco and which I see has already been announced exclusively here on A of S.

Full disclosure! I am a cable guy (don't shoot!) For years I have been developing and manufacturing my own range of interconnect cables, mains leads, digital and speaker cables.
Which are currently branded Pink Triangle (although that might change), so far I sell via personal contacts and word of mouth. Discussions are IP with Marco who may be kind enough to review some time in the future.

Mainly I am here to promote and discuss Funk's new offering and the latest revelation from the mad scientist himself Arthur Khoubesserian the "Houdini" which is truly magic and the cause of great excitement on our part as it truly delivers great sound.

Some more about the Funk Houdini in the magazine ad which I have produced earlier today. Also visit http://www.thefunkfirm.co.uk for latest news and product offerings. We are currently very busy with everything that a new product launch entails.

Also please join our Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1189164577798708 for all latest news and updates.

28481

Over to you for any comments or questions.

Best Matt.

Thanks for the interesting introduction and information Matt :)

[matodono1]

The pleasure is mine. Thank you.

[willbewill]

Interesting, a new take on the cartridge isolator/decoupler/enabler etc.

"Suspension and a "torsion tether" - isolation and anti-twisting?

Two things to bear in mind with these devices is that they also change arm geometry between bearing and stylus and also effective mass - both can, potentially, alter the sound.

There was an interesting interview with Pierre Lurné on TNT Audio a number of years ago that discusses the cartridge/headshell interface.
http://www.tnt-audio.com/intervis/lurne_arms_e.html

[matodono1]

Interesting, a new take on the cartridge isolator/decoupler/enabler etc.

"Suspension and a "torsion tether" - isolation and anti-twisting?

Two things to bear in mind with these devices is that they also change arm geometry between bearing and stylus and also effective mass - both can, potentially, alter the sound.

There was an interesting interview with Pierre Lurné on TNT Audio a number of years ago that discusses the cartridge/headshell interface.
http://www.tnt-audio.com/intervis/lurne_arms_e.html

Thank you for your input.


To be honest you have lost me!

I will refer your comments to the Mad Scientist AK himself who will reply in due course.

But may I just say... all complex variables aside. The music just sounds so right! Sublime in fact so whatever is happening it must be good!

Kind regards, Matt.

[AJSki2fly]

Hi Matt,

Great intro, and thanks for the info.

I j ust joined the Facebook page and once accepted I am more than happy to try out the Houdini on my Project Signature 10, I am always willing to see if a small change can bring an improvement to the resulting soundscape from my system.

Cheers

Adrian

[CageyH]

Hi Matt,
I am already a member of the Funk FB group. I joined after seeing a picture of my Funkified SL1200 on there.

[matodono1]

Hi Adrian,

Yes I just this minute accepted your request.

Houdini is not officially available till end of Sept but if you email Arthur at info@thefunkfirm.co.uk and say you are on both groups and have spoken to me he may be able to arrange something pre-release.

Many thanks for the welcome.

Matt.

[matodono1]

Hi Matt,
I am already a member of the Funk FB group. I joined after seeing a picture of my Funkified SL1200 on there.

Hi Kevin,

Good show!

Regards Matt.

[matodono1]

To all A of S members,

Arthur has decided that in support of A of S and also to thank Marco for his support thus far he wishes to make Houdini available early to members of this group.

Simply send Arthur a mail info@thefunkfirm.co.uk and say that you would like a pre-release press model and he will make the arrangements from there.
We are still putting together parts of the kits, packaging and graphics to complete the release. When those are available we will send them to you so you eventually get what everyone else gets.

But for now it's all about performance and the sound which they do indeed deliver.

All we ask is that you tell your friends about them.

Good luck and happy listening.

Matt.

[matodono1]

Interesting, a new take on the cartridge isolator/decoupler/enabler etc.

"Suspension and a "torsion tether" - isolation and anti-twisting?

Two things to bear in mind with these devices is that they also change arm geometry between bearing and stylus and also effective mass - both can, potentially, alter the sound.

There was an interesting interview with Pierre Lurné on TNT Audio a number of years ago that discusses the cartridge/headshell interface.
http://www.tnt-audio.com/intervis/lurne_arms_e.html

Hi Will,

Arthur has compiled a response to your question but may be having trouble logging on.

I have it but want you to get a reply from the man himself in person.

So please come back and check periodically, your question has not been forgotten.

Thanks. Matt.

[willbewill]

Thanks Matt

[FunkArt]

Interesting, a new take on the cartridge isolator/decoupler/enabler etc.

"Suspension and a "torsion tether" - isolation and anti-twisting?

Two things to bear in mind with these devices is that they also change arm geometry between bearing and stylus and also effective mass - both can, potentially, alter the sound.

There was an interesting interview with Pierre Lurné on TNT Audio a number of years ago that discusses the cartridge/headshell interface.
http://www.tnt-audio.com/intervis/lurne_arms_e.html

Hello Willbewill

Matt has brought your question to my attention and I wish I could say that there was a short answer. But alas no. So here goes...

“Houdini...Magic, or The art of making the seemingly impossible, plausible.
This decoupler has been the most difficult product to name of any product I’ve been involved with in 40 years. Normally, naming a product is to me really easy. I can’t explain it, it just is – Little Pink Thing. Little Super Deck. DaCapo. Even Preference (P.ink-Reference)
But Houdini? It started out life as Layla. The intention was correct. The product was too good to need over-playing, so aim for: understated and enhance it with a soft and friendly overtone – a female connection. It seemed a good match. The problem came with “What to do with that name?” It went no-where. So began a new trawl. Nothing settled happily. Akorn? (Big oak trees from little acorns)? Akhora? - A totally meaningless word. Name after name...
The problem came just by listening to it, and it wasn’t just me who was being blown away with this new device.
My search, to reflect the product’s somewhat extraordinary capabilities, continued
Kameleon? Sonic rainbow colours but even that, somehow missed the mark.
Play another record. I was achieving what I set out to do 40 years ago:
To better create the illusion and get closer to the master tape. I’ve been banging on about the “Master Tape” for 40 years. Why? Another quick digression.
I’m in a fortunate position...I know what a master tape is.
In fact, it’s a curse...I know what a master tape is!
At school, I was trained (hastily actively avoiding using the term “groomed!”) by my math master John Shuttleworth. He was a pro reviewer. (In fact he reviewed the original Spendor BC1).
He was also a pro recording engineer and owned Meridian Records and I went on recording sessions where I learned what good recorded sound was. Once pressed, he replayed them on what he somewhat disparagingly termed his “Groove Grinder”. The trouble was, he was right!
That’s how it began. I wanted to figure out what went wrong, from master tape (which sounded “Wunderful”) to, well, we all know what records sound like. Even if you’ve not heard a master tape, records are never quite right. Strangely that can also apply to digital, perfect as it is, and Pink Triangle have made the world’s best DAC, but that’s for another day.
I’d actually developed the theory for the decoupler some 18 years ago but then along with one or two other little gems that may or may not see the light of day – well, I am 66 now...I popped in in a drawer. There it languished till earlier this year when I started actually playing with it, productionising and refining it. The stylus hit the groove and there it really was. I likened it to having a disc version of the master tape. The same balance, the same “feel”, the same sense of scale – And I defy anyone who hears it to disagree.
One day, I realised I had the holy grail that overturned the disquiet I’ve experienced all these years.
It was “magical”. The “illusion” was there. “Houdini”. As a name it is as honest to this product as I can muster. It is left it to others to agree or not...but I’m happy.
It ticks all the boxes, the goals I set myself, oh, so many years ago: Affordable, music for the masses.
Houdini delivers and does so in spades. For 40 years, I’ve had to navigate a wretched, bitchy malicious, self-serving industry of greed that cynically brain-washes the public to feather its own nest, feeding on people’s insecurities, creating in them doubt and fear.

Along the way I have achieved it all. A turntable with the “Lowest wow, flutter and rumble of all time”. Arm technology that offers the lowest self-resonance. The best Dac in the world. The best pre-amp in the world and more...A list as staggering as it is ridiculous for one person to lay claim to.
Yet, all the while, and unbeknown to everyone, there was this one sonic element that I knew was missing. The bitch of all itches that had to be scratched, and it had been driving me nuts.

Houdini is in its very early days yet. Vanishingly few people have yet had the opportunity to see, hold and listen to it. Understandably, the claims seem Snake-oil. Smoke. Mirrors. Skills our industry excels at.
But time and again the following style of comments (this one an actual quote) are made:
“It’s now attached to a Hana ML. My word! To be fair, I was expecting an incremental change, but I seem to be getting more of everything while cutting out the “turntable” (Brand & model removed). I actually found myself turning the volume up – not because I couldn’t hear properly but because I could without fear of nasty little artefact becoming audible.”

Others are free to live their lives as they see fit but I am a theoretical and practical physicist. My life is defined by this. I have my personal line I don’t cross.
The author of the question is clearly intelligent and it is only from my misgivings about the industry, I understand when I hear people worry. The post “that they also change arm geometry between bearing and stylus” has, however, left me unhappy in its questioning. Why so?
Because I took great care in composing the text describing salient aspects of Houdini.
At this rather early stage to already start disseminating an intentionally concatenated word “torsion-tether” (and in quotes to boot), to focus on just one aspect, “torsion” attempting to draw a “potential” conclusion of “altering geometry”...How am I to answer it fairly?
Moreover, what does “Potentially” mean?
I could “Potentially” drop dead whilst writing this...
Potentially? 1 Reality: 0 (or is it the other way...hmm?)
Either the design allows geometry error, or it doesn’t.
The fact is I have gone to extraordinary lengths in the design, (then the costs to patent my ideas) to actually PREVENT such from occurring in the first instance! So to find myself defending what’s not there in ignorance of the facts is difficult.
Surely better the question: “Does it this or that?”

Another throw-away comment such as “effective mass can change the sound”.
Really?
Take the above Hana at 5g, vs a different design at, say, 13 g on the same arm. The effective mass having now been altered, do we now assign the change in sound down to this single factor? Of course not. But also there is no way we’ll really be able to dissect same, how would one ascertain this? Yet I don’t hear this of different arms or cartridges. Then, why me!
Nonetheless, I’ll attempt to answer that one as fairly as I can.
Houdini weighs in at some 2g, Increasing lump the arm sees of the Hana up to 7g from 5.
I would repeat with a standard setup add a dead 2g lump on the headshell.
Now compare to determine the sonic variation.
I put it to you that the illusion created by Houdini is somewhat different and somewhat larger than a mere 2g lump.

But what would I know? Others more talented (and certainly with far greater resources!) than me have spent the same length of time and determined, for example, that the microscopic clearances of ball races (which in fact in an arm act not as a race but a uni-pivot!) are the be-all and end-all of the sound of the turntable and arm. Or...
It is because of such “pronouncements from on high” that I despair for you the paying public.
You are utterly confused and with the prevalence of social media, Covid et al coming in thru 5G masts, does such pseudo-science find its fertile ground to germinate, with the ultimate goal of feeding the fat cats of the industry and the magazines chasing advertising revenue have been utterly complicit.
This has paralysed progress and development (Past tense. Gone.)
(What beneficial progress can you point to?)
What is left is a jaded, dissatisfied market.
That is not who I am nor what I want.

For now, how about we just forget the “potential” and simply just evaluate the “what is”, when hopefully, we might enjoy the “physical” itself? It is after all, as real as we can make the illusion.
Despite all the other achievements, believe it or not, if I only have Houdini to define my legacy, you won’t hear me complain.

Regards... A

[RobbieGong]

Interesting read Arthur.

My thoughts at that the Houdini has many curious and intrigued.

It is early days BUT, the testimonies will definitely start to come ......

[matodono1]

Interesting read Arthur.

My thoughts at that the Houdini has many curious and intrigued.

It is early days BUT, the testimonies will definitely start to come ......

Hi Robbie,

So far only about 25 Hifi trade and 10 or so public own Houdini’s

It is very early but here are three.

I don't have time to go into it right now, but feck me that isolator is unbelievable, biggest improvement I've ever heard with any upgrade.
It's better EVERYWHERE

Dr Sanjey Rai (Funk Safire Fxr)

Holy friggin Eck... The very best most worth it £300 I've ever spent.
Clean, separation, head room.. totally gob smacked... Best of all the Mrs can hear it too.

Kevin Lodge (Funk Gett F7 arm)

Thanks Matt,

I always dreamed of a system that would sound as good as yours.
This one little gadget has made it so damn close. Just wow!

Ray Cluer (Linn Sondek Ittok)

Not one person has said a bad word thus far.

This is the next big thing in Analog!

Houdini takes the “tone” out of “tonearm”!

Regards, Matt.

[RobbieGong]

Hi Robbie,

So far only about 25 Hifi trade and 10 or so public own Houdini’s

It is very early but here are three.

I don't have time to go into it right now, but feck me that isolator is unbelievable, biggest improvement I've ever heard with any upgrade.
It's better EVERYWHERE

Dr Sanjey Rai (Funk Safire Fxr)

Holy friggin Eck... The very best most worth it £300 I've ever spent.
Clean, separation, head room.. totally gob smacked... Best of all the Mrs can hear it too.

Kevin Lodge (Funk Gett F7 arm)

Thanks Matt,

I always dreamed of a system that would sound as good as yours.
This one little gadget has made it so damn close. Just wow!

Ray Cluer (Linn Sondek Ittok)

Not one person has said a bad word thus far.

This is the next big thing in Analog!

Houdini takes the “tone” out of “tonearm”!

Regards, Matt.

Excellent, more are gonna come........ ;)

[Marco]

What about you, Robbo - when will you be joining the party?

Trust me, you *NEED* one of these babies! I know how much you value the accurate reproduction of the music contained in those grooves, and in that respect the Houdini will significantly improve even the superb sound you're getting now, and truly 'unleash the beast' in your Cadenza Black!:eek::trust:

;)

Marco.

[RobbieGong]

What about you, Robbo - when will you be joining the party?

Trust me, you *NEED* one of these babies! I know how much you value the accurate reproduction of the music contained in those grooves, and in that respect the Houdini will significantly improve even the superb sound you're getting now, and truly 'unleash the beast' in your Cadenza Black!:eek::trust:

;)

Marco.

:) It's on mi radar Marco, when I've sold a few more bits / duplicate vinyl on ebay to raise funds.

Wont be looking forward to the re-adjusting, dialling in vta - sweet-spot bit though. With the mad fussy, FGS stylus profile, sticking pins in mi eyes sometimes feels like it would probably be less painful :(

[matodono1]

:) It's on mi radar Marco, when I've sold a few more bits / duplicate vinyl on ebay to raise funds.

Wont be looking forward to the re-adjusting, dialling in vta - sweet-spot bit though. With the mad fussy, FGS stylus profile, sticking pins in mi eyes sometimes feels like it would probably be less painful :(

I spoke to Marco about setup of these fussy stylus profiles. Sounds like a nightmare (me never moving outside of popular convention). Marco what is your current experience of setup with Houdini and exotic carts?
Or actually I should wait until you have your production version arriving Friday.

Matt.

[Columbo]

I would imagine that if an arm was isolated itself from a deck and it's drive noise and vibrations, along with any picked up from acoustic transmission, whatever effects from the device would be greatly reduced. Off the top of my head, I can't think of any deck that effectively isolates an arm. The only arm I can think of that is in effect decoupled from a deck is The Well Tempered Arm. The revised version hangs from a gantry and held in a bath of silicone. A golf ball structure was chosen to maximize surface area and help aid a rigid coupling.

[matodono1]

I would imagine that if an arm was isolated itself from a deck and it's drive noise and vibrations, along with any picked up from acoustic transmission, whatever effects from the device would be greatly reduced. Off the top of my head, I can't think of any deck that effectively isolates an arm. The only arm I can think of that is in effect decoupled from a deck is The Well Tempered Arm. The revised version hangs from a gantry and held in a bath of silicone. A golf ball structure was chosen to maximize surface area and help aid a rigid coupling.

Just to clarify. The Houdini decouples the cartridge from the arm. As long as the arm can hold the cart in the groove, track and traverse we no longer care about what else it does. In addition you may be able to isolate an arm from a deck but a non decoupled arm will pick up external energy both from the cart itself and it's environment. All of this puts the "tone" in tonearm.

Hope that is helpful

Matt.

28521

[willbewill]

Looking forward to trying one - end of September?

[AJSki2fly]

As soon as I can get the cash together then I will be trying one out as well.

[matodono1]

Looking forward to trying one - end of September?

Hi Will. If you drop Arthur an email to info@thefunkfirm.co.uk You can have one now as we have extended an offer to A of S members.

