Nottingham Analogue

[glenann]

Hi all,

I'm trying to decide which NA turntable to buy. There seems to be so many permutations. I'd appreciate any experience please.

I'm looking at either the Ace Spacedeck with the 10" arm or the Space 294. Currently I have a Rothwell Simplex and an AT VM95SH on my vintage Technics... I'm thinking that I'll get an LOMC and a suitable SUT. Which way should I go, or what have you heard/got? Is the 294 better or just different? Obviously there's the heavy kit I can upgrade to at some point and the PSU.

Any thoughts on MC carts as well please? Hana SL MK2, ML or any other options? I hate sibilance or any harshness, brightness of any kind, but I like plenty of detail.

Thanks in advance

[fiddlemaker]

As a long term NA owner, I'd say that the Ace Spacedeck is probably the sweet spot in the range. I think that Tom Fletcher's design principles were so right that even the most modest NA turntables can embarrass much more expensive decks. I started with a Horizon (which comfortably saw off my previous LP12) and subsequently upgraded to a Hyperspace. The difference was worthwhile but not earth shattering. I also upgraded from a 10" ace space to a 12" Ace Anna. In my case this was a big improvement as my Decca cart was definitely happier in the slightly heavier arm.

I'd suggest contacting NA directly to ask their advice (and maybe arrange a visit ?). They are lovely people and they won't give you any kind of hard sell.

[glenann]

Thanks Fiddlemaker, appreciate the comments. That's the way I was leaning I think. Although I like the idea of the oversized platter of the 294, I understand that the heavy kit gets a long way there. I'll give NA a call tomorrow and have a chat with them. I'm thinking I'll get the Spacedeck and 10" arm which allows me to get a decent cartridge sooner rather than later.

Any body got any thoughts on carts please? I was thinking of a Hana, but I did have a Soundsmith Carmen on my old TD125 and Jelco TT years ago. That was awesome. Anyone got experience there? I wouldn't need a SUT then... So many options, sorry

[hifi_dave]

In my humble opinion as someone who has sold more Notts than any other in the UK, I would recommend the Ace Space over the Space deck. Price difference is not worth bothering with but the upgrade in sound is well worth it. Stick any of their great arms on it and away you go for years of trouble free enjoyment.

It's a great pity that Notts products rarely get a mention in the UK, they are a well kept secret but there is little to compete. Their market is overseas and that is what they concentrate on so if you order anything from Notts now it is 6 weeks delivery.

Hana work well as do the excellent new Nd range from Rega.

[glenann]

Thank you Dave, appreciate that. I did mean the Ace Spacedeck, sorry if I didn't make that clear. It does seem to be the best bang for the buck. I did send an email to you at Radlett, not sure if you've received it or not.
Interesting about the Rega carts, never thought about those. But I think it'll probably be a Hana. I might stretch to the ML if you think that'd be worthwhile?
Thanks again

[hifi_dave]

Hi Glen.

Yes, I did reply and would be pleased to help but probably easier if we chat via e-mail as I don't always see the forum.

[glenann]

Ah, just seen your email. I've replied again before I saw this. Thanks Dave