Well... at least its not pink.... :ner: ;)Quote:
Originally Posted by Oldpinkman
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Well... at least its not pink.... :ner: ;)Quote:
Originally Posted by Oldpinkman
Not quite, I rather like a spot of pimping ... takes me back to, oh never mind. Nice typeface too btw, anyone know what it is?Quote:
Originally Posted by Audio Al
I have to say though I do like the etchings that tell you that your speed is rock solid.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Andrei
I like the text too:cool:
Any discounts for cash...
Folks this must be a joke!!
After more than three years of providing the SL1200 aficionados with quality upgrades to their machines in a professional and sober manner, and watching all the other would be experts try to follow my lead in what has always been a very limited boutique market; I am gob smacked at the seemingly sheer stupidity of the recent demonstration of silly salesmanship.
To offer a platter with the grotesque lettering around it’s periphery is surely about as intellectually valid as offering a wind-up-gramophone to a kindergarten. To say nothing of the fact that it appears to be a crude attempt at high jacking the Techie’s reputation. It must surely be a joke?? But perhaps Funk’s marketing manager thinks it is good stuff and is serious.
The idea of offering a platter in two parts is something that I have always done from the early days, excepting that I have integrated them into the one unit for rigidity. Making them as two separate parts is the easy way. There really is nothing new that can be added to the SL1200 that has not already been done.
http://i1315.photobucket.com/albums/...ps702f322c.jpg
:spew:
Sorry to be so blunt; but, the combination of the bling lettering and what looks like a seam running around the platter (maybe it's just a removable plastic seal or something; hopefully), has totally put me off. If this was a marketing idea, it sure didn't work for me. To be honest, I'd rather have a one-piece platter, as well. Having completed my digital excursions for a while, I'm looking at what I can do to spruce up the analog front end. The Mk. 1 Funk? Possibly. Mike New platter of some sort? Possibly. Mk. 2 Funk? I don't think so. Maybe, I'm missing something. Wasn't the idea of the Mk. 1 that the use of a mat wasn't necessary/essential?
No, the Mk. I Funk Platter still needs a mat, ideally an Achromat. Bonding the two together is what works brilliantly well, giving the vinyl an ideal coupling which is as dead as a dead thing.Quote:
Originally Posted by WOStantonCS100
I think the point here is that, as well as being a rather talented inventor/audio engineer, Arthur also enjoys expressing his creativity and hates blandness. He likes his designs to 'stand out from the crowd', which has always been the Funk way - and I applaud that :)
However, in the case of the Technics, its visual appearance (in stock form) is already rather 'busy', with lots of writing, logos, pitch controls (with also writing all around those), and so adding more writing around the platter, thus adding to the busyness, is simply a step too far...
I would imagine that the new platter would look good on Techies that have been 'minimalised', i.e. where the pitch controls have been removed, together with all the logos and writing (and in some cases where the top plates have been spray-painted a different colour), and where the writing around the MKII Funk platter would then add a touch of, well, 'funkiness'!
However, visually, it just doesn't work on stock Techies, although like Andrei, I like the typeface of the writing. It also should be remembered that Arthur has said that the platter is available to purchase sans-writing.
Anyway, putting appearances aside for now, the bottom line is how does the new platter SOUND, in comparison with the MKI?
In that respect, it's over to you, Martin, just as soon as you get a chance to have a listen. When you get the platter, after you've have a chance to listen for yourself, I'll pop down too, and we can have a day together, getting out heads around exactly what it's doing, and write up our thoughts for the forum. Quite simply, if the MKII is better, I'm sure we'll both be buying one! ;)
Marco.
Well, I don't have an interest in any of the horses in this particular race, but Mike's post above saddens me quite a bit to see that there's more than a little bitterness coming into play.
Mike, I don't think the above does anyone any favours, and least of all you. The design in the photo doesn't appeal to me either, but I wouldn't dream of calling it's creator silly, stupid or intellectually inadequate. Why does any product have to be soberly presented? That's the choice of the designer and if customers don't flock to it, it's his risk. Given the nature of many owners of this turntable, I'd expect the design is spot on to many of them.
The last sentence surprises me:
....really?Quote:
There really is nothing new that can be added to the SL1200 that has not already been done.
I've just spoken to Arthur.