Kind regards, Matt.

[matodono1]

As soon as I can get the cash together then I will be trying one out as well.

Hi,

You’ll be so glad you did.

Kind regards, Matt.

[The Black Adder]

Hi Matt.

Welcome to AOS :) Looks very interesting.

I'm looking for interesting things to review on my website http://www.tannoyista.com

Let me know if it's of interest :)

[willbewill]

Hi Will. If you drop Arthur an email to info@thefunkfirm.co.uk You can have one now as we have extended an offer to A of S members.

Kind regards, Matt.

Many thanks Matt, I've just done so.

[Marco]

I spoke to Marco about setup of these fussy stylus profiles. Sounds like a nightmare (me never moving outside of popular convention). Marco what is your current experience of setup with Houdini and exotic carts?


Well, as I no longer use "exotic carts", I wouldn't know;)

But having used them in the past, I *do* know that dialling in optimal VTA can be a lengthy and royal PITA!

Still, knowing the potential sonic gains that the Houdini would offer, if I had such a cartridge now, I'd defo persevere, as I'd know that the BIG GRIN on my chops, after fitting a Houdini and successfully optimising VTA, would be well worth it!:D

Marco.

[Marco]

As soon as I can get the cash together then I will be trying one out as well.

Nice one, Adrian. I think you'll find the improvements it brings, just like Rolls Royce say, more than 'adequate'...:eyebrows:;)

Welcome on board too, will!:thumbsup:

Marco.

[willbewill]

Mine will be despatched on Monday.

[Columbo]

Just to clarify. The Houdini decouples the cartridge from the arm. As long as the arm can hold the cart in the groove, track and traverse we no longer care about what else it does. In addition you may be able to isolate an arm from a deck but a non decoupled arm will pick up external energy both from the cart itself and it's environment. All of this puts the "tone" in tonearm.

Hope that is helpful

Matt.

28521I'm well aware of all that.

I doesn't change my view, though.

[Wakefield Turntables]

Mine will be despatched on Monday.

Good news, can't wait to hear your review.

[matodono1]

Mine will be despatched on Monday.

Well done Will. Who's next?

Matt.

https://scontent.flhr4-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/119399296_10222052513397141_8505464344999699833_o. jpg?_nc_cat=100&_nc_sid=0d5531&_nc_ohc=H-KWTz9qpSkAX9yYhWF&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr4-2.fna&oh=2e4bd880bd16c6a27f5d3fe9cd88c058&oe=5F83FAE9

[matodono1]

I'm well aware of all that.

I doesn't change my view, though.

Let's dispense with theorising with what Houdini will and will not do. Arthur and I have spent weeks dealing with industry experts that all have had opinions about the workability and effects of the technology both positive and negative.

With Houdini Arthur has created yet another massive almost earth shattering break with convention. All conjecture has thus far been shattered for all those who simply sat back and auditioned the results.

The response once heard is universally positive. Houdini simply allows the cartridge to make wonderful music.

With Houdini you simply have to look beyond. Or even better "hear for yourself".

Kind regards, Matt.

[Columbo]

No-one entitled to have to have their own point of view?

[Marco]

Hi Frank,

I don't think that Matt's not accepting your POV or necessarily disagreeing with what you're saying; simply outlining the, IME, very real benefits that the Houdini brings to the party:)

Put it this way (and I'm being serious when I say this), I'd rather use, say, a Rega RB300, fitted with a Houdini (and one's cartridge of choice), than the likes of an SME V, with the same cartridge, bolted firmly to its headshell, as IMO the effect of the Houdini, as a decoupling device, outweighs [by essentially levelling the playing field] the usual benefits of a superior arm - yes it's *that* significant...

That's why the £300 asking price for the Houdini must be judged in that context, and why, since its birth, the role of the tonearm/headshell now has to be assessed in an entirely different way!

Marco.

[matodono1]

Well, as I no longer use "exotic carts", I wouldn't know;)

But having used them in the past, I *do* know that dialling in optimal VTA can be a lengthy and royal PITA!

Still, knowing the potential sonic gains that the Houdini would offer, if I had such a cartridge now, I'd defo persevere, as I'd know that the BIG GRIN on my chops, after fitting a Houdini and successfully optimising VTA, would be well worth it!:D

Marco.

Well Yes! Exactly! Thanks Marco.

[matodono1]

Hi Frank,

I don't think that Matt's not accepting your POV or necessarily disagreeing with what you're saying; simply outlining the, IME, very real benefits that the Houdini brings to the party:)

Put it this way (and I'm being serious when I say this), I'd rather use, say, a Rega RB300, fitted with a Houdini (and one's cartridge of choice), than the likes of an SME V, with the same cartridge, bolted firmly to its headshell, as IMO the effect of the Houdini, as a decoupling device, outweighs [by essentially levelling the playing field] the usual benefits of a superior arm - yes it's *that* significant...

That's why the £300 asking price for the Houdini must be judged in that context, and why, since its birth, the role of the tonearm/headshell now has to be assessed in an entirely different way!

Marco.

Thanks again Marco. Rather more eloquent than my "we no longer care what the arm does" comment. I did warn you that I wasn't very good at forums. :lol::lol::eyebrows:

[matodono1]

No-one entitled to have to have their own point of view?

Yes of course, but how can we be dismissive or even cynical about a product that has not even been auditioned.

Of course I understand how. This industry is filled with so much snakeoil and bullcrap that we have been conditioned to dismiss.

But on here your own friend Marco is singing the praises of this new and unique product. And yes Houdini flies in the face of convention.

I am on here obviously in a trade capacity to promote and market a revolutionary device and I expect to meet resistance. I have no problem with you on that.

But please understand that I also have a job to counter it.

I for one have taken no offence and I hope your position is the same, debate is healthy and I welcome it in every case.

Kind regards, Matt.

[Johnny nocash]

Hi Marco or Matt,
Do you think the Houdini would improve the sound from a SME V & cartridge of choice?

[Marco]

Yes of course! Quite simply, it would improve the sound of ANY tonearm in the world that doesn't enable the partnering cartridge to be decoupled from its headshell, such is level of music that is lost by NOT doing so:)

Marco.

[matodono1]

Hi Marco or Matt,
Do you think the Houdini would improve the sound from a SME V & cartridge of choice?

I think what Marco said was that he would prefer an RB300 modified with Houdini and cart of choice over an SME V without Houdini and said cartridge.

I think I am correct in saying that I am the only person in the world that has heard both (unmodifed and modified).

Two weeks ago I modified a Rega RP6, RB303 and Goldring 1042 with Achromat and Houdini, The very next day I fitted a Houdini and Achromat to a SME 10 deck, SME V tonearm and Benz LP S moving coil cartridge.
Now before I fitted the Houdini and Achromat do not get me wrong the SME was performing beautifully and making some amazing music. But also in some areas it sounded a little flat and in some ways I was preferring the sound of the modified Rega from the day before.
That being said things were about to change. We dropped the Achromat on first and James the owner immediately gave it a thumbs up and me permission to fit the Houdini. Which took a little while as I had to make a custom spacer to accomodate that arm.
We set up VTA and tracking force and sat down to hear the Houdini for the first time on his SME.

Jame's last comment was "You know this is one of the best decks in the world with one of the best arms in the world with one of the best cartridges in the world, I dont' expect this to be much different."

Well thirty seconds later his head was almost falling off, such was the improvement. Well for us it is very simple All arms resonate to a greater or lesser degree and a non-decoupled cart with pick it up and play the resulting distortion.
Some arms are better than others which is why they all sound different but they ALL do it.

With Houdini virtually all arms are levelled, they nearly all now sound the same but not quite, better arms have the slight edge. In James case the difference was that the Benz LP S is such a lovely cart especially played through a very nice pair of Martin Logans. But essentially 12K of kit versus 1.5 K of kit with Houdini... very little difference.

I know these are outrageous claims for now you'll just have to take my word for it.

Soon Houdini will be everywhere and my fantasy will be reality for many of you. Then what I say will make more sense.

Kind regards, Matt.

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[Marco]

I think what Marco said was that he would prefer an RB300 modified with Houdini and cart of choice over an SME V without Houdini and said cartridge.


Indeed, but also that I believe it would improve *ANY* tonearm currently in existence that doesn't facilitate the decoupling of the partnering cartridge from its headshell:)

What folks have to wrap their heads (or rather ears) around, is just HOW significant the decoupling aspect of the Houdini is, and also just HOW much a coupled cartridge hobbles the music signal, regardless of how well-designed the arm is!!

Marco.

[matodono1]

Indeed, but also that I believe it would improve *ANY* tonearm currently in existence that doesn't facilitate the decoupling of the partnering cartridge from its headshell:)

What folks have to wrap their heads (or rather ears) around, is just HOW significant the decoupling aspect of the Houdini is, and also just HOW much a coupled cartridge hobbles the music signal, regardless of how well-designed the arm is!!

Marco.

Yes indeed, Arthur has created a monster! We may have to get him a bodyguard! :rolleyes: :doh:

[Johnny nocash]

I did understand what Marco said.
Question: Would there be any difference in sound between a Rega 300 arm & SME V both using the same cartridge & Houdini? Or has the Houdini 'levelled the playing field' so much you couldn't tell the difference.

[matodono1]

I did understand what Marco said.
Question: Would there be any difference in sound between a Rega 300 arm & SME V both using the same cartridge & Houdini? Or has the Houdini 'levelled the playing field' so much you couldn't tell the difference.

Admittedly I have heard so far an RB250 with Ortofon Red, RB 303 with Golring 1042 and SME V with Benz LPS so that diect comparison has not been made but I obviously state that the best sounding of all was the SME V with Benz cart and Houdini fitted.

I can also say with confidence that the gap closes dramatically between cheap and expensive. (Which is why I've recommended that Arthur employs some personal security) he may need a couple of ex SAS blokes to keep him alive. :lol::lol::doh:

Arthur himself has done a fairer comparison of RB250 with AT 540ML (£250) against a Graham Phantom with same cartridge and both fitted with Houdini's on one of his flagship Super Deck Grande which has a dual arm capacity.

Arthur stated "listeners who were invited in to hear the two without Houdini to establish a reference, at this point the Graham was clearly superior. Fitting Houdini to the Graham, even the Graham was improved noticably. Doing the same to the RB250 that also improved as it would.
So next the telling comparison was when RB250 and Graham were compared. Now the shock was that differences were too close to call after much debate." So take from that what you will.

That is why we regard the Houdini a bargain at £300 as it would save you a potential arm upgrade. Houdini is "the next step in analogue."

We soon plan to set up a suitable demonstration in South East London once a week for the next eight weeks for those who wish to hear it. Appointment only (social distancing, masks, government guidelines etc) :rolleyes: info@thefunkfirm.co.uk

Hope this clarifies the matter.

Matt.

28527

[Columbo]

Sorry, and all that , Matt, put it down to the passing of years and reading perhaps one too many instances of Revelatory, Night & Day products that promise the world, when in the cold, cold light of reality, deliver something rather, rather less so.

I'm afraid I'll be sticking to my view that a goodly percentage of what your device does could be obtained from isolating the arm. I've never understood why it's not done. It's what I intend to do if I ever get round to starting on a DIY turntable.

"Tone" arm. Having had a search, the term dates back to the invention of the phonograph in 1907. I have to say, the 1907 item bears little resemblance to a pickup arm of the last 50+ years or more. Not sure why the term continues to be used when Pickup Arm would be more accurate.

Oh, and I have to say, you're making assumptions with regards "friendships" here.

[indie roehre]

My Houdini works great with Rega RB900 and the Aidas Rainbow MC. Turntable is Final Tool from Acoustic Signature.
Regards from Germany.
28528

[Marco]

But Frank, wouldn't it be rather easier simply to fit a Houdini than to isolate a tonearm? Me thinks your eternal scepticism [and perhaps stubbornness] is clouding your ability to give the Houdini a chance!;)

No offence intended... I understand an element of scepticism, based on the raft of 'snake oil' and (ultimately disappointing) hyped-up products that have been on the market for years.

But the reality is that you cannot assess the efficacy of the Houdini, or make judgements on it, unless you try one for yourself, so your assumptions are simply that: assumptions. That said, you're entitled to do what you want and think what you like, but the fact is you'll never learn anything new, if you don't try new things... Houdini genuinely does do what it says on the tin.

Also, AoS is a friendly forum, with a strong sense of community, so by default we're all friends here:)

Marco.

[matodono1]

Sorry, and all that , Matt, put it down to the passing of years and reading perhaps one too many instances of Revelatory, Night & Day products that promise the world, when in the cold, cold light of reality, deliver something rather, rather less so.

I'm afraid I'll be sticking to my view that a goodly percentage of what your device does could be obtained from isolating the arm. I've never understood why it's not done. It's what I intend to do if I ever get round to starting on a DIY turntable.

"Tone" arm. Having had a search, the term dates back to the invention of the phonograph in 1907. I have to say, the 1907 item bears little resemblance to a pickup arm of the last 50+ years or more. Not sure why the term continues to be used when Pickup Arm would be more accurate.

Oh, and I have to say, you're making assumptions with regards "friendships" here.

Ok Frank, I'm new back here. I actually do not like forums and am only here out of neccessity. I spent about five years (ten years ago) on the Yahoo Spendor Users group and that cured me of audio forums or so I thought.

As stated I am here in a trade capacity and am currently an active promoter of one product which I know to be very different. At the moment only about thirty people in the world actually own one.

Soon though that will change and I will predict that you will soon be sick of hearing about the "Funk Houdini!" When it takes off it will go big it really is what the hype says it is.

"Tonearm" or "Pickup Arm" just a matter of semantics both roads lead to the destination that the arm itself is part of the problem as well as the deck that it is attached to.
How do I know this? Simple! I have heard what happens to the sound when the arm is decoupled. The sound just opens up! It's a fantastic revelation.

Anyway I recommend that you don't change. Continue to be cynical and take all of my claims with a pinch of salt. But please do one thing. When this is released. Take advantage of
our 100% no quibble money back offer. Buy one and fit it. If it does not do what I claim then simply send it back and ask for a refund. Even better tell Arthur that I owe you a tenner and I'll post that back to you also for
your trouble in trying it. So in effect a 103% money back guarantee.

So how about that? What's to lose?

And BTW on here I did assume that Marco was everybody's friend! My bad I'm sorry. ;)

Kind regards, Matt.

[indie roehre]

My Houdini has three very big effects on sound. Much better bass attack, better with sibilants, deeper soundstage. All three effects you hear at once. First I tried the Rega RB900 with 2g Blu tack to prepare for the difference on effective mass with the 2g Houdini.

[Marco]

I did understand what Marco said.
Question: Would there be any difference in sound between a Rega 300 arm & SME V both using the same cartridge & Houdini? Or has the Houdini 'levelled the playing field' so much you couldn't tell the difference.

Hi Richard,

No, a better arm will always be a better arm (as ultimately results achieved will be governed by the weakest link), so all else being equal, the best arm fitted with a Houdini, and the same cartridge, should sound best.

However, aside from its basic function to effectively support the cartridge and allow it to accurately trace the grooves, with a Houdini, the intrinsic sonic signature ('tone') of the arm is irrelevant, as that is nullified.

The main purpose and benefit of the Houdini is to allow people who can't afford a high-end tonearm to get the same high-end sonic performance, but without spending 'high-end' money!:)

Marco.

[matodono1]

My Houdini has three very big effects on sound. Much better bass attack, better with sibilants, deeper soundstage. All three effects you hear at once. First I tried the Rega RB900 with 2g Blu tack to prepare for the difference on effective mass with the 2g Houdini.

Welcome to the group Knut.

Thanks for posting a picture of your Houdini modified setup.

Kind regards, Matt.

[Columbo]

Matt... Matt... Matt....

You seem like a decent enough chap, but I'm afraid I won't be able to avail you of your offer, kind, as it may be.

Never indulged in expensive (to me) accessory/bolt-on items. What meagre resources available, are intended to go on a DIY turntable design and arm, which of course will be decoupled. And I'll have another think about the cartridge/arm interface. Have to say all I could come up with previously was something along the lines of The Cartridge Man's device, which uses a rigid foam.

Anyway, I imagine if your item has the merit you say it has, people will buy it, if it's of interest to them.

Aye. Assumptions. Can be dangerous things to make.

[matodono1]

Matt... Matt... Matt....

You seem like a decent enough chap, but I'm afraid I won't be able to avail you of your offer, kind, as it may be.

