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Advice on a recently purchased Maplenoll Athena

I recently purchased a Maplenoll Athena from an Audiogon seller and need some advice.

I have uploaded 3 pictures that I hope will better communicate what the issue is.  The photo sub-platter shows the sub-platter and when the sub-platter is removed the plate is visible (plate).  In the middle of the plate is a spindle that attaches to the sub-platter and prevents the sub-platter from moving around.

After unpacking the turntable, I noted that the sub-platter was not in a fixed state (it was easily moved), so I removed the sub-platter to investigate further.  I noted that the spindle was just slightly above the plate and was not protruding enough to connect with the sub-platter.  I connected the air hose thinking that maybe the spindle needed air to raise to the correct height, however this wasn't the case.  I gently pushed down on the spindle, and it dropped below the plate.

I removed the plate and realized what the issue is:  if you review the photo entitled spindle there are two areas of the interest.  To the left of the motor is the spindle, and directly below is the hole where the spindle is to be placed.

The hole is larger than the spindle and when inserted the spindle drops through the plinth and the bottom of the table finally landing on the piece of furniture the turntable is currently placed upon.

Can someone clarify for me if this turntable is missing a sleeve or a ring of some sort in which the spindle is inserted to hold it in place?  If so, does anyone know of a replacement part that would work?

Thank you for your time and as always, best regards.

Joel  
 

jpost

Showing 3 responses by pentode807

pentode807
3 posts
 

Joel, I have just purchased a Maplenoll Athena and am in need of some direction. Mine does not have the compressor or a manual with it so I will need to find one. I would like to pick your brain if possible.

pentode807
3 posts
 

Thank you for your response. There are two switches on the front panel is one for the compressor and is the other for the turntable? Is there a trick to leveling up the TT with the four suspension screws? As for maintenance what are the basics? According to what I have found on the internet these came with many different weights on the platters. Mine seems very heavy and maybe require more than 7-10 psi to lift. Is this a possible concern? Again, thank you for any insight you can give me!

pentode807
3 posts
 

Update to Maplenoll Athena TT. First, of the two push button switches on the front panel only one is connected. It turns the motor on and off. Second I flipped the unit upside-down and found an air control valve, which I do not fully understand. But it can shut air off to the platter. Third I had a large aquarium aerator pump with dual outlets. It is able to lift the platter but not enough for the tone arm. I then used both outlets into a two to one "T" and the tone arm now floats. Lastly, I did order an Alita AL-15 to supply air better. It should arrive tomorrow. In anticipation of its arrival, I have done some basic cartridge alignment and down force to 1.5 grams. Almost forgot, I bought three 5/16th carriage bolts for leveling the unit as the originals were missing. So, things are moving along quite well. One thing I need to address is the drive belt. It seems very loose. Since I have not actually hooked the table up to the system not sure if it is an immediate problem. Thanks to all who have responded! Reading all the notes here have helped immensely!

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