The platter can be supplied without lettering. With or without - no custom options
The hub is being remachined to fit the Mike New Bearing (many thanks to Neil and Martin for their assistance in this regard)
The glue join is a function of the composite material and the restrictions of height available for a platter on the Technics. My pimped PT will drop the new platter inside the existing acrylic, and cover the whole shebang up with an achromat glued over the top. But my PT platter is over twice the depth of the Technics. The alternatives would be (possibly) for a polished finish which would take the retail price up to about £960, or a metal band (my idea). I have had a weekend of having the weaknesses in my good ideas explained to me. (Another friend explaining noise reduction and power supplies ideas which were flawed) Small volumes again, the metal band would involve having a 320mm tube produced and then precision cut and heat fitted - estimated retail price an EXTRA £800. Frankly £800 on a Techie platter is already big bucks, and I think reason has to set in somewhere. But the polished option, subject to trialling, would be feasible at about £960.
I don't want to escalate the hostility with Mike New that a few funky letters seem to have provoked, but I feel it appropriate to address the specific issue of the "2 piece" platter. It is actually 4 piece. It is in the nature of a design idea based on bonded composite materials that they are - composite. The innovative material and construction of this platter are what is - innovative.
One of our great frustrations at PT was that we innovated and others copied or engineered up. I would like to repeat a point I made in an earlier post - The Pink Triangle was a major ground breaking innovation. Prior to that there had been no significant development of the basic turntable concept. There were three drive mechanisms and solid or suspended, all done pretty much the same. At around the same time as the PT the Oracle arguable offered some true innovation (primarily the integration of a non-flat platter, mat compound and clamp - truly innovative). The PT offered acrylic platter, inverted bearing, saphire thrust plate, mass balanced suspension instead of unbalanced floating isolation, asymetric (no standing waves) sub-chassis from light, rigid, low-resonance aerolam, needle talk adjustment as well as convenience features like the cable dressing and suspension adjustment, transit bolt. Oh - and bucked the trend with a DC motor (hardly an innovation, but a trend buster).
Regarding the Technics, instead of making a metal on metal bearing which is better engineered than the original, Arthur plans an innovation. Instead of a metal platter to replace a metal platter he has innovated - twice. Arms - the Jelco which is so popular is an S shaped metal tube with detachable headshell like the Technics. F dot cross is probably the biggest single innovation in tonearm technology to date. And unremarkably, sounds significantly (and measures significantly) better than conventional arms. The Achromat - not felt, cork, or rubber - but a new innovative (application) for a material. Arthur, like my other friends in audio, own patents because they innovate.
Marco's (very sound) KISS advice reminds me of a classic definition of STUPIDITY. Which is to keep doing the same thing, and expect a different outcome.
I have been very priviliged to be friends with, and work with, some true innovative geniuses in audio. Arthur is one of them. :clap:
Guys, I'm working with Arthur on the hub/MN Bearing fit issue and Arthur is currently altering the hub design a touch for me to further test for proper fit. More news as soon as I've done further testing. Don't despair, I'm sure that the mismatch can be overcome.
Andrei
Sorry - missed your question about the font. I'll ask Arthur. Almost certainly an Apple exclusive. Pink used Rockwell, but now you can get it on PC's too I suspect Apple snobbery will have set in. But I'll ask himself later.:)
Ah, so you've got one to play with already? ;)Quote:
Originally Posted by MartinT
Marco.
Easy tiger. Just a hub - not the platter. AK saving on the postage I guess! :)Quote:
Originally Posted by Marco
Lol... Ah, I see - my boo-boo! :)
Incidentally, if the MKII is found to be notably superior, sonically, to the MKI, you can put me down for a polished one (without lettering). I hate compromises ;)
Marco.
Ho Ho Ho Richard, I would have thought I had done most of the "innovations" some three years ago as far as the
Technics SL1200 is concerned, my goodnes you do get excited!!
I would have expected nothing less Marco. However, I can't put you down for anything. You will have to get the man himself to do that. And I'm not sure how he does sell Techie bits - whether they are only via authorised dealers like other Funk stuff. I would have thought that's quite likely if you take a look at his website.
I have heard the platter. Would be real surprised if you don't end up with one. I'm rather keen on one for me - and I don't have a bloody Technics! :)
Mike, just a thought, so we can put the platter thing to bed...any chance you could send Martin an ETP platter (it needn't be a new one, just a test sample or whatever), on or before the MKII Funk one arrives, so we can compare the three platters (Funk MKI and MKII, MN ETP), and offer some constructive input on the sonic merits of all three platters, in conjunction with your bearing, for the benefit of forum members?
I'm sure you'll agree that this would be both a sensible and useful thing to do :)
You never know, the ETP may turn out to be the 'winner'.... ;)
Marco.
Lol - I know. I was being somewhat facetious, along with expressing my interest on what I would choose if I were going for a MKII :)Quote:
Originally Posted by Oldpinkman
Marco.