Never indulged in expensive (to me) accessory/bolt-on items. What meagre resources available, are intended to go on a DIY turntable design and arm, which of course will be decoupled. And I'll have another think about the cartridge/arm interface. Have to say all I could come up with previously was something along the lines of The Cartridge Man's device, which uses a rigid foam.

Anyway, I imagine if your item has the merit you say it has, people will buy it, if it's of interest to them.

Aye. Assumptions. Can be dangerous things to make.

Oh well, I tried! Can't win them all Frank. :)

[Marco]

Aye. Assumptions. Can be dangerous things to make.

Yes, you know the old saying: https://www.ihasco.co.uk/blog/entry/1857/never-assume-it-makes-an-ass-out-of-u-and-me

Indeed, the whole subject of 'unconscious bias' is interesting, but particularly how it applies to the decisions we make in audio...;)

Marco.

[Firebottle]

Matt does the Houdini fit a Goldring GL75 headshell?

It looks like the limiting dimension is 20mm at the front.

[matodono1]

Matt does the Houdini fit a Goldring GL75 headshell?

It looks like the limiting dimension is 20mm at the front.

Not going to happen! Doesn't matter just use any headshell IE Technics The Houdini will delete any sonic effects that the headshell and arm have so go for an alternative.

Watch this video https://youtu.be/rvCiltG9P1A to see how the Houdini would interface a Technics but remember this headshell was adapted to answer another query. More fitting videos to come.

Regards, Matt.
http://www.mats-enterprise.co.uk/audio/mod4.jpg

[willbewill]

Not going to happen! Doesn't matter just use any headshell IE Technics The Houdini will delete any sonic effects that the headshell and arm have so go for an alternative.

Watch this video https://youtu.be/rvCiltG9P1A to see how the Houdini would interface a Technics but remember this headshell was adapted to answer another query. More fitting videos to come.

Regards, Matt.

http://www.mats-enterprise.co.uk/audio/mod4.jpg

Sorry Matt but Lenco L75 uses a proprietary headshell therefore there are no other options.

But I will check with one when mine arrives.

[matodono1]

Sorry Matt but Lenco L75 uses a proprietary headshell therefore there are no other options.

But I will check with one when mine arrives.

In that case the solution is easy. Simply take a file or a dremel to the skirts where they get in the way and get rid of the obstructing skirt material.

Sorry if that seems drastic but I assure you it will be worth it. or otherwise you can insert a shim spacer to drop the houdini below the skirt. Any firm material will do plastic, wood, balsa what ever. just make sure that the Houdini is level in the azimuth and vta.
Azimuth more important as VTA can be adjusted out.

Hope this helps,

Matt.

[mikeyb]

Matt... Matt... Matt....

You seem like a decent enough chap, but I'm afraid I won't be able to avail you of your offer, kind, as it may be.

Never indulged in expensive (to me) accessory/bolt-on items. What meagre resources available, are intended to go on a DIY turntable design and arm, which of course will be decoupled. And I'll have another think about the cartridge/arm interface. Have to say all I could come up with previously was something along the lines of The Cartridge Man's device, which uses a rigid foam.

Anyway, I imagine if your item has the merit you say it has, people will buy it, if it's of interest to them.

Aye. Assumptions. Can be dangerous things to make.

But aren’t you the ideal candidate to try one? Better to have sceptics try it than those that ‘want’ one based on other opinions.

Cheap? Can’t get cheaper than a free trial [emoji6]

And no, I don’t own one nor particularly desire one, I’ll stick with my Orsonic Headshell [emoji4]

[Columbo]

Not really. I don't have £300 to spend on a turntable accessory.

And I'm DIY sort of person. When you make something yourself - it obviously sounds better than anything else! Designer's [emoji101] [emoji851][emoji851]

[matodono1]

I'm supposed to be a web developer that was having tremendous difficulty inserting images to the forum. Sussed it now!

https://scontent.flhr4-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/119207275_10222052110787076_9170178182472267940_n. jpg?_nc_cat=110&_nc_sid=0debeb&_nc_ohc=8_9i1qQJEdcAX-LXQVT&_nc_oc=AQmZ3XdYBx91eSagDyVp9hKlW6UloTp7PTg-guFF9ENDmxXVVZC_v5yIHEVHksFiBHs&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr4-2.fna&oh=b7fc9ab7cb06c8d39179ff20cdd6cb42&oe=5F8215D0

[indie roehre]

The last step before mounting it into the Houdini. Very easy. Time you need is about 20 min at Rega RB900 without removing the tonearm.
28529

[matodono1]

If anyone interested here is the first of about six fitting videos. Which will be updated and edited properly when I have more time.

In response to Knuts helpful image here are some of the basics of fitting a Houdini, not applicable to all cases with more fitting videos to come but the basic principles are outlined.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvCiltG9P1A

[walpurgis]

What happens if you use two?

[matodono1]

What happens if you use two?

If you mean two types of cartridge I will be uploading a video soon where I will show you how one type of Houdini accomodates both types of cartridge.

Please bear with us as things are crazy at the moment.

Regards, Matt.

[Ali Tait]

I think Geoff meant two Houdini’s.

[walpurgis]

I think Geoff meant two Houdini’s.

I did.

[Kevl59]

Hi. Having read through this thread and having had a Houdini for a few days now I have to say it does exactly as described and some.. my deck is transformed to the point I will not have to do the arm upgrade I was thinking about doing. With a money back guarantee what is there to loose?

[Ali Tait]

The cartridge bolts?

[matodono1]

Hi. Having read through this thread and having had a Houdini for a few days now I have to say it does exactly as described and some.. my deck is transformed to the point I will not have to do the arm upgrade I was thinking about doing. With a money back guarantee what is there to loose?

Hi Kevin,

When devising the strategy on how we were going to market this device we had to decide early on that the product was so strong that we would have to do something to GRAB attention.
We have been very loud and brash and have made claims which would appear ludicrous and quite honestly it has been difficult because it is not in either of our nature. Expecially Arthur who is always a humble man.

But Houdini is different! It is strong and the fact that you have come on here and confirmed our claims is genuinely very much appreciated. Houdini is obviously giving you much pleasure and
after all isn't that what our hobbie/obsession is all about? When all is said and done we all just simply enjoy sitting down and listening to fine music.

So thank you Kevin for your generous feedback.

Kind regards, Matt.

[matodono1]

I did.

Two Houdini's??? Why didn't we think of that! We'll try it and let you know! :lol::ner:

[matodono1]

The cartridge bolts?

Nope! We supply it with a whole selection of bolts! :eek:

[CageyH]

Two Houdini's??? Why didn't we think of that! We'll try it and let you know! :lol::ner:

Why stop at two?

[matodono1]

Why stop at two?

The lid for a Rega would start to resemble the Walkie Talkie at Fenchurch St! :lol:

[Ali Tait]

Nope! We supply it with a whole selection of bolts! :eek:

It was a joke on Kevin’s post previous to mine...

[matodono1]

It was a joke on Kevin’s post previous to mine...

Sorry I missed that. Been a long day... :doh:

[The Vinyl Adventure]

The Houdini is a rather special item sadly Arthur made me send mine back after listening as he had a reviewer who wanted it.

I used it with a £3,000 cartridge and wasn't expecting great results being honest, I was wrong!

I need it back Arthur NOW MAN :)

[matodono1]

The Houdini is a rather special item sadly Arthur made me send mine back after listening as he had a reviewer who wanted it.

I used it with a £3,000 cartridge and wasn't expecting great results being honest, I was wrong!

I need it back Arthur NOW MAN :)

Hi David,

He knows! He knows! It was my bad for falling behind with the orders. The production process has been very very difficult to perfect in order to assure perfectly level Houdini's with acceptable VTA and perfect azimuth.
We have that nailed now so full speed ahead. So I will be building up stock ready for the few remaining items we are waiting on to be ready to ship.

Not too long now.

Matt.

[matodono1]

Hello guys so as I have previously mentioned here is a post which guides you as to which Houdini to choose.

https://scontent.flhr4-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/119485720_10222058937997752_6789875512258938273_n. jpg?_nc_cat=105&_nc_sid=0debeb&_nc_ohc=gzE6qwplwNsAX_s4iSA&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr4-1.fna&oh=eb34b9051282e9d9e9e26aa999dc67cb&oe=5F84E8C2

[CageyH]

IIRC, If you have both types of cartridge, it is the “screw to” that is the one you recommend.

[matodono1]

IIRC, If you have both types of cartridge, it is the “screw to” that is the one you recommend.

We are not recommending that you use the "Screw to" for both types because with certain types of cartridge the cleat will flex slightly. However we do realise that in certain cases there will be a need to accomodate both.
I will release a tutorial showing you how to fit both types to the "screw to" but according to your own judgement and at your own risk as it is not strictly within the intended design.

[CageyH]

We are not recommending that you use the "Screw to" for both types because with certain types of cartridge the cleat will flex slightly. However we do realise that in certain cases there will be a need to accomodate both.
I will release a tutorial showing you how to fit both types to the "screw to" but according to your own judgement and at your own risk as it is not strictly within the intended design.

Is there a risk of damage Matt? Or is it more a case that you may not benefit from the full Houdini effect?

[matodono1]

Is there a risk of damage Matt? Or is it more a case that you may not benefit from the full Houdini effect?

A couple of things. You end up having to hold two bolts in place on the cart and in place in the cleat of the Houdini, all while trying not to knock the tip off your stylus (some aren't covered or removeable).
At the same time trying to tighten it and some carts don't support the cleat wheras with an ortofon 2m you are leasurely clamping down to a flat surface. So it just isn't the same experience as using the intended other Houdini.

Now you don't have to clamp down hard so damage is unlikely but it sure is a faff. And not the ease of install we want for you guys.

But having said that some of you will be determined so we will do our best for you with disclaimers of course.

In every case as long as the suspension is not fouled and alignment, VTA and tracking force is correctly set you will always get the full benefit of Houdini.

Hope this clarifies for now. I am working on the fitting videos next.

Regards, Matt.

[matodono1]

And meanwhile in a parallel universe...

https://scontent.flhr4-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/119604725_10222060892286608_1851645901746578620_o. jpg?_nc_cat=102&_nc_sid=0debeb&_nc_ohc=mpjSvKqIL1AAX8VW51m&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr4-2.fna&oh=61984c7ee257a4c75648a077e93d1863&oe=5F836987

[indie roehre]

I try to post a picture again with a hoster
https://i.imgur.com/cQUZrXe.jpg

[matodono1]

I try to post a picture again with a hoster
https://i.imgur.com/cQUZrXe.jpg

Excellent shot!

[CageyH]

I have added my name to the list of Houdini hopefuls.
I will report back my findings honestly, as someone who has purchased this device, so I will evaluate it against what it has cost me, possibly in comparison to other upgrades I have performed.

[AndrewR]

Hi Matt,

I hope you are well. This year I have been investing quite a bit in my turntable and was really astounded by the Achromat I bought for my LP12/Keel/Karousel/Ekos 2/Lingo 2/2M Black. If I were to recommend one thing to Achromat owners, it is 'use the sticky circles' to fix it to the platter - this seems to reduce any 'micro-slippages' of the mat on the platter and massively improves the timing.

The Houdini is intriguing me - but not sure whether it would suit the suspension of an LP12.

In addition, I have some concern that the additional height would foul the arm on the lid of the turntable. There are a couple of potential options I see here:

* Look for a shallow cartridge (which only really limits it to Rega cartridges, which I am not a fan of).
* Find a low slung counter-weight for my Ekos 2. There only seems to be the Tiger Paw - but has not received good reviews for its impact on tunes. There may be other alternatives out there, but I have yet to find.

Hoping to join the party when I can.

BTW, as a potential idea to The Funk Firm - have you yet considered making a version of the Houdini that would replace the X beam in Funk arms?

All the best,

Andrew

[matodono1]

Hi Matt,

I hope you are well. This year I have been investing quite a bit in my turntable and was really astounded by the Achromat I bought for my LP12/Keel/Karousel/Ekos 2/Lingo 2/2M Black. If I were to recommend one thing to Achromat owners, it is 'use the sticky circles' to fix it to the platter - this seems to reduce any 'micro-slippages' of the mat on the platter and massively improves the timing.

The Houdini is intriguing me - but not sure whether it would suit the suspension of an LP12.

In addition, I have some concern that the additional height would foul the arm on the lid of the turntable. There are a couple of potential options I see here:

* Look for a shallow cartridge (which only really limits it to Rega cartridges, which I am not a fan of).
* Find a low slung counter-weight for my Ekos 2. There only seems to be the Tiger Paw - but has not received good reviews for its impact on tunes. There may be other alternatives out there, but I have yet to find.

Hoping to join the party when I can.

BTW, as a potential idea to The Funk Firm - have you yet considered making a version of the Houdini that would replace the X beam in Funk arms?

All the best,

Andrew


Hi Andrew,

A couple of questions and statements here so let me respond to each.

Firstly if you like what Achromat does then Houdini is the same effect as Achromat multiplied by five! It's NOT subtle.

Next: All arms resonate (Even Ivor's more exotic creations) and suspension of the LP12 has little to do with it. Houdini is suitable for ALL turntables even Linn.
In fact I am pretty proud of the fact that I am the first person in the world to fit a Houdini to a Linn Sondek, (Ittok and Ortofon Red). And please allow me to let you in on a secret!
You know that mastertape? You haven't heard it yet.

https://scontent.flhr4-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/119664464_10222088274331142_4187009616654999252_n. jpg?_nc_cat=105&_nc_sid=0debeb&_nc_ohc=x9cHNICmEdcAX8BZiEX&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr4-1.fna&oh=20395c25e20e9f17096dc98afa831fff&oe=5F89FE49

Ray Cluer the owner of the above deck (both a friend and a funk customer) is currently on various Linn Groups extolling the virtues of Houdini.

You will almost certainly foul the Lid especially with Ekos as it will need an additional spacer due to the shape of the headshell. Arthur will develop a solution to stand the lid off but not yet he is too busy.
Me personally I would just get rid of the lid (or at least temporarily till Arthur fixes it) the benefits of Houdini is worth an occasional TT dusting session. For me it would be a no brainer.

As far as deleting FdotX arms... Well not quite but Houdini has certainly set the cat amongst the pigeons even in our own camp. And thus in the future there is likely to be only one arm (final design as yet undecided).
Right now even we cannot countenance recommending a range of tonearms which even we must admit having been levelled by Houdini. So we are not going to. One competant arm will be it.

Sorry for the late reply I have not been on here for a few days. In fact is was Marco that brought your post to my attention.

Kind regards, Matt.

[CageyH]

Don’t forget that you are going to have to change the marketing blurb.

Funk Firm FX-3 Tonearm (Rega 3 point fixing)

In order to work properly cartridges need a rigid support.
For the past 100 years, however, the arms that have carried them have been anything but rigid. In 2010, Funk started an R&D program to solve this.
The result was Funk’s unique F•X Cross-Beam system (pat pend).
Rigid & low-Q, F•X has earned a giant killing reputation, which is well deserved.

As stated earlier in this thread, the Houdini may negate the need for an expensive tonearm. Time will tell, as I am still waiting (like an expectant father) for mine to arrive.

[karma67]

a question,my cartridge is an Ortofon Kontrapunkt b,like the cadenza series it has 3 ridges on top of the cartridge for azimuth adjustment,you just tighten or loosen one of the cartridge fixing bolts and it tilts to the left or right depending on which bolt is adjusted. will this still work with a Houdini?

[matodono1]

a question,my cartridge is an Ortofon Kontrapunkt b,like the cadenza series it has 3 ridges on top of the cartridge for azimuth adjustment,you just tighten or loosen one of the cartridge fixing bolts and it tilts to the left or right depending on which bolt is adjusted. will this still work with a Houdini?


We honestly do not know. However you do not need that method to adjust azimuth. Some of the early prototypes caused azimuth issues. All we did is shim the side that needed to be lower with tape until we got to where we needed. Perfectly acceptable no widgets neccessary.

Matt.

[willbewill]

Mine arrived a few days ago.

Fitted the Houdini and had many hours testing, I didn't have great results with Linn K9s but when I swapped in AT 125LC everything changed, much cleaner sound, more detail, more soundstage, etc. In fact I can now listen at a louder level without it sounding louder!

Only concern I have though, and could it be a factor in the K9 results, is something Matt posted above "We are not recommending that you use the "Screw to" for both types because with certain types of cartridge the cleat will flex slightly. However we do realise that in certain cases there will be a need to accomodate both.
I will release a tutorial showing you how to fit both types to the "screw to" but according to your own judgement and at your own risk as it is not strictly within the intended design."

Given that I accidentally received the screw to model instead of the screw thru?

