Analog Upgrade itch


Hello ! I would like to upgrade my turntable / tonearm / phono preamp 

currently I am using Kuzma Stabi S / Stabi S VTA 12” tonearm / Gold Note PH10 phono amp. 
Gryphon Antelion EVO + Pandora pre , Magico A5 speaker. 

My music preference : 50% classical / 30% pop / 20% modern Jazz 

I like my current cartridge: Etsuro Urushi Cobalt so I am going to keep it. I would like to upgrade my Turntable (possible Linn LP12 or Kuzma Ref2 or any suggestions ) with Kuzma 4 point tonearm (or recommendation in the $ range?). My biggest uncertain is phono amp : I’d like to have warmer sound (tube preferred ) with ideally 2 inputs (Manley Steelhead or EMT126 are recommended by my local dealer but not sure if they are worth the money ) .  I know matching (cartridge / arm / phono stage) is more important in analog system so I’d like everyone’s comments / experience that matches my system. Musicality / warmth is what I’m after rather than microscopic details. Thanks in advance

128x128eddiechanghk

Showing 1 response by thekong

Hi @eddiechanghk , just want to clarify a couple of points regarding “active” and “passive”, which could be confusing for you. As I understand, the Vibraplane belongs to a class called pneumatic vibration isolators. In general, this kind of isolators is considered as “passive” devices. What is confusing is that within this class of “passive” isolators, there are passive and active models, as explained by @sksos. For the Vibraplane, the terms active and passive models only refers to the method of levelling (automatic vs manual).

 

The Herzan and it’s kind are considered as “active” vibration isolators. They physically generate a counter force to cancel out the vibration, hence the term “active” !

 

These vibration isolators were originally used in scientific laboratories, eg. under electronic microscopes etc. The “active” devices like the Herzan are considered more technologically advanced, and have better isolation specifications. They are also more expensive, as you have noticed.

 

I have a couple of floor standing pneumatic anti-vibration tables under my turntables and can attest to their benefits. However, I have not compared them to “active” platforms, like the Herzan, in my own system, so can’t say whether they can be even better. 

 

Hope this helps