From a design perspective I like the stock Technics platter. I like to check the speed is correct. I notice that all (to my knowledge) alternative platters are sans strobe dots.
I am fully aware that strobe discs are available and I do have one but that's not the point I'm making.
Lol - it just shows you how tastes differ... Removing the the strobe markings (as I think they look ugly and cheapen the look of the T/T) was one of the things that motivated me to change the stock platter in the first place! :eyebrows:
Marco.
Marco,Quote:
Originally Posted by Marco
As I write this I am completing one of five ETP Platters for David, it will be a plain top (no label recess) and no brass inserts.
I would hope to post it to him on Monday,
I am sure he is following this thread with interest and will contact Martin, I do know that he has a couple of audio magazine reviews
scheduled, so I will leave it to him to arrange a suitable date.
Yeah and Amen to that DaveO old mate :eyebrows: As I have and use the MN copper ali platter, MN bearing, and MN bearing plate I'm wondering how this will gell with Martin T's TT especially as he has super Araldited his MN bearing plate to the chassis, just curious? I'm sure it won't affect sound quality performance but will emphasise the visual aspect of the larger platter lamination joint at the periphery of Funk Mk2? Wonder again if this will be machined away on the final marketed platter, just curious again should be for the price :scratch:? As for the flashy lettering on the side, no not for me it might distract from landing the stylus accurately :lol:.Quote:
Originally Posted by Mains Cables R Us
By the way I ditched my Achromat in favour of Oyaide's BR-12 antivibration fine grained tungsten mixed butyl rubber mat with tuning holes arranged in spiral pattern with tapered structure angled at 1.0deg from centre circle to edge for correction of any possible record warping. A record stabilizer/weight of more than 300g is recommended to fit tightly to the angled surface of the BR-12 mat. I use the Furatech stabilizer weighing in at 350g, a perfect combinational match with the MN copper ali platter to my ears and within my system. I think all are available from MCRU, yes a plug/shill (?) I know but Arthur K/Funk does get a goodly slice of the publicity cake? Mike New if you are reading this try one, the BR-12 its half the price of an Achromat to boot. By the way Dave/MCRU made me aware of the BR-12 at the recent Whittlebury Show.
With the final new psu upgrade in place I've reached final destination with my 1210. Ciao.
Similarly, I have no intention of changing from my MN Base Plate + Bearing with Funk Platter + Achromat unless there is a compelling reason for change at a reasonable cost. Having heard the Air Force turntable with Cobra arm and Koetsu cartridge last week, I am happy that what I have with the Technics / Dynavector / Shelter combination is very very close, and at an affordable total outlay.
Hi Marco, I'm glad you've included the ETP in the mix, I've a feeling you'll like it. Will be interesting to see if you prefer it's sonic presentation in your system with the Achromat or softer stock 3mm techie mat :)Quote:
Originally Posted by Marco
I hear ya Martin, I feel the same. MN bearing and his ETP, with Micro Seiki MA 202 and 2M Black play great music where I feel no need to find change that combo - next upgrade will be speakers. Still always look forward to Techie related reviews though as always interesting and informative (and you never know :eyebrows:).Quote:
Originally Posted by MartinT
Hi Mike,Quote:
Originally Posted by Mike_New
Sorry, David who?
Nice one, though. That sounds like a plan. If you could ask David to contact either myself or Martin (I'm sure you've got both our email addresses) when he's finished with the ETP, and ask him to send it on, then we can include it in the group platter 'shootout' :)
Marco.
Now that's interesting! Can't say I'm too surprised though, given what I've heard with my own T/T when comparing it to some seriously high-end decks ;)Quote:
Originally Posted by MartinT
I've managed to arrange with Guy to hear his STST turntable (recently exhibited at Windsor), which he's bringing round to my place over the Christmas holidays, along with the Vida phonostage, so that should also be interesting :)
Marco.
P.S Robert, the ETP deserves to be assessed, as it is undoubtedly a major contender!
David Brook (MCRU) is an agent for Mike New.Quote:
Originally Posted by Marco
Lol - *THAT* David (daftee boy)... Soz, I should've guessed! :doh:
Marco.
dafteeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeQuote:
Originally Posted by Marco
:lol:
So, I'd have to pay extra for a proper fit and finish? :scratch: That doesn't set well with me. My suggestion would be to forget the lettering and make sure those platters go out polished... sans upcharge.Quote:
Originally Posted by Oldpinkman
Folks,
With all the frantic talk about Richards new Platter, you all seem to have forgotten that It was I who fiist "innovated" and produced the "Copper Bonded Alluminium Platter" of which about 20 were sold to appreciating users.