[Firebottle]

Does it fit in a GL75 headshell Malcolm?

[indie roehre]

for Linn K9 you need this one.
https://i.imgur.com/mwAfdkY.jpg

[matodono1]

Another satisfied Houdini owner. Still 100% approval! Who's next?

https://scontent.flhr4-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/119941201_10222106280341281_2613611814755433871_o. jpg?_nc_cat=105&_nc_sid=0debeb&_nc_ohc=R_0abEyanRQAX-8-3k7&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr4-1.fna&oh=367418032a7bbfb4d6f2f57e99d888ea&oe=5F8B05EB

Matt.

[matodono1]

Mine arrived a few days ago.

Fitted the Houdini and had many hours testing, I didn't have great results with Linn K9s but when I swapped in AT 125LC everything changed, much cleaner sound, more detail, more soundstage, etc. In fact I can now listen at a louder level without it sounding louder!

Only concern I have though, and could it be a factor in the K9 results, is something Matt posted above "We are not recommending that you use the "Screw to" for both types because with certain types of cartridge the cleat will flex slightly. However we do realise that in certain cases there will be a need to accomodate both.
I will release a tutorial showing you how to fit both types to the "screw to" but according to your own judgement and at your own risk as it is not strictly within the intended design."

Given that I accidentally received the screw to model instead of the screw thru?

I would check that you haven't fouled the suspension with a bolt that is slightly too long. There is nothing wrong with using the screw to Houdini for both types it's just the setup is a real pain for the lugg type cart. There is absolutely no reason why a K9 should be immune to Houdini's charm.

I am currently editing fitting videos where all questions should be answered.

Regards, Matt.

[matodono1]

Does it fit in a GL75 headshell Malcolm?

Not easily, Arthur is going to have to come up with a fix.

[willbewill]

I would check that you haven't fouled the suspension with a bolt that is slightly too long. There is nothing wrong with using the screw to Houdini for both types it's just the setup is a real pain for the lugg type cart. There is absolutely no reason why a K9 should be immune to Houdini's charm.

I am currently editing fitting videos where all questions should be answered.

Regards, Matt.

Thanks Matt

No there wasn't any problem with screws fouling. I set up two decks with K9s and nudeline styli and they sounded very similar. Then added the Houdini to one of them and whilst I could hear an improvement - i was A/B ing them using the a copy of same album on both decks so I could just press a button on amplifier to compare - it wasn't anywhere near the magnitude if change heard with the AT125lc. I wonder if I had already got near the limit of what the K9 could produce prior to adding the Houdini?

[willbewill]

Does it fit in a GL75 headshell Malcolm?

Not without major surgery to it or headshell.

[willbewill]

for Linn K9 you need this one.
https://i.imgur.com/mwAfdkY.jpg

That's what was ordered but I received the other model and it works just fine with AT125lc which is also screw thru. Ii actually wasn't difficult to fit, in fact it meant I didn't have to cut screws, and as Matt has now confirmed it shouldn't be a problem.

[willbewill]

Thanks Matt

No there wasn't any problem with screws fouling. I set up two decks with K9s and nudeline styli and they sounded very similar. Then added the Houdini to one of them and whilst I could hear an improvement - i was A/B ing them using the a copy of same album on both decks so I could just press a button on amplifier to compare - it wasn't anywhere near the magnitude if change heard with the AT125lc. I wonder if I had already got near the limit of what the K9 could produce prior to adding the Houdini?

Also wonder if there may have been some truth in Linn's insistence on the K9 being tightly fixed in headshell?

[matodono1]

Thanks Matt

No there wasn't any problem with screws fouling. I set up two decks with K9s and nudeline styli and they sounded very similar. Then added the Houdini to one of them and whilst I could hear an improvement - i was A/B ing them using the a copy of same album on both decks so I could just press a button on amplifier to compare - it wasn't anywhere near the magnitude if change heard with the AT125lc. I wonder if I had already got near the limit of what the K9 could produce prior to adding the Houdini?

Ok well that sounds like a reasonable explanation. And it seems as if all avenues have been explored. We cannot ask for more so thanks.

Matt.

[jahknob]

I don't post to forums very often and use them sparingly.

I've owned my Pink Triangle turntable since the 1980s, and having had several upgrades over the years, it is essentially now Anniversary spec (SME V/Koetsu Urushi). I don't change components very much; I'm pretty much on my third system in almost 40 years and it mostly dates back to the 80s/90s. Everything I have has been refurbished in the past five years. I like to think that I'm pretty immune to the snake oil and exhortations to make eye-wateringly expensive "upgrades". I haven't got unlimited funds and I (mostly) like what I hear.

I've had cause to deal with Arthur this year to fix a broken bearing and have been fortunate enough to get some early experience of the Houdini on my "other" turntable, a PT Tarantella (Origin Live Silver/Ortofon Kontrapunkt B). When Arthur suggested that, while my main TT was out of action, he fit the Houdini to the Tarantella, I resisted. But, I've always thought that the back-up TT was a bit lacking all-around compared to the PT Too/Anniversary/SME V/Urushi combo, and this was still the case after a few weeks settling in to listen with the Tarantella again, so I relented.

Having had Houdini fitted to the Tarantella, the sound I'm getting has been transformed. I feel like I'm getting a lot more depth, space and resolution. What was a bit of a mellow-sounding cartridge seems to have more bite/attack and firmness in the bass, without any harshness. I'm not sure I want to take my "main" turntable back out of the box!

Compared to the kinds of outlay that many hifi enthusiasts are prepared to make over and over again to "improve" the sound coming from their systems, I find it hard to believe that commentators on various hifi forums are attacking something they've not even heard on the basis of its price! How many significant upgrades to a hifi system's sound can be had for a few hundred quid? Surely one must listen and decide on that basis, not just put a value based on what you can see in the pictures? Talk about a red herring! The fact that it looks simple doesn't mean that it is simple. The value is in what it sounds like.

I would strongly suggest that this is an upgrade worth investigating. It may not be for everyone, but at the price, even owners of a budget vinyl-based system can consider it (and for them, despite the price being significant compared to their overall system cost, it will be the most worthwhile, based on my understanding of how Houdini works). With the offer of a refund if not satisfied, what is there to lose?

I've also heard been fortunate to listen to another of his new developments, the Akutrak, which, although of a completely different order price-wise, pushes the sonic results that can be achieved by lower-cost MM cartridges into besting the sound of very high-end MC cartridges. There's more to it than that, but I'm thinking that it could be a one-off outlay that saves enthusiasts a lot of money on cartridges over the years!

j.

PT Too (Anniversary Spec)/SME V/Koetsu Urushi (PT Tarantella/Origin Live Silver/Ortofon Kontrapunkt B)
Audio Research SP9 mk3
Micromega Solo
Albarry M1008 Monoblocks
Pro-Ac EBT
(VdH/Kimber/Cardas cables, Woodblock/Red Rollers RF inhibitors)

[matodono1]

I don't post to forums very often and use them sparingly.

I've owned my Pink Triangle turntable since the 1980s, and having had several upgrades over the years, it is essentially now Anniversary spec (SME V/Koetsu Urushi). I don't change components very much; I'm pretty much on my third system in almost 40 years and it mostly dates back to the 80s/90s. Everything I have has been refurbished in the past five years. I like to think that I'm pretty immune to the snake oil and exhortations to make eye-wateringly expensive "upgrades". I haven't got unlimited funds and I (mostly) like what I hear.

I've had cause to deal with Arthur this year to fix a broken bearing and have been fortunate enough to get some early experience of the Houdini on my "other" turntable, a PT Tarantella (Origin Live Silver/Ortofon Kontrapunkt B). When Arthur suggested that, while my main TT was out of action, he fit the Houdini to the Tarantella, I resisted. But, I've always thought that the back-up TT was a bit lacking all-around compared to the PT Too/Anniversary/SME V/Urushi combo, and this was still the case after a few weeks settling in to listen with the Tarantella again, so I relented.

Having had Houdini fitted to the Tarantella, the sound I'm getting has been transformed. I feel like I'm getting a lot more depth, space and resolution. What was a bit of a mellow-sounding cartridge seems to have more bite/attack and firmness in the bass, without any harshness. I'm not sure I want to take my "main" turntable back out of the box!

Compared to the kinds of outlay that many hifi enthusiasts are prepared to make over and over again to "improve" the sound coming from their systems, I find it hard to believe that commentators on various hifi forums are attacking something they've not even heard on the basis of its price! How many significant upgrades to a hifi system's sound can be had for a few hundred quid? Surely one must listen and decide on that basis, not just put a value based on what you can see in the pictures? Talk about a red herring! The fact that it looks simple doesn't mean that it is simple. The value is in what it sounds like.

I would strongly suggest that this is an upgrade worth investigating. It may not be for everyone, but at the price, even owners of a budget vinyl-based system can consider it (and for them, despite the price being significant compared to their overall system cost, it will be the most worthwhile, based on my understanding of how Houdini works). With the offer of a refund if not satisfied, what is there to lose?

I've also heard been fortunate to listen to another of his new developments, the Akutrak, which, although of a completely different order price-wise, pushes the sonic results that can be achieved by lower-cost MM cartridges into besting the sound of very high-end MC cartridges. There's more to it than that, but I'm thinking that it could be a one-off outlay that saves enthusiasts a lot of money on cartridges over the years!

j.

PT Too (Anniversary Spec)/SME V/Koetsu Urushi (PT Tarantella/Origin Live Silver/Ortofon Kontrapunkt B)
Audio Research SP9 mk3
Micromega Solo
Albarry M1008 Monoblocks
Pro-Ac EBT
(VdH/Kimber/Cardas cables, Woodblock/Red Rollers RF inhibitors)

Thanks for that Neill.

So far 100% satisfaction. Not one detractor anywhere.

Who is next? info@thefunkfirm.co.uk.

Thanks, Matt.

[MötörBöögie]

Very interesting.....

[matodono1]

Jame's adventure with his Rega P3 ann Houdini.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7QB212Sk764

Thankyou very much James with your help in creating this video.



https://youtu.be/7QB212Sk764

[matodono1]

The latest fitting video.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sgtyqs_R4gQ

https://youtu.be/Sgtyqs_R4gQ

Regards, Matt.

[matodono1]

When you can get a German to be this effusive you must be onto something.

Indie Röhre wrote...
At first I had no association with Houdini. Turning the pages helped me. The first search hit reveals something about a magician and escape artist who was so ingenious that he got the myth of an invincible superman. “To houdinize” was found in American vocabulary after his death. This is supposed to show how someone magically just escapes any sticky situation. Did Funk Firm boss Arthur Khoubesserian want to link the name to the historical wizard? Will the Houdini enchant me, will magical material be used, does it play with Houdini like unleashed? First of all, a lot of questions.
What is a Funk Firm Houdini anyway. The Houdini, which is reminiscent of a ray in terms of shape, is simply a decoupler for pickup systems and is mounted between the headshell and the system. There was something similar from the Cartridgeman, but the Houdini is much more complex. A small bag is delivered with the Houdini, a template for shortening the screws, a particularly thin screwdriver (with which you can tighten the screws through the Houdini from above) and a set of nylon screws.
DSCF9809.jpg
When you have the Houdini in front of you, it becomes clearer how it works. The Houdini consists of a mount with a movable platform on the underside. How exactly it is stored cannot be seen from the outside. The pickup is attached to this easily movable platform. With two more screws you mount this construct on the headshell. So that the mounting screws that come from above do not touch the lower screws on the cartridge, they have to be shortened. A template is included to help cut to the correct length. It is placed on the headshell. First push the screws through from below, place the template on top. Cut off any excess with the nail clipper or cutter knife. Finished.
In this way, the screws do not push the lower ones through from above and thus do not affect the suspension. So the pickup is located on the platform that allows slight movements - very minimal residual mobility. You can tell when you press your thumb on this platform that very little movement is possible. So you don't have to worry that the pickup will swing or something like that.
DSCF9811 (1) .jpg
Incidentally, the enclosed manual is made extremely well with very ingenious drawings.
It is crucial that the pickup itself is not attached to the headshell with screws, but detached from it on the decoupling platform. The rest will probably remain a Khoubesserian secret. According to him, he started doing it ages ago. Now that he's already a little over 70, he wanted to fulfill this dream and revolutionize analog playback. He claims that he can use it to raise mediocre tonearms to a very high level; differences to expensive arms without Houdini would no longer be audible. A lofty goal. But now he has already caused a stir in the analog scene with the achromat and the vectoring drive.
He is silent about the materials used. In the pictures you can see a slightly roughened material. What is under the platform cannot be seen. The screw in the middle secures the platform from improper use, for example by trying to somehow dismantle the pickup while the screws are still too tight. So the Funk Firm Chef has thought of that too.
I thought I would try out whether Funk Firm is right with its ambitious goals.
So I mounted a Houdini on the Rega RB900. There is an Aidas MC with a wooden body, the whole thing runs with an Acoustic Signature Final Tool mass drive. The Houdini is 6mm thick, so the VTA needs to be adjusted. Azimuth fitted well after the screws were tightened. It looks great - see picture. It took me 30 minutes to assemble. But I also worked very calmly and prudently. The openly constructed pickup worth 3K needs to be handled with care. Then I cut off a screw for the headshell too short. I would wish there were spare screws with me (luckily I had spare screws myself, as I have two Houdinis).
Assembled:
DSCF9786 (2) .jpg
Then it could go to the listening appointment:
Trio, the current best of double LP in colored vinyl is allowed to go first.
0731454242929.jpg
The track "DA DA DA I don't love you, you don't love me" is determined by the bass drum. A slack booom, booom, now becomes Pamm, Pamm! Holy Maria! This is immediately noticeable, the punch is now extreme. Fine details penetrate the ears. The stage moves closer together. This means that everything is a little closer. I notice this in the small, quiet intermediate part, where the lines of text ... I don't love you, you don't love me ... are apparently whispered directly into the microphone. I hardly heard that before. Now it sounds almost eerily close. I rub my hands in excitement and play the song all over again. In the second run, however, thoughts arise as to why it ended like this with drummer Peter Behrens. It was a cool sock. He died impoverished.
The LP On the boards button is on.
R-1160943-1278356748.jpg
The eponymous track on page 2 sounds fantastic. On the left, Rory's guitar solo is very intense, on the right an impressively finely fanned out drum kit, but not too far out. It is now "pushed together" more realistically. How the Houdini can influence my sound stage is a mystery to me. All notes come out smoothly, including the sax. No squeaking music. The Houdini detoxifies the reproduction. You follow the notes and dream Feeling so close to Rory again, unfortunately I never saw him live.
Now the Kings of Leon are allowed to ride a carousel and hiss? Yes, yes and yes again. No kitties. Youth and Young Manhood to 2 times 180 grams.
0889853473113.jpg
The plate had a hook. Now the guitars are badly distorted anyway and the singer is dumpling his way through the songs. Woe to something that doesn't fit in the setup. Then it becomes exhausting. That was also so- pay attention to the past tense. It also sounded a bit musty. So the voice seemed slightly overcast.
Holy Lord Choral Society. Now something is going on. All is well. The track "Wasted Time", oh that's wonderful. How is the song drifting, what's that cool. It sounds fresh, cleanly read from the groove, as if it were from CD, there is no crackling noise, the unfortunately too short drum and bass solo in the middle of the song is superb. Then that snotty voice. I could jump through the living room. Why don't i do it The parquet is not polished. The stage is set accordingly.
And those are the inner grooves of the plate, gentlemen. The Aidas MC drives safely like the Hamburg subway on its rails. There are delicious views:
DSCF9806 (1) .jpg
The voices are absolutely cast in their given form. At least I don't have any more problems with S-tones. Too often it is pushed onto the Lp's and the mix. You make it too easy for yourself. Realization for me now - today.
And here again. The instruments on an unrealistic stage that are too far out have disappeared. No, it's not too narrow now. Everything rather suitable. No drummer's octopus arms. The excellent PRAT is noticeable in fast songs. With air drums I now get into almost every rock song. I'm still keeping up with Kings of Leon. Let's see if that's the case with the next LP. This is the drum thunderstorm program.
Time for rock'n'roll. Yes, she is again. The last record. Some get choking, the neighbors are made to report you to the uniformed men. The spiders fall from the ceiling. You drive out every woman on a first date. You can't make yourself less popular. Slipknot will try to rip my tonearm away. The band has been linked to youth deaths. But that could never be proven. The appearance of this band will make any grandmother swoon. I carefully place the plate Antennas to hell.
713UmP8feNL._SL1425_.jpg
What's happening now? Title "Eyeless" plays. The dog turns on its back and the legs point upwards. Does he give up or do I have a new Slipknot fan? To be on the safe side, I'll take him out. Because now it is turned louder. Shaking my head, I "listen" (does the term really fit?) To the sounds. Unbelievable these drums. Shit. The tablecloth is about to fly off the dining table. That's not normal. I laugh my head off. Corey Taylor has a quirk. But his vocals are played more cleanly than ever. Whoa, shouts one off, but in the chorus he sings haunting melodies again. Fat. And those heavy guitars. The paint rolls off the loudspeaker. If you have the courage, please listen. Hot. Everything is sorted great. Each instrument is presented for itself. No, metal doesn't have to be a pulp. Here, too, the Houdini helps to analyze the music, to present it in all its facets. Differentiate instead of smudging sound.
And what Arthur Khoubesserian promises, that records that once sounded exhausting, can now be played, he keeps. I haven't been able to hear the Slipknot in one yet. Now it becomes an experience. I am still shaking my head. It doesn't exist, what did that guy invent? The Houdini is a magician. Or does Arthur have magic hands? The name couldn't be more appropriate. If you're ever reading this, Arthur: Thanks Arthur for this gift to the Analog fans. You are now King Arthur to me.

As for King Arthur? We always knew!

https://scontent.flhr4-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/120156246_10222141854230606_8895254298454005295_o. jpg?_nc_cat=109&_nc_sid=0debeb&_nc_ohc=wihozqTzurwAX8QqdGh&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr4-2.fna&oh=5ea67babf2d4550d8b88aac6630fd5d8&oe=5F91FC74

[indie roehre]

yes, and the Houdini ist still mounted and it also brings out many details. So it is able to present also emotional music not only metal or hard rock. At the moment I spend some time with Chris Stapleton and "Whisky and You" from the album "Traveller". Very impressive ans musical and superb tracking of my Aidas MC. The control of sibilants is remarkable.

[CageyH]

My Houdini is finally being shipped.
I am looking at capturing a few “needle drops” of some tracks with and without the Houdini, so people can get to hear what it does - just for fun.
I am looking for a few interesting tracks to use.

The thing is, I am not going to tell people which is which straight away....

[matodono1]

yes, and the Houdini ist still mounted and it also brings out many details. So it is able to present also emotional music not only metal or hard rock. At the moment I spend some time with Chris Stapleton and "Whisky and You" from the album "Traveller". Very impressive ans musical and superb tracking of my Aidas MC. The control of sibilants is remarkable.

Hello Knut,

Sincerely I thank you for an incredible write up. We really appreciate your input.

Matt.

[matodono1]

Funk Houdini fitting instructions. There is also a PDF version which will be available as a download from the new site when it is launched later this week.

Thanks Matt.

https://scontent.flhr4-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/120351199_10222173813469567_2463985894234761323_o. jpg?_nc_cat=111&_nc_sid=825194&_nc_ohc=5vcNensn4AIAX-utf5G&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr4-2.fna&oh=e6f778c7aacea72b619bc55fde24e0d8&oe=5F98B29E

[WullieD20]

Nice to see some instructions for the Houdini, I didn't receive any with mine!
However, pretty self explanatory if one is familiar with cartridges, headshells and all the associated setting up.......
Still experimenting with mine, but getting the feeling that it can put a £600 cartridge into a similar league to a £6000 cartridge (my own carts)...... MMmmmmm?

[matodono1]

Nice to see some instructions for the Houdini, I didn't receive any with mine!
However, pretty self explanatory if one is familiar with cartridges, headshells and all the associated setting up.......
Still experimenting with mine, but getting the feeling that it can put a £600 cartridge into a similar league to a £6000 cartridge (my own carts)...... MMmmmmm?

Five weeks ago when I claimed that a Houdini'd 1042 was making better music than a non Houdini'd Benz LPS on a better arm people were almost ready to have me committed to an asylum.

Your post just made me smile.

Thank you. M

[CageyH]

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50401157308_0d3826115d_z_d.jpg

Houdini has escaped the parcel service...

Really easy to fit, but I am glad I had spare screws available, as I used the wrong ones to connect the cartridge. :doh:
Who reads instructions these days?

[carruthersesq]

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50401157308_0d3826115d_z_d.jpg

Houdini has escaped the parcel service...

Really easy to fit, but I am glad I had spare screws available, as I used the wrong ones to connect the cartridge. :doh:
Who reads instructions these days?

And your initial thoughts Kevin?

[CageyH]

Initial thoughts are that it certainly makes a difference. The question is if you like that difference.
The difference on a recorded file is obvious.

I have done two short needle drops. One with a Houdini, and one without.

File 1 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1oemlgJMcxTaF6r0X_8nCcjQGmm0_vX9k/view?usp=sharing

File 2 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1et64cI3CE21dJsWfA9lKohaWNH3_uZFS/view?usp=sharing

Which do you prefer?

I will be posting my thoughts a bit later This week after I have had time to listen to what it does, and then remove it, and have another listen.
The needle drops are a quick way to do an A/B as they capture the essence of the difference.

[carruthersesq]

Thanks Kevin.

I can hear the difference on my iPad! I’ll not suggest publicly which I think has the Houdini mounted, I have sent you a pm with that answer.

I have a Houdini on order so will respond when I receive and mount it.

[anthonyTD]

Welcome back to AOS Matt,
Only just catching up with this thread, Anyway, interesting product, from my own experiments and experiences i realised a long time ago that decoupling items from their suroundings rather than trying to fasten everything down to a solid mass was a better way to go in many ways, good luck with the product, and your charity work :)

[Marco]

Initial thoughts are that it certainly makes a difference. The question is if you like that difference.
The difference on a recorded file is obvious.

I have done two short needle drops. One with a Houdini, and one without.

File 1 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1oemlgJMcxTaF6r0X_8nCcjQGmm0_vX9k/view?usp=sharing

File 2 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1et64cI3CE21dJsWfA9lKohaWNH3_uZFS/view?usp=sharing

Which do you prefer?

I will be posting my thoughts a bit later This week after I have had time to listen to what it does, and then remove it, and have another listen.
The needle drops are a quick way to do an A/B as they capture the essence of the difference.

It's always hard when listening to these things through a computer, but I'd be very surprised if file 1 wasn't with the Houdini, and if I'm right I'll explain why!

Oh, and you need to clean your records better - I can still hear some clicks and pops!:ner:;)

Marco.

[willbewill]

Initial thoughts are that it certainly makes a difference. The question is if you like that difference.
The difference on a recorded file is obvious.

I have done two short needle drops. One with a Houdini, and one without.

File 1 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1oemlgJMcxTaF6r0X_8nCcjQGmm0_vX9k/view?usp=sharing

File 2 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1et64cI3CE21dJsWfA9lKohaWNH3_uZFS/view?usp=sharing

Which do you prefer?

I will be posting my thoughts a bit later This week after I have had time to listen to what it does, and then remove it, and have another listen.
The needle drops are a quick way to do an A/B as they capture the essence of the difference.

Given my experiences with the Houdini I'd also go with file 1.

[CageyH]

It's always hard when listening to these things through a computer, but I'd be very surprised if file 1 wasn't with the Houdini, and if I'm right I'll explain why!

Oh, and you need to clean your records better - I can still hear some clicks and pops!:ner:;)

Marco.

Clicks and pops left in there so people know it is a vinyl record. I did not brush it down before playing, and it has been a while since it has been on the RCM.

File 1 is indeed the Houdini.

[Macca]

Seems to do what it says on the tin then, except I notice a couple of people preferred file 2... must be half deaf ;)

[AJSki2fly]

Initial thoughts are that it certainly makes a difference. The question is if you like that difference.
The difference on a recorded file is obvious.

I have done two short needle drops. One with a Houdini, and one without.

File 1 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1oemlgJMcxTaF6r0X_8nCcjQGmm0_vX9k/view?usp=sharing

File 2 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1et64cI3CE21dJsWfA9lKohaWNH3_uZFS/view?usp=sharing

Which do you prefer?

I will be posting my thoughts a bit later This week after I have had time to listen to what it does, and then remove it, and have another listen.
The needle drops are a quick way to do an A/B as they capture the essence of the difference.

Crikey that was quite a difference, I think I will be investing in a Houdini as soon as I have the cash

[matodono1]

Initial thoughts are that it certainly makes a difference. The question is if you like that difference.
The difference on a recorded file is obvious.

I have done two short needle drops. One with a Houdini, and one without.

File 1 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1oemlgJMcxTaF6r0X_8nCcjQGmm0_vX9k/view?usp=sharing

File 2 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1et64cI3CE21dJsWfA9lKohaWNH3_uZFS/view?usp=sharing

Which do you prefer?

I will be posting my thoughts a bit later This week after I have had time to listen to what it does, and then remove it, and have another listen.
The needle drops are a quick way to do an A/B as they capture the essence of the difference.

I prefer track two although I am surprised that the bass seems a little less full. But the extra resolution and the leading edge and roll on the drum would tell me that this is the Houdini track.

Now please PM me to tell me if I am correct.

Regards, Matt.

[willbewill]

I prefer track two although I am surprised that the bass seems a little less full. But the extra resolution and the leading edge and roll on the drum would tell me that this is the Houdini track.

Now please PM me to tell me if I am correct.

Regards, Matt.


Clicks and pops left in there so people know it is a vinyl record. I did not brush it down before playing, and it has been a while since it has been on the RCM.

File 1 is indeed the Houdini.

...................................

[WullieD20]

Posted by matodono1 :
I prefer track two although I am surprised that the bass seems a little less full. But the extra resolution and the leading edge and roll on the drum would tell me that this is the Houdini track.
Now please PM me to tell me if I am correct.
Matt.
Posted by CageyH View Post:
Clicks and pops left in there so people know it is a vinyl record. I did not brush it down before playing, and it has been a while since it has been on the RCM.
File 1 is indeed the Houdini.


...................................

Yeah, sort of beggars belief, eh?. . . . :lol::lol:

[CageyH]

It's a digital recording, probably listened to on a phone using bluetooth or crap headphones.

What could possibly go wrong?

[WullieD20]

It's a digital recording, probably listened to on a phone using bluetooth or crap headphones.
What could possibly go wrong?

Very true.....(just thought it a wee bit ironic...:D).

I'm pretty impressed with mine so far, trying different carts and TTs.

[CageyH]

It is quite funny, but they are not the best clips to judge what it can or cannot do.

[matodono1]

...................................

Kevin can you please clarify the cofusion on this post. In contrast with posts on other forums of other tracks????

File 2 is the Houdini as you confirmed with myself earlier??

[matodono1]

Posted by matodono1 :
I prefer track two although I am surprised that the bass seems a little less full. But the extra resolution and the leading edge and roll on the drum would tell me that this is the Houdini track.
Now please PM me to tell me if I am correct.
Matt.
Posted by CageyH View Post:
Clicks and pops left in there so people know it is a vinyl record. I did not brush it down before playing, and it has been a while since it has been on the RCM.
File 1 is indeed the Houdini.



Yeah, sort of beggars belief, eh?. . . . :lol::lol:

There is some confusion between this and tracks on other forums. I have asked Kevin to clarify.

[matodono1]

Very true.....(just thought it a wee bit ironic...:D).

I'm pretty impressed with mine so far, trying different carts and TTs.

Again to be clarified.

[matodono1]

Okay confusion clarified. I am listening on a Macbook air through its speakers and made a snap judgement based on that.

I preferred track 2 although the fuller bass was on track 1 which is one thing that we have measured and that Houdini does and the confusion with that aspect is stated.

If this is what sways your decision then so be it.

I have been honest all the way through and I know what i'm listening to at home.

Do your worst...

Matt.

[CageyH]

If you are listening to the clips through a PC, you have a 50:50 chance of getting it correct. It is down to guess work..
You don’t get the full benefit unless you do this properly. ;)

You should know that Matt.

[kininigin]

Well my curiosity got the better of me and i ordered one last week. Still waiting for it to turn up but sounds like i'm in for a treat when it does.

Exciting times!

[WullieD20]

Again to be clarified.

Which bit?

Originally Posted by WullieD20:
"Very true.....(just thought it a wee bit ironic...)".

Cause the OP had already published the answer before you posted your comment!

"I'm pretty impressed with mine so far, trying different carts and TTs".

I'll be back.......(as Arnold would say!). :D:D

[CageyH]

One of the things I had reservations about was the mounting of cartridges, and the two different types of Houdini.
At £300 a pop, I only want one to do both types of cartridge. Until now, I was not sure it was possible....

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50404752863_0f4ef403f8_z_d.jpg

You need to be careful you don't damage the cantilever etc. but it is possible to fit a bolt through cartridge to a Houdini for a threaded cartridge.
It's fiddly, but perfectly possible. It took me about 10 minutes to do.

This was an important factor in me keeping the Houdini.
I have some vinyl playing now, and it sounds pretty damn good.

[kininigin]

Initial thoughts are that it certainly makes a difference. The question is if you like that difference.
The difference on a recorded file is obvious.

I have done two short needle drops. One with a Houdini, and one without.

File 1 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1oemlgJMcxTaF6r0X_8nCcjQGmm0_vX9k/view?usp=sharing

File 2 https://drive.google.com/file/d/1et64cI3CE21dJsWfA9lKohaWNH3_uZFS/view?usp=sharing

Which do you prefer?

I will be posting my thoughts a bit later This week after I have had time to listen to what it does, and then remove it, and have another listen.
The needle drops are a quick way to do an A/B as they capture the essence of the difference.

The second clip sounds like it's out of phase on my system,whilst the first is far more focused! Interesting.

[willbewill]

One of the things I had reservations about was the mounting of cartridges, and the two different types of Houdini.
At £300 a pop, I only want one to do both types of cartridge. Until now, I was not sure it was possible....

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50404752863_0f4ef403f8_z_d.jpg

You need to be careful you don't damage the cantilever etc. but it is possible to fit a bolt through cartridge to a Houdini for a threaded cartridge.
It's fiddly, but perfectly possible. It took me about 10 minutes to do.

This was an important factor in me keeping the Houdini.
I have some vinyl playing now, and it sounds pretty damn good.

I was sent a screw to instead od a screw through in error but although it's fiddly I'm very happy with it using an AT33ptg/II.

[CageyH]

I have deleted the test files I posted on here, as they started to appear on other forums. :rolleyes:

[willbewill]

One of the things I had reservations about was the mounting of cartridges, and the two different types of Houdini.
At £300 a pop, I only want one to do both types of cartridge. Until now, I was not sure it was possible....

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50404752863_0f4ef403f8_z_d.jpg

You need to be careful you don't damage the cantilever etc. but it is possible to fit a bolt through cartridge to a Houdini for a threaded cartridge.
It's fiddly, but perfectly possible. It took me about 10 minutes to do.

This was an important factor in me keeping the Houdini.
I have some vinyl playing now, and it sounds pretty damn good.

I was sent a screw to instead od a screw through in error but although it's fiddly I'm very happy with it using an AT33ptg/II.

[willbewill]

And here's mine.

https://i.postimg.cc/NMqpRsDV/RLGQhdQh.jpg

https://i.postimg.cc/MHs73q0z/IWVjA4wh.jpg

[CageyH]

Have you tried removing it, and listening to your system without it?

[willbewill]

Have you tried removing it, and listening to your system without it?

No, but I did listen before I put it in...

[CageyH]

Posted by matodono1 :
I prefer track two although I am surprised that the bass seems a little less full. But the extra resolution and the leading edge and roll on the drum would tell me that this is the Houdini track.
Now please PM me to tell me if I am correct.
Matt.
Posted by CageyH View Post:
Clicks and pops left in there so people know it is a vinyl record. I did not brush it down before playing, and it has been a while since it has been on the RCM.
File 1 is indeed the Houdini.



Yeah, sort of beggars belief, eh?. . . . :lol::lol:

I have been thinking about this, as something was not sitting right with me.
Now I may be talking absolute rubbish, but it seems that Houdini uses some kind of spring suspension system. (I would love to see how they are assembled, as it cannot be easy?)

In engineering, a spring is usually tuned to suit a specific situation. My belief (and I may be totally wrong) is that a 25g cartridge is outside of the optimised range of Houdini. Yesterday, I swapped my fat boy DL103GL for my AT33PTG/II and the results were very different.
I will do the Dire Straits clip again, and let you see (hear) for yourselves. Give me an hour, and the clips will be up for a limited time.

[willbewill]

I have been thinking about this, as something was not sitting right with me.
Now I may be talking absolute rubbish, but it seems that Houdini uses some kind of spring suspension system. (I would love to see how they are assembled, as it cannot be easy?)