Then eventually, some 6 months later when Richard/Funk eventually worked out how to make one; He came out with his Acrylic version with
[no metal centre boss/hub and no screwed holes for easy removal of the platter]
All of a sudden both Martin and Marco dropped my platter in favour of the Richard/Funk version.
The reason as explained by Martin was that the Copper Bonded Platter was too good at reproducing Bass!!!
So perhaps for all thos people who enjoy the Bass notes in their music perhaps we should also include my Copper Bonded Platter.
Or perhaps Martin and Marco can remember how very good it was!!
I then developed the ETP platter as a slightly brighter platter with less weight.
Mike, I think you're greatly overreacting now. That is NOT the reason I switched to the Funk platter from yours. And remember, I didn't ever have the bonded platter.
What was the reason then martin???
Because I have an email from you saying that with your setup you did not need the extra Bass that my platter is able to offer.
PM Sent.Quote:
Originally Posted by Mike_New
I think it comes down to taste. As an example, the very excellent Trans-Fi Salvation turntable comes with a choice of aluminum or acrylic platter. I think Vic has caught on that there is a certain amount of personal preference that comes into play; so, why not offer both (which you kind of do now, in the ETP).
I'm also guessing there are those who continue to happily use the bonded platter, which is my leaning at present; so, no worries. Can't be all things to all people. Choice is good. I don't think there was any intent by Marco or Martin to downplay what the MN bonded platter brings to the table (pun intended). After all, Martin and Marco are only 2 sets of ears; everyone has their own pair. ;)
Everyone jumps on a good idea. If Richard jumped on one, so be it. Just keep doing what you do, Mike. We appreciate it! :D I'm still lovin' the bearing. We'll see what's next.
The primary reason was a clarity and transparency in the midrange from the Funk platter, lifting detail from the mix. Your platter (not a later bonded example) had a very slight haziness in this area. Yes, the absolute output of the Funk's bass was lower (there was not a lot in it) but the texture and detail in the bass went up, and for that reason I said it was not an issue in my system. It was never a compelling reason one way or another.Quote:
Originally Posted by Mike_New
I don't think this is helpful, Mike. There is no need to analyse to the nth degree our reasons for our choices. There are plenty of Technics upgrades out there and we nearly all have a different selection when you include the arm and other parts. You still make the best bearing I've yet heard for the deck and, if you work with Arthur, you will have access to even more modders out there.
Yeah, Mike, you're getting a bit 'heavy', mate - and it's not cool. Just chillax and worry not about what folk choose to use. At the end of the day, everyone gets their slice of the cake :)
Marco.
I really must get my finger out and start making technics platters. I'm missing all the fun :stalks:
I started it all :lol:
And I have ordered a Platter from Mike
Can I come out now :sofa: PLEASE ! :D
Just creep around quietly and for goodness' sake keep your head down!Quote:
Originally Posted by Audio Al
For a while now AoS has been a springboard for Mike to expose his products to a wider audience and as a small manufacturer I am sure this has been more than a little helpful, then along comes another manufacturer to steal some of his thunder. However this is always likely to happen where there is a market opportunity and the fact that another manufacturer has seen fit to enter the fray should be viewed in a positive light. Competition is a good thing as it can encourage all concerned to raise their game.
Spot on, Dave. Competition in business should always be viewed as a good thing! :)
No-one has a God-given right to forever be 'da man'.
Marco.
I bought the original copper bonded platter and I still use it. I can testify that it does produce BASS and lots of it. I've seen three new platters being developed in the time that I have owned Mike's original. It's great to see the 1210 being developed at such a pace. I dont think I'll be changing my platter just yet but it would be interesting to see how this new version develops. Has anyone actually compared Mike's alternative platter to the old Funk acryllic platter?Quote:
Originally Posted by Mike_New
Apart from you of course dear lord and master :lol:Quote:
Originally Posted by Marco
I will hopefully get my ETP platter before the Owston meeting on the 9th (come on mike get your finger out :) )
If anyone who has a MKI funk platter cares to join the party in Owston we can dance merrily around the room to Sister Sledge comparing platters :lol:
I invited David Price as well so I would say he could be judge and arbitrator as he has no axes to grind, if it does not arrive then hey ho!
Quote:
Originally Posted by Audio Al
Why not try one upgrade at time Mr Allen- ie; the bearing:scratch:
Then there is the " Turbo" to try too.........:ner:
Quote:
Originally Posted by Tarzan
Don't forget the Timestep PSU :ner:
All or nothing lad all or nowt
PS , there is something else as well ;)