In engineering, a spring is usually tuned to suit a specific situation. My belief (and I may be totally wrong) is that a 25g cartridge is outside of the optimised range of Houdini. Yesterday, I swapped my fat boy DL103GL for my AT33PTG/II and the results were very different.
I will do the Dire Straits clip again, and let you see (hear) for yourselves. Give me an hour, and the clips will be up for a limited time.

That's an interesting thought, I wonder if it holds true for a very light cartridge? Might explain the results I had with K9.

[WullieD20]

It is certainly 'interesting', but what cartridge could you be referring to that weighs 25grams? That's pretty heavy for most of todays carts.


I tried the Houdini with a Hana SL in a 12" Jelco and couldn't even apply VTF without putting ballast on the headshell. However, the results were very convincing on both of my TTs.

[Marco]

It is certainly 'interesting', but what cartridge could you be referring to that weighs 25grams? That's pretty heavy for most of todays carts.


Indeed, the only cartridge I know which weighs as much as that is an Ortofon SPU, simply because it's enclosed within a headshell, which is part of the weight. No DL-103 weighs that much.

Not really sure where you're coming from here, Kevin?:scratch:

Marco.

[CageyH]

My DL103 in the Techne-Audio brass bodied cartridge. It is a frankencart, as it has a boron canti with Shibata stylus. A fat boy version.

I have been discussing this with AK by mail, and there is a chance that with a cartridge that heavy, I could go into system resonance.
This is basically why some of the needle drops the version without Houdini sounded better. AK does not have a 103, let alone a heavy one, so was up unable to confirm, but as a result of my needle drops, my Houdini will shortly be on it’s way back for a check up.

It must be a difficult job trying to repeatedly manufacture these. They are tiny, and must be quite fiddly to put together.

[Marco]

My DL103 in the Techne-Audio brass bodied cartridge. It is a frankencart, as it has a boron canti with Shibata stylus. A fat boy version.


Ah ok, so you've fitted a heavy aftermarket bodyshell to yours, that's cool.


I have been discussing this with AK by mail, and there is a chance that with a cartridge that heavy, I could go into system resonance.
This is basically why some of the needle drops the version without Houdini sounded better.


Lol, well not to me it didn't!!

I've been busy elsewhere, so haven't been contributing recently to this thread, but I meant to comment further after I'd listened to both needledrops and correctly identified the one where the Houdini had been fitted.

To my ears, and I didn't have to labour over it either, even on a pair of laptop speakers (and also afterwards with headphones fitted), the difference was marked and VERY obvious, as the leading edges of the drums, thus their impact, intensity and ultimately REALISM, was far more believable, including the clarity and definition of every other musical aspect of the track.

As soon as the second version started, I could instantly hear the sonic degradation, resulting in an overall softer/less incisive sound, thus reducing the transient attack/leading edge definition of the drums, and in comparison the whole track just sounded 'fuzzier' and a little confused, with constrained dynamics and a lack of clarity.

In summary, for me, it was no-brainer inferior, and in *precisely* the areas where I'd have expected, and indeed know from experience, that the Houdini excels. Usually, the constant benefit it offers is in the overall 'cleaning up' of recordings, thus making music sound more real, and that's simply due to reducing distortion in the playback process!

So how Matt (or anyone else) preferred the second rip, I don't know - must be getting deaf in his old age!:D;)

No seriously, the difference was totally obvious to me in favour of the Houdini. What you have to be careful of, and indeed guard against in these sorts of tests, is in choosing what YOU think 'sounds nicer' or prefer, rather than what is likely MORE TRUTHFUL, and therefore faithful to the recording. Ultimately, we call that 'HI-FI'...

I don't listen to vinyl because it I want it to 'sound nice'; I want it to sound REAL, and therefore faithfully reproduce what's contained in the grooves, warts and all. I seek to achieve maximum resolution and retrieval of information, with nothing 'smoothed over' or rounded off, along with minimal coloration - and for me *that* is precisely what the Houdini does when fitted to the headshell of any pick-up arm - usually very effectively!:)

That said, I certainly cannot rule out any potential mismatch with particular cartridges or possible inconsistencies in the manufacturing process of the Houdini, both of which will inevitably happen, simply due to the nature of the beast, so in that respect it'll be interesting if the 'sorted' version you're sent does anything different, or indeed if when the one you've returned is examined, it is found to be defective.

So do keep us posted!:cool:

Marco.

[CageyH]

I am not getting a revised version. I don't think one exists.
Mine is going back for a check up. After all, it could have been damaged in the post for all I know.

[Marco]

Sure, that's what I meant by "revised", as in if yours was found to be faulty in some way, then it'll be interesting to see if the subsequent 'fixed' one makes a difference:)

What did you think of the rest of what I wrote? Did you prefer the second needledrop, and if so why?

Regardless of any possible defectiveness in the Houdini you were sent, even with a 'perfect' one, it might still not work as well in your set-up, as it does in others, and as indeed also happened in Malcolm's, with his K9, simply as a result of a whole host of possible variables, including the weight factor you've mentioned with your re-bodied 103.

The fact is, and let's all not lose sight of this, as good as the Houdini is, it simply cannot be a universal panacea for the 'ills' present in every headshell or tonearm in the world. Sometimes it will work successfully, sometimes it won't, and for a variety of legitimate reasons.

However, I believe that the Houdini fundamentally addresses a genuine [and widespread] problem, and therefore when no underlying issues exist, to hinder its effectiveness, then I believe it will be successful more times than not - and by a large margin - which is certainly being reflected in the feedback received so far from those who've used it.

Therefore, in the quest for genuinely accurate vinyl replay, the Houdini may not win every battle, but it in the end, it'll win the war!;)

Marco.

[CageyH]

Marco,

Which needle drop are you refeering to?
Dire Straits or Tracey Chapman?
I did quite a few over the weekend as a (potentily flawed) quick way of doing an A/B comparison.

I totally agree with your statement above. As such, it is important for people to try it for themselves.

[Marco]

Whichever was originally rip 1 on your needledrops. Don't know who the artist was, but drums featured significantly in the excerpt, as how they were reproduced on both rips stuck most in my mind - and the difference, to my ears, was rather marked!:)

Marco.

[CageyH]

Ah, Dire Straits, News from Communique.
That was clear, I agree. No question.

[CageyH]

One thing I have noticed is that with Houdini, bass becomes better defined. There is no question about if it works or not.

[carruthersesq]

My Houdini arrived this morning. Not sure yet when I’ll get the dedicated time I need to mount it but will report back when I have.

[kininigin]

Has anyone spoken to Matt or Arthur recently? I paid for a Houdini nearly 2 weeks ago and haven't recieved one yet. Not been able to get a reply from email. Appreciate they are probably busy but an update would be appreciated if things are being held up.

Waiting eagerly :)

[CageyH]

Yes, spoken to them both. Both are really busy.
Arthur is the one sending them out.

[kininigin]

Yes, spoken to them both. Both are really busy.
Arthur is the one sending them out.

Figured they would be busy. Guess i'll have to be patient.

[carruthersesq]

I only paid for mine last Friday and it arrived on Monday. Mine is a screw through, is yours a screw to? Maybe they are still building that stock?

[kininigin]

I only paid for mine last Friday and it arrived on Monday. Mine is a screw through, is yours a screw to? Maybe they are still building that stock?

I paid for mine a week last friday/saturday and was told it would be sent on Monday. I also need a screw through type. I don't mind waiting, just like to know what's going on.

[matodono1]

I paid for mine a week last friday/saturday and was told it would be sent on Monday. I also need a screw through type. I don't mind waiting, just like to know what's going on.

Hi Darren,

Are you still waiting? If so I will chase up on your behalf.

Kind regards, Matt.

[kininigin]

Hi Darren,

Are you still waiting? If so I will chase up on your behalf.

Kind regards, Matt.

Hi Matt,

Yes still waiting and that would be very much appreciated. Thank you :)

[CageyH]

Listening to the same tracks as I did a needle drop on, but using my headphone set up, and I have to say that the difference is startling.
I think my needle drops with the heavy 103 are flawed.

I am using my Humble EPC-205/Neo SAS combination and it sounds stunning.

[Marco]

Well, post some needledrops of what you're describing, and let us be the judge of that!:ner:;)

Marco.

[CageyH]

Nope. :ner:

[CageyH]

The problem with needle drops is that you will hear a digital version of the track.
You will not hear exactly what the Houdini brings to the party.

[Marco]

Well I heard it before LOUD & CLEAR on your last drops!!:ner::ner:

...even if some deaf bassas didn't:D

Marco.

[russiansandamericans]

It seems Arthur is hacked off with these needle drops being publicised and had a rant online about it (Rather vehemently I may add.
There is no option to buy these Houdinis online apart from emailing the man himself so maybe someone could enlighten us when the shop or website is running.

[carruthersesq]

You’ll find them for sale in many online retailers if you search! You could email Funk direct which I did and received my Houdini in a couple of days.

I also don’t think his comments were at all a rant but an explanation as to what he has produced, the history to it, the difficulty in bringing something new to the industry and why there are so may keyboard warriors attacking something they haven’t ever heard/Demo’d!

[willbewill]

Well I'm enjoying mine more and more

[CageyH]

Well I'm enjoying mine more and more

Me too, now that I have fitted a more suitable cartridge.

[CageyH]

It seems Arthur is hacked off with these needle drops being publicised and had a rant online about it (Rather vehemently I may add.
There is no option to buy these Houdinis online apart from emailing the man himself so maybe someone could enlighten us when the shop or website is running.

The needle drops were always going to happen amongst enthusiasts.
It was doing a needle drop that I found a problem with my cartridge being too heavy. Still, those files are deleted as they don’t give a true representation of what Houdini does in it’s normal operating range.

[willbewill]

I'm with Marco, it was easy to tell which was the Houdini enhanced drop.

[Marco]

It seems Arthur is hacked off with these needle drops being publicised and had a rant online about it (Rather vehemently I may add.


Where did this "rant" occur? Link please?:)

Marco.

[russiansandamericans]

Arthur has decided to release a statement regarding recent attempts to demonstrate Houdini through use of digitised samples of analogue recordings in Houdini vs non Houdini setups.
So here goes...

My declared aim since day 1 has been to steadily improve the state of the art in analogue
This came about due to the following:
At school my math master John Shuttleworth was collectively, a renowned pro reviewer, a recording engineer and he owned a record label.
Taking me to recording sessions, he taught me what good recorded sound was (and boy were they good!)
Owning Meridan records, you’d be mistaken (as was I) in thinking he would laud records. Instead he surprised me in the way he disparagingly dismissed this most popular form of music reproduction, referring to them unflatteringly as groove grinders.
Then again, one merely had to hear the difference between his master tape and the record.
“Why did they sound so different and so poor?” That question has underpinned what has turned out to be my life-long obsession to improve the state of the art, and not just for the elites, but for the masses.
A physics degree has served me well for along the way I have been confronted by endless, negative forces continually attempting to thwart my efforts.
40 years on, I’m still here, as are my original ideas. Not one diluted. Why, because I’ve relied on my physics and never sold out. And, that, my friends, brings me neatly round to Houdini, a product that has, so soon, garnered, oh, so many new, (well intentioned?) attacks.
They do say “The path to hell is paved with good intentions”. Really? Let’s see.
I knew Houdini would be in the firing line. Convention be damned, it is my most contentious idea to date and you lot don’t like it. - Any wonder it languished in a drawer for 18 years!
Then again, I’ve been around even longer. It’s my job and I do actually know what I’m doing.
Houdini delivers.
That being the (my) case, how is it then that we claim the differences are night and day, whilst on your side of the fence, you maintain it makes little difference?
How is it we have many users who swear by it?
Mass hypnosis? Trump-esque (Rega-esque, Linn-esque) idolatry or evangelism?
Forums are great for vitriolic attacks. Houdini was no different. Shoot first...Oh, and while you’re at it, don’t bother asking questions.
No one wants to be collaborative; only confrontational. I deal in facts, not personalities. With such a reception, I’ve left you alone. It is only now things have started to veer off-piste, with so-called “facts”, “results” presented, that I have to step in.
The bottom line to the answer is in fact a question:
“Why, when we have CDs, streamers et al, do we bother to listen to records, with all their vagaries, ticks and pops?”
Because for all its failings, analogue has an as yet undefined quality that our brain picks up on. We (our brains) CAN tell differences. The frustrating thing is we still have not got to the bottom of how our brain assimilates these differences, aural resolution, brain refresh rates plus a whole lot of other mumbo jumbo, the technology just isn’t to hand, but we can’t deny that you put a record on and go “I like that”.
Our hobby is just that. We are listening to ANALOGUE.
Enter Houdini. Suddenly everyone, with as much gay abandon as they can muster, positively rushes to digitise it! “Joining the dots” is suddenly taken “as read” as OK. Needle-drops are deemed as the “fair” approach; downloadable A-Bs for everyone to hear and evaluate. And the results contradict honest listeners findings. Is it because the product is poor?
I did caution: “The path to hell”...that being the case, I now turn it around and throw it back.
Seeing they are SO good, using said self-same technology as in these needle-drops, I think you should similarly digitise your entire record collection and throw those bits of 12” plastic in the bin. What possible objection can you have to that?
Unless, of course, you agree that what you’ve done in reality is thrown the proverbial analoguebaby out with the bath water.
Digitising the differences as you have done DOESN’T WORK! How could you think it would?
I know this. We’ve tried it ourselves. I am not so stupid as to miss out on an opportunity to makes sales from what would appear to be a simple home download. We HAVE carried out our own experiments, exhaustively. Hence why to date our marketing does not include this.
Science has rigour attached to it. Not only here but elsewhere, the approach adopted and presented as a fait acomplis, has lacked scientific rigour. Where’s the check and balance?
The employed technology is not up to it, something all too easily verified.
The ultimate check and balance here is in fact a simple, straight A-B, best exemplified by using two identical arms on one deck.
Might I suggest, Funk’s two-arm SDG? A deck with immaculate credentials.
For arms, perhaps a couple of modest, old, RB 250s?
To compensate, only fair we use two VERY High-Resolution cartridges. AT 760SLCs? If you wish but at a whole £40 each, I put forward as ideal, Audio Technica’s AT 95Es.
Jumping up, plugging and unplugging from the amp. I’m lazy: Throw in a simple switch box. And there we have it: 1 deck. Bo!ngs. Achromat. Houdini. RB250s. AT 95Es, 1 Switch.
As for the record(ings)? Something with dynamics to really drive the rig.
Then it is down to listening: A? B? Including my claim of turning up the wick.
Clearly I’m talking from a privileged, elevated position because I’ve done all this. Fortunately, the kit can be heard for yourselves in Catford, in our listening studio.
Bring your own records. The tea is on us.
Too far? Don’t know / trust the system? OK. I’ll go one better. I’ll bring the kit to you.
In your own system. No smoke. No mirrors. The results to be made public.
Here’s the problem: Following member’s highly vitriolic initial post, this offer was already made weeks ago. At the time it was vociferously (and highly offensively, (why?), I have to add) rejected! Any wonder I’m suspicious of motives?
Yes, you WILL hear the differences I have cited, and that others have heard.
Oh. It’s a budget system and so it doesn’t impress you. You’d expect differences under those circumstances, maintaining that top notch kit would detract from Houdini’s efficacy.
Here’s the thing. Funk DOES also make some of the lowest resonance, highest resolving, sweetest sounding arms available.
Does Houdini perform less with Funk’s FX3 fitted with exotic cartridges?
Better cartridges merely provide more texture. AT95s give you that in spades already.
That leaves only the arm question. Bottom line: The differences are equally valid with FX3, gimbal, SME V, Graham, uni-pivot and so on. I’ve tried them all.
The answer then is “No. It doesn’t dilute the results”. You can do the test open or blind.
The results are consistent, instantly, immediately and irrevocably apparent and they stand.
THAT is the way to evaluate, by listening to a deck and NOT via a data-limited, synthesised digitised recording, because now we have the proof: In this setup, you can repeat the recordings when you’ll have double data sets to evaluate. The live A-B and the recordings. Unlike using a Studer, Nagra or Revox of old, when the comparisons would be equivalent to the record, these commonly decodable recordings will be found to fall short. Period.
I do assure you, if ever you wanted proof that analogue is qualitatively different to the current, general state of the digital art, this experiment demonstrates it. I’ll leave you “scientists” and “engineers” to make your excuses, explain the differences in the results.
What started out as another of my offerings has very quickly become politicised for reasons unknown, but I do have my own ideas.
The path to hell is paved with good intentions. Well, I can tell you, by your arrogance, you have caused genuine harm.
Sadly, making friends under these conditions is hard.
In the words of Labi Sifri, the higher you build the wall, the taller I become...
I have to say it’s pretty lonely up here!
I can only repeat, my JOB is to improve the lot of the analogue world for the greater good of us all and, by elimination, conning people is not in that brief.

Keep well and safe.
Kind regards,
Arthur Khoubesserian

[willbewill]

Where did this "rant" occur? Link please?:)

Marco.

It was on Facebook

[russiansandamericans]

This was sent to me from a friend in the Funk Firm Facebook page (Which I'm not a member of)

[Marco]

It was on Facebook

Thanks... That'll be why I know nothing about it, as I don't read or use Facebook (or indeed any other social media site). However, I note that Tony's posted something that I'm just about to read...

As an aside, Matt, could you please teach Arthur how to use paragraphs!:ner:;)

I only say, as without them it makes his erudite outpourings difficult to read.

Marco.

[CageyH]

There are paragraphs in the original version.

[matodono1]

It seems Arthur is hacked off with these needle drops being publicised and had a rant online about it (Rather vehemently I may add.
There is no option to buy these Houdinis online apart from emailing the man himself so maybe someone could enlighten us when the shop or website is running.

The website and online shop is currently being developed. In the interim you can by Houdini simply by emailing Arthur info@thefunkfirm.co.uk and he will make the arrangements with you.

Enjoy!

Matt.

[Macca]

Seems to me manufacturers are happy to use the forums for viral marketing but not so happy about the baggage that comes with it. You don't get to have one without the other.

Do the gains outweigh the losses? I'd say certainly, if you do have a good and genuine product.

People (especially the cynical British) don't tend to like hard sell, so the harder you push and hype your product the more backlash there will be. Finding the balance is not easy, but that's what you need to do.

[russiansandamericans]

It seems to me something is not right at the moment. The Funk firm seems to be concentrating on this Houdini now rather than their turntables and arms, the 5mm Achromat is being phased out because they say they have problems with the supplier producing warped ones. The marketing of the Houdini is being rammed down people's throats and they want to sell you the Boing feet and Achromat as part of the Houdini package.
The boss man doesn't answer emails and when he does, it's a "woe is me" response about him being run of his feet and other excuses to make you feel like he's the one trying to do you the favour. I just wonder if they are in difficulties and this is their last gasp attempt at making a few Bob before throwing in the towel.

[CageyH]

Tony,

I would not be surprised if COVID-19 has a part to play in this. They are just a small company, and I am sure it has not been easy for them, and others like them. If you can’t get something manufactured to the correct quality, why would you continue?

I agree that the marketing may not have been the best, but the Houdini is certainly worth a listen.
Other people are selling it on-line.

[russiansandamericans]

Yep, I'm not sure but it certainly seems rushed. It does look interesting but I'm more than happy with my set up so won't be going down that road, well at least until I see what the majority say about it.

[CageyH]

Well, post some needledrops of what you're describing, and let us be the judge of that!:ner:;)

Marco.

I can't stop playing vinyl.

:gig:

I am glad I had a day off today....

[Marco]

Do you really think that's wise after all Arthur has said?

Plus, there was no "midrange blurriiness" in the example I heard with Houdini fitted.

Marco.

[The Black Adder]

Hi guys.

I have now received the Houdini and the Achromat. I will be doing a full review of both items on AOS as well as on my website:-

www.tannoyista.com (http://www.tannoyista.com)

Can't wait to get groovin'

[CageyH]

Do you really think that's wise after all Arthur has said?

Plus, there was no "midrange blurriiness" in the example I heard with Houdini fitted.

Marco.

I don’t think these files show the Houdini as anything other than good.
You didn’t hear the mid range on a busy track with the heavy cartridge.

However, it’s your website, so if you want them taken down, either edit my post, or let me know and I will do it.

I don’t know why Arthur would be worried about these, they are not a digital comparison of with and without. Just an enthusiast sharing his joy.

[Marco]

I don’t think these files show the Houdini as anything other than awesome.
You didn’t hear the mid range on a busy track.

However, it’s your website, so if you want them taken down, either edit my post, or let me know and I will do it.

I don’t know why Arthur would be worried about these, they are not a digital comparison of with and without. Just an enthusiast sharing his joy.

Sure, but just in the current climate, in terms of the 'controversy' surrounding needledrops, I'm not sure I'd have posted further examples. Just my view. I'll leave the decision up to you as to whether the files remain there or not.

However, I'm glad that the Houdini is hitting the spot for you, as I knew it would, so in that respect I'm pleased:)

Marco.

[CageyH]

I’ll take them down. It’s your site....

For clarity, his beef is with using digital samples to compare Houdini to non-Houdini set ups.


Arthur has decided to release a statement regarding recent attempts to demonstrate Houdini through use of digitised samples of analogue recordings in Houdini vs non Houdini setups.

But they are gone anyway.

[The Vinyl Adventure]

It seems to me something is not right at the moment. The Funk firm seems to be concentrating on this Houdini now rather than their turntables and arms, the 5mm Achromat is being phased out because they say they have problems with the supplier producing warped ones. The marketing of the Houdini is being rammed down people's throats and they want to sell you the Boing feet and Achromat as part of the Houdini package.
The boss man doesn't answer emails and when he does, it's a "woe is me" response about him being run of his feet and other excuses to make you feel like he's the one trying to do you the favour. I just wonder if they are in difficulties and this is their last gasp attempt at making a few Bob before throwing in the towel.

Hello Sir,
If you have run a small business (maybe you have I don't know) then you would perhaps be able to imagine what we are all going through currently.

Arthur is Arthur, I get on fine with him and he has his issues like all small enterprises, I seriously doubt your last few words and quite frankly in the current economic climate its a bit of a s...t thing to write, we as a nation seem to find it all too easy to take a pop at the small guys/girls struggling to make ends meet while the likes of Bezos is making millions out of Covid (Bozo gave them the contract to deliver testing kits) and no one seems to give a toss about that.

Funk will survive, no one is ramming anything down anyones throats, don't like it don't read it, simple.

[russiansandamericans]

What I wrote is mirrored on another forum so I'm not the only one to have thought this. Surely if they launched this product, you would have thought they would at least have their website / shop up and running to take orders or at least enquiries.
I wish the company well with the Houdini even though I've had poor dealings with them in the past regarding quality and repairs.
PS if you don't like my opinion or anyone else's for that matter then you too can choose to ignore them. Simples
Edit. I see why you have responded, you appear to sell or stock the Houdini. Nuff said.

[CageyH]

As posted elsewhere, I have solved my heavy DL103 issue.
I have reset up the cartridge, but 5his time I have increased the bias to be pretty much the same as the VTF, and believe it or not it is working great.

So either the bias was to blame, or my previous set up was at fault. A classic ID 10 T error?

Very happy with this now.

It’s a keeper....

[kininigin]

Well had a reply from Arthur on Friday and there had been an oversight on his part which he apologised for. It's was sent out Friday but unfortunately didn't get here yesterday, so will probably be Monday.

[Marco]

Hope you love it when it arrives, Darren:)

Marco.

[kininigin]

Hope you love it when it arrives, Darren:)

Marco.

Well if it works as stated by Arthur, then I can't see how I wouldn't love it. I'm certainly excited to try it.

What type of headshell did you use to fit the Houdini? As I believe you have to screw from top and bottom of the Houdini. I have Audio technica as my preferred headshells but these use a captive thread. I do have a Jelco headshell but can't remember the weight of it. Think it may be twelve grams? So might have to add a couple of grams for my SC35C to work.

[CageyH]

If you have captive threads, I believe that you can fit the Houdini upside down. Matt did a video on this somewhere.

[CageyH]

Funk also a Houdini ready headshell I believe. It gets back the 6mm of VTA you lose. Useful for SL1200s with standard arms etc.

[kininigin]

If you have captive threads, I believe that you can fit the Houdini upside down. Matt did a video on this somewhere.

Arthur did say about using it upside down but said it's probably wise to use as intended as it may not work as it should.

[CageyH]

You will need a new (or different) head shell then?

[kininigin]

You will need a new (or different) head shell then?

Yes, I have a Jelco headshell but it's not the ideal weight for the cart I use. The Houdini will add a couple of grams but I will need a few more. I can of course add some weight in the form of coins but that would be a temporary measure. I guess I need a headshell with slotted holes that weighs about 15g -16g

[kininigin]

So I've ordered a 3g headshell weight in anticipation of the Houdini arriving...still not here yet! Has anyone else ordered one recently and received it?

How is everyone who does have one finding it? Is it the game changer it is said to be?

[CageyH]

It will be worth chasing Matt and Arthur up if you have not received it yet.

I have already posted my thoughts up on it.

[carruthersesq]

So I've ordered a 3g headshell weight in anticipation of the Houdini arriving...still not here yet! Has anyone else ordered one recently and received it?

How is everyone who does have one finding it? Is it the game changer it is said to be?

Not sure if they would have two addresses for you? I received mine within a couple of days but the screws provided weren’t long enough to get through my cart so Arthur posted some longer ones but these went to my office address which Funk also had on their database. I randomly popped into the office on Tuesday and noticed them there. May be worth asking Arthur which address it was posted to?

[kininigin]

It will be worth chasing Matt and Arthur up if you have not received it yet.

I have already posted my thoughts up on it.

I will give it till Friday, then send another email. I don't really like chasing things up every two minutes


Not sure if they would have two addresses for you? I received mine within a couple of days but the screws provided weren’t long enough to get through my cart so Arthur posted some longer ones but these went to my office address which Funk also had on their database. I randomly popped into the office on Tuesday and noticed them there. May be worth asking Arthur which address it was posted to?

I've only given one address, never bought anything from them before. I don't quite know if it's been posted or not. Apparently it was posted Friday according to Arthur.

[CageyH]

According to The Funk Firm Facebook group, Matt has just sent another batch to Arthur.
The problem is Arthur tends to forget, so needs a polite reminder.

[russiansandamericans]

I recently bought and fitted a Houdini to my Oracle Delphi and I've got to say first impressions were not good. One spare plastic screw, a cheap screwdriver and a basic bike instruction sheet and a low rent paper box.
I was left thinking to myself "where did my £300 go to?) I sat down to listen to it after sorting out the alignment and tracking weight. OK I heard more stuff coming from the speakers especially sounds or voices in the background became a little more pronounced and clearer. The bass sounded similar to before but had a slightly better texture being more plump and fruity. To my ears there has been no change to the high frequencies that I've heard so far. I would say that although the sound is quite lively, it still remains easy to listen too but I was just not getting what other users said they were getting.
The differences were very subtle and not instantly recognisable and in my own opinion not much better than the Origin Live Cartridge Enabler at £25. Do i feel short changed at £300? Yep I sure do so I'll be honouring the money back pledge and putting my enabler back on.
I would be dissapointed if I'd paid £100 for this so £300 is way OTT for a very slight difference in sound quality.
Being brutally honest if you can easily afford it then go ahead buy one, it makes a small difference, but if you are strapped for cash and baulk at the price, don't get it, you will be kicking yourself and end up trying to convince yourself that has changed your sound for the better.
I always thought the claims were too good to be true.

[Patrick Dixon]

One spare plastic screw, a cheap screwdriver and a basic bike instruction sheet and a low rent paper box.

I'd say that is really good: I am fed up with buying stuff in over the top packaging which just ends up in landfill and using up precious resources. Boxes made of 1000 year old trees? Multiple bits of plastic which will just end up in the ocean? Good on you Funk Firm. The trouble is the plonker customers who feel they should get a wooden box with a silk lining to justify the price of their OTT mains lead.

[prestonchipfryer]

I recently bought and fitted a Houdini to my Oracle Delphi and I've got to say first impressions were not good. One spare plastic screw, a cheap screwdriver and a basic bike instruction sheet and a low rent paper box.
I was left thinking to myself "where did my £300 go to?) I sat down to listen to it after sorting out the alignment and tracking weight. OK I heard more stuff coming from the speakers especially sounds or voices in the background became a little more pronounced and clearer. The bass sounded similar to before but had a slightly better texture being more plump and fruity. To my ears there has been no change to the high frequencies that I've heard so far. I would say that although the sound is quite lively, it still remains easy to listen too but I was just not getting what other users said they were getting.
The differences were very subtle and not instantly recognisable and in my own opinion not much better than the Origin Live Cartridge Enabler at £25. Do i feel short changed at £300? Yep I sure do so I'll be honouring the money back pledge and putting my enabler back on.
I would be dissapointed if I'd paid £100 for this so £300 is way OTT for a very slight difference in sound quality.
Being brutally honest if you can easily afford it then go ahead buy one, it makes a small difference, but if you are strapped for cash and baulk at the price, don't get it, you will be kicking yourself and end up trying to convince yourself that has changed your sound for the better.
I always thought the claims were too good to be true.

How is the box a factor to the sound quality? Sounds like you're determined to not like it at any cost. :eyebrows:

[russiansandamericans]

The box is not a factor to sound quality and I never said that. How wrong you are. I was expecting great things but ended up deflated. Presentation is shoddy for something costing £300 adding to the feeling of being short changed.

[Macca]

I'd say that is really good: I am fed up with buying stuff in over the top packaging which just ends up in landfill and using up precious resources. Boxes made of 1000 year old trees? Multiple bits of plastic which will just end up in the ocean? Good on you Funk Firm. The trouble is the plonker customers who feel they should get a wooden box with a silk lining to justify the price of their OTT mains lead.

Yes. Pointlessly elaborate packaging is usually a good indicator that the product actually does nothing.

Don't see any cause for complaint, you can try it and send back for full refund if not impressed. What more can be asked?

[Marco]

First this:


OK I heard more stuff coming from the speakers especially sounds or voices in the background became a little more pronounced and clearer. The bass sounded similar to before but had a slightly better texture being more plump and fruity.


Then this:


The differences were very subtle and not instantly recognisable...

Seems like you didn't have too much trouble 'instantly recognising' any of the above, none of which IMO is "very subtle";)

Anyway, you're entitled to your opinion, which is as valid as anyone else's, but don't ever again throw personal insults around on this forum, the likes of which have been deleted, or you'll be banned without a second thought.

On AoS, we have a zero tolerance policy towards such behaviour, so count yourself lucky you're being given a second chance. Any more such outbursts, however, will be punished accordingly - oh, and that includes from ANYONE ELSE here too, so wise up people and keep it polite!!

I trust that I've made myself clear?

Marco.

P.S The supplied screw is supposed to be plastic (nylon).

[Marco]

Yes. Pointlessly elaborate packaging is usually a good indicator that the product actually does nothing.

Don't see any cause for complaint, you can try it and send back for full refund if not impressed. What more can be asked?

Indeed... I think Tony wanted his £300 to be spent on a box - and can you *believe* that the supplied screwdriver wasn't gold-plated? Talk about 'low rent'!:D:doh:

Marco.

[kininigin]

So at long last the Houdini is here :D and has now been fitted! So does it do the business? Bet your ass it does! I'm quite frankly amazed at the the difference it has made. From top to bottom everything is cleaner to the point that without it, everything just sounds coloured!

It's like going from a 22" black and white TV to a 65" 4k TV!

Now this is in the context of my system (which isn't too shabby) and I don't know if it would make a difference with a super high end tonearm but to me it makes my whole system sound like it has been upgraded.

I've been wanting to upgrade my croft to a 25R spec, which I think is about £400 and if i had and heard this difference, I'd say that was money well spent!

Nuff said, back to listening to records!

[The Vinyl Adventure]

Indeed... I think Tony wanted his £300 to be spent on a box - and can you *believe* that the supplied screwdriver wasn't gold-plated? Talk about 'low rent'!:D:doh:

Marco.

Indeed

[The Vinyl Adventure]

So at long last the Houdini is here :D and has now been fitted! So does it do the business? Bet your ass it does! I'm quite frankly amazed at the the difference it has made. From top to bottom everything is cleaner to the point that without it, everything just sounds coloured!

It's like going from a 22" black and white TV to a 65" 4k TV!

Now this is in the context of my system (which isn't too shabby) and I don't know if it would make a difference with a super high end tonearm but to me it makes my whole system sound like it has been upgraded.

I've been wanting to upgrade my croft to a 25R spec, which I think is about £400 and if i had and heard this difference, I'd say that was money well spent!

Nuff said, back to listening to records!

Once you get it as you seem to have, the Houdini is a no brainer IMO, enjoy it sir!

[kininigin]

Once you get it as you seem to have, the Houdini is a no brainer IMO, enjoy it sir!

I certainly get it, I really can't see how you wouldn't after listening to one fitted on your cartridge. I really have no idea how that other geeza thought it made barely any difference!

All I know is that the Houdini works and will transform your listening experience with vinyl. If you are sitting on the fence about trying one, I'd say go for it. There's a money back guarantee, so really is a no brainer.

[The Vinyl Adventure]

Here's one of mine.

https://scontent-lht6-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/119986750_3452761974747260_4553431860501199389_o.j pg?_nc_cat=108&_nc_sid=8bfeb9&_nc_ohc=0nmWYzTrp-gAX8eRlRI&_nc_ht=scontent-lht6-1.xx&oh=0ff72dbc0a9ccdecce0a7f5cf4c8e8a6&oe=5FB148E5

[WullieD20]

Okay, go get yourself a coffee, cause I’ve been at this for over three weeks now and there’s a lot to get through…..(for those who may be pre-opinionated about the Houdini, or have no interest in the first place, now is the time to move thread!) . . . .:D

Been using the Houdini with my London Reference for a couple of weeks now (fitted to Jelco 750L and Garrard 401 to start with), complete with one of Arthur’s lightweight headshells. And I have to say that I’m pretty impressed; more so than ever with the London previously. As always, the London can be a little unforgiving if the record is dirty in any way (even slightly), or is worn due to age. Otherwise everything is absolutely ‘spot on’ with a wide convincing sound stage, excellent separation between the instruments / performers and a fantastic deep and accurate bass which is so easy to follow on most records. A definite overall improvement!

I spent a good while ensuring that the geometry was all perfect, not an easy exercise with a London / Decca (!), but with everything set up as accurate as I can using a Dr Feickert protractor, a set of digital scales and a mirror for azimuth, I can only comment that I’m completely delighted with the results. Some pretty old records have suddenly ‘come to life’ and have become very enjoyable to listen to again producing the old chestnut of rediscovering the collection!


https://i.postimg.cc/15qLdX5V/Houdini-London-1.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

https://i.postimg.cc/VkP3PwdG/Houdini-London-2.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

To be continued.......

[WullieD20]

Houdini / Hana set up:

Very similar results were discovered after fitting the Houdini to a Hana SL and going through the same routine as with the London. However, I was already in discussions at the time to trade in the SL and purchase one of the new Umami Reds, so the SL was not played much on either the Garrard or the Technics TTs. However, the results were much the same as with the London and the performance of the Hana was noticeably improved. I have yet to try the Umami with the Houdini, so can’t comment at this time and it should be noted that anyone with a reasonably lightweight cartridge (AND using Arthur’s lightweight headshell) will probably need to use some form of headshell ballast, as I did with the Hana.

Also, I’ve found that with the correct length of screws, I managed to fit a ‘screwless’ Hana SL (see photo) to the ‘screwed type’ Houdini with no trouble. Screws of all sizes are obtainable from: Model Fixings (http://www.modelfixings.co.uk/) - and that include M2.5 and M2.6 (as fitted to the Umami!), as well as plastic and steel screws.


https://i.postimg.cc/zXvZ8NS8/Houdini-Hana-2.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

To be continued......:D

[WullieD20]

Houdini / Dynavector XV1t set up.

When the Houdini was fitted to my Dynavector and I had gone through the same set up routine as the London and Hana, but fitted to the Technics TT, I initially thought that there was little change after playing quite a few different records and this was (sort of) confirmed by doing an A/B comparison between the XV1t / Technics and with my Hana SL (without the Houdini) fitted to the 401/Jelco. Time after time the ‘inferior’ Hana set up appeared to be preferable to the supposedly ‘superior’ (and expensive) Dynavector/Technics set up, only to be confirmed when I returned the XV1t to a normal set up without the Houdini and I determined virtually no change.

All a wee bit weird, but possibly an understandable outcome based on the theory that the Houdini works well with most cartridges, but not particularly well with ALL cartridges?

https://i.postimg.cc/xjwxFbTr/Houdini-XV1t-1.jpg (https://postimages.org/)

My personal conclusions:

In many years of pursuing this hobby of ours I have discovered that an ‘upgrade’ change to some components, or even cables, may not manifest itself as the improvement one may expect. But, after a period of familiarisation and upon reversing the process by substituting the previous component back into the system, I can invariably determine the deterioration in sound quality, convincing me to pursue the upgrade path.
The value of a Houdini, in a ‘material’ sense, cannot be considered to be worth £300, so if you don’t have £300 to spend, or have negative thoughts on a product that you haven’t even heard first, don’t venture into Houdiniland! However, that’s not always what it’s about and there’s also the ‘money back guarantee’ that’s on offer, so what have you got to lose? (I personally can’t get my head around £840k for a pair of speakers - Magico?). My opinion is that the Houdini works very well with some (probably most) cartridges, but not necessarily all cartridges. I’m thoroughly enjoying the London/Houdini set up and I’m back to using the Dynavector without the Houdini. I’ve exchanged the Hana SL for the Umami Red and am over the moon with its performance so far, when fitted to the Technics, but currently without the Houdini. Who knows what the Houdini may bring to the party with the new Hana?

[CageyH]

Not many things in this hobby are worth the cost as far as “Material sense” in concerned.

[WullieD20]

Not many things in this hobby are worth the cost as far as “Material sense” in concerned.

:exactly:

However, I can live with 'time to develop', 'manufacturing costs', 'distribution', 'dealer stock holding', 'free loans of equipment with no charge,. . . . etc etc (over and above material costs)....... Nature of the beast!!

[matodono1]

I recently bought and fitted a Houdini to my Oracle Delphi and I've got to say first impressions were not good. One spare plastic screw, a cheap screwdriver and a basic bike instruction sheet and a low rent paper box.
I was left thinking to myself "where did my £300 go to?) I sat down to listen to it after sorting out the alignment and tracking weight. OK I heard more stuff coming from the speakers especially sounds or voices in the background became a little more pronounced and clearer. The bass sounded similar to before but had a slightly better texture being more plump and fruity. To my ears there has been no change to the high frequencies that I've heard so far. I would say that although the sound is quite lively, it still remains easy to listen too but I was just not getting what other users said they were getting.
The differences were very subtle and not instantly recognisable and in my own opinion not much better than the Origin Live Cartridge Enabler at £25. Do i feel short changed at £300? Yep I sure do so I'll be honouring the money back pledge and putting my enabler back on.
I would be dissapointed if I'd paid £100 for this so £300 is way OTT for a very slight difference in sound quality.
Being brutally honest if you can easily afford it then go ahead buy one, it makes a small difference, but if you are strapped for cash and baulk at the price, don't get it, you will be kicking yourself and end up trying to convince yourself that has changed your sound for the better.
I always thought the claims were too good to be true.

Marco has asked me to comment on this guy.

First of all his name is not Tony he is in fact named Raymond,

Secondly, if in my capacity as a representative of Funk I were to have poor relations with any one of you I promise you I would not seek to denigrate any one of you online either here or anywhere else so I am going to spare you all of actual gorey details of our interaction with this individual.

That said we have to defend ourselves and our product to at least some extent.

So here is the VERY shortform...

This guy was on our Facebook group "The Funk Firm" it is a private group that you have to apply to be a member. This guy showed some interest but immediately started trolling mainly about the price.
I personally spent two hours in consultation with this individual answering many of his questions and explaining what he could expect from Houdini and other Funk products.

However he continued to troll and was very critical of the method we were marketing Houdini and how we were presenting it. Including criticising other members of the group.
I warned him to cease and decist otherwise he would be removed, after a very rude and personal response he was removed.

What followed was very bizarre...

What is more bizarre is that while I was always the bad guy, Raymond was always and is to this day absolutely cordial in his interactions with Arthur.

So all I will say is that whilst he pretended to be someone else to buy the Houdini from elsewhere as we didn't want to deal with him. He got his Houdini with the sole intention of trying to denigrate it and even publishing his evil online, but even more bizzarrely is simultaniously emailing Arthur telling him how good it is, also enquiring about other products.

So we are about as confused as this poor individual seems to be. We will leave it to you to decide.

Matt... The Funk Firm.

[matodono1]

:exactly:

However, I can live with 'time to develop', 'manufacturing costs', 'distribution', 'dealer stock holding', 'free loans of equipment with no charge,. . . . etc etc (over and above material costs)....... Nature of the beast!!

Very very astute, it has been very much like that.

For sure launching a new product is not an easy undertaking. I am very pleased to see that you are enjoying yours and thank you for the very supportive posts.

Matt.

[matodono1]

So at long last the Houdini is here :D and has now been fitted! So does it do the business? Bet your ass it does! I'm quite frankly amazed at the the difference it has made. From top to bottom everything is cleaner to the point that without it, everything just sounds coloured!

It's like going from a 22" black and white TV to a 65" 4k TV!

Now this is in the context of my system (which isn't too shabby) and I don't know if it would make a difference with a super high end tonearm but to me it makes my whole system sound like it has been upgraded.

I've been wanting to upgrade my croft to a 25R spec, which I think is about £400 and if i had and heard this difference, I'd say that was money well spent!

Nuff said, back to listening to records!

Hi Darren,

I'm sorry I didn't get back you earlier on your PM.

I see that you have recieved and are enjoying your Houdini. So all is well that ends well. I am very pleased for you.

Also I am a personal friend of Glenn's so if there is anything you need in order to facillitate your Series 25 to R spec then please let me know.

I'll happy to assist.

Just for your interest I sent Glenn one of the very first Houdini's to put on his Dias. To this day I don't think he has gotten around to fitting it. He's always too busy. Gotta love that guy! :doh:



kind regards, Matt.

[kininigin]

Hi Darren,

I'm sorry I didn't get back you earlier on your PM.

I see that you have recieved and are enjoying your Houdini. So all is well that ends well. I am very pleased for you.

Also I am a personal friend of Glenn's so if there is anything you need in order to facillitate your Series 25 to R spec then please let me know.

I'll happy to assist.

Just for your interest I sent Glenn one of the very first Houdini's to put on his Dias. To this day I don't think he has gotten around to fitting it. He's always too busy. Gotta love that guy! :doh:



kind regards, Matt.

No worries Matt and I'm very much so enjoying the Houdini. Regarding the Croft upgrade don't really need anything from you. Just need to contact Glen and get it sorted. Hopefully I can get it done before the year is out. Thinking of selling one of my SUT's to fund it as I don't think I can justify it now the Houdini has put the cat amongst the pigeons!

[tim_bissell]

Hi all,

Just adding another voice to the choir; I initially fitted my Houdini to my Tarantella/FXR2/Goldring 1042 in the home office system, as it is connected to an Edirol ADC... it sounded a little sweeter, but the near-field speaker setup was not going to yield many revelations. Listening to a couple of with/without recordings at 96KHz/24 bits over headphone I could not hear much difference, but was reminded that a noticeable amount of analogue 'magic' is lost in the digitisation.

I swapped the cartridge over to my main system -- Vectored PT / FX3, TAG McLaren electronics, ATC SCM40s and tried the with/without again with just my ears... wow! The sweetness I noticed before came across as the whole sound being more 'relaxed'. Vocals sounded less strained, more natural. More texture to drum sounds, the sound stage maybe a smidge larger, but more space and separation between the instruments. Tried swapping back... nah, it is staying!

I can only compare against stuff I know, but the delta in sound improvement sounded to me to be close to the step change from a PT TOO/RB 300 to a Saffire/FXR2 demonstrator (which sold me the arm along with my Vector upgrade!) and more than I noticed swapping from a Goldring D1012 stylus to a D1042.

So to me (and others, it would seem), a proper hifi upgrade. I don't know in any detail how it works, but I am happy to pay for Arthur for the inspiration plus decades of experience which lead to the idea, plus the hard work of turning it into a product. For not much more than my car service and MOT, it seems like good value to me.

-- Tim

[alcarmichael]

OK. I’m intrigued. Email sent....

[bosa]

Seems like others are having more luck with communication than me.

Oh well...

[alcarmichael]

I have been in email correspondence with Arthur. I’m just waiting for someone else to send me out my invoice.

I have learned though that the extended offer to AoS members has now ended.

[bosa]

That’s fair enough, although I initially emailed Arthur on 11 Sept.

[CageyH]

Drop Matt a PM, and I am sure he will chase Arthur up.

It seems that there is a positive review by Alan Sircom on HiFi+. I am glad to know I am not imagining things.

[stereoblab]

Marco has asked me to comment on this guy.

First of all his name is not Tony he is in fact named Raymond,

Secondly, if in my capacity as a representative of Funk I were to have poor relations with any one of you I promise you I would not seek to denigrate any one of you online either here or anywhere else so I am going to spare you all of actual gorey details of our interaction with this individual.

That said we have to defend ourselves and our product to at least some extent.

So here is the VERY shortform...

This guy was on our Facebook group "The Funk Firm" it is a private group that you have to apply to be a member. This guy showed some interest but immediately started trolling mainly about the price.
I personally spent two hours in consultation with this individual answering many of his questions and explaining what he could expect from Houdini and other Funk products.

However he continued to troll and was very critical of the method we were marketing Houdini and how we were presenting it. Including criticising other members of the group.
I warned him to cease and decist otherwise he would be removed, after a very rude and personal response he was removed.

What followed was very bizarre...

What is more bizarre is that while I was always the bad guy, Raymond was always and is to this day absolutely cordial in his interactions with Arthur.

So all I will say is that whilst he pretended to be someone else to buy the Houdini from elsewhere as we didn't want to deal with him. He got his Houdini with the sole intention of trying to denigrate it and even publishing his evil online, but even more bizzarrely is simultaniously emailing Arthur telling him how good it is, also enquiring about other products.

So we are about as confused as this poor individual seems to be. We will leave it to you to decide.

Matt... The Funk Firm.

There was a thread about Houdini on Vinyl Engine and a new member - also with an Oracle Delphi - was initially positive and then started criticising both the design and execution. Then he started picking on another member, accusing him of misusing his Houdini, breaking it and returning it for a refund. When it transpired he was slagging off the wrong person he deleted the offending post but didn't apologise.

Very strange.

Jon

[matodono1]

Drop Matt a PM, and I am sure he will chase Arthur up.

It seems that there is a positive review by Alan Sircom on HiFi+. I am glad to know I am not imagining things.

https://scontent.flhr4-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/123438058_10159114629926474_4729425703140228545_o. jpg?_nc_cat=108&ccb=2&_nc_sid=b9115d&_nc_ohc=NzHpF5WZix0AX-E3P9W&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr4-2.fna&oh=699562daff2c13ea064539e32ec0d8e0&oe=5FC8E70C
https://scontent.flhr4-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/123432445_10159114629921474_8179135587757395780_o. jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=2&_nc_sid=b9115d&_nc_ohc=n9r79ezjv5wAX-A6Soa&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr4-2.fna&oh=f01b0cb860f8cb08d542d6ec8873e60d&oe=5FCA2280

[matodono1]

There was a thread about Houdini on Vinyl Engine and a new member - also with an Oracle Delphi - was initially positive and then started criticising both the design and execution. Then he started picking on another member, accusing him of misusing his Houdini, breaking it and returning it for a refund. When it transpired he was slagging off the wrong person he deleted the offending post but didn't apologise.

Very strange.

Jon

All we are trying to do is help people get the most out of their turntables.

None of the turmoil is neccessary, we are just here to enjoy music replay.

But thanks for your post.

Matt.

[matodono1]

https://scontent.flhr4-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/134044530_10222844953367645_1184848613941503490_o. jpg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=2&_nc_sid=825194&_nc_ohc=e4XJLZTOiL8AX8_h0GI&_nc_ht=scontent.flhr4-2.fna&oh=a19c788fa8dcdcdf48b79df274e3d7e9&oe=60171D7E

[CageyH]

I don’t think these files show the Houdini as anything other than good.
You didn’t hear the mid range on a busy track with the heavy cartridge.

However, it’s your website, so if you want them taken down, either edit my post, or let me know and I will do it.

I don’t know why Arthur would be worried about these, they are not a digital comparison of with and without. Just an enthusiast sharing his joy.

An amusing thing has occurred this morning.
I was browsing the inter web, casually looking at new turntables as you do.
I stumbled upon The Funk Firm LSD, and as part of the web page was a YouTube clip of it playing music.

Makes me wonder why AK was so against needle drops of the Houdini where a clear difference could be heard.

It is not up to me to argue though. I would still like to hear a “fully loaded LSD” to see how it compares to my SL1200.
I will soon have a 2nd input for vinyl....