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Basis Model 2100 vs Michell Orbe SE II

I am considering the Purchase a Michell Orbe SE II Turntable, but have recently started looking into the Basis Model 2100 only for the reason that I may be able to purchase this model at a good price.

The Michell table is brand new sealed box while the basis is a dear demo used model. The basis included a rega arm while the Michell would require me to purchase the tonearm separately.

If I were to normalize the pricing for comparisons, the Michell would set me back about $1300.00 more then the used Basis. This takes into account the fact that the new Michell table is more expensive and would require the purchase of a tonearm.

Which is the better turntable; the Basis Model 2100 or the Michell Orbe SE II?

Which one do you think is the better deal ?

Thanks
tazuser
8 responses Add your response
artmaltman
769 posts
 
I love my Basis 2001 and have heard great music from various Michell tables. I don't think you could go wrong either way. The Rega arm is a limitation, but dealers often offer trade-ups. I have never gotten around to upgrading the Rega on my 2001, although I've heard that certain arms provide extraordinary improvement.
art
patmatt
86 posts
 
My advice would be to buy the Basis. Then, send what is already a darn good arm to Origin Live, and let them convert it into something that apparently can compete with the super arms, and for a reasonable cost.(WWW.Originlive.com). No offense to the Michell which is a great table, it's just that I think your budget will allow you to go farther sonically with the Basis, which is really built to last as well. It would be interesting to know what cartridge you'll be using, and perhaps you can share that with us. Personally, I don't think I can recommend a "flavor", but a good "chef" would be Benz Micro.
pctower
54 posts
 
Have not heard the Orbe, but owned the 2100 and was extremely happy with it. I've since upgraded to the 2500 and my ultimately go to the Debut V. Basis allows full retail credit on all trade-ins for upgrade.

Having said all that, after seeing (not hearing) the new Clearaudio Champion at a local dealer yesterday, that would certainly be on my short list. The one I saw had a double chassis and a massive platter and was $2200. I understand that Clearaudio also allows full retail credit on upgrades.

Both tables are distributed by Musical surroundings http://www.musicalsurroundings.com/.

Clearaudio doesn't use suspension, which is always an option with Basis, so that might be a consideration.
tazuser OP
36 posts
 
Thanks for the information. I certainly welcome additional comments as I am not yet sure which route to take.

The cartrigdes I am considering are the Benz Glider or ACE , but have not ruled out the Dynavector cartridges. Its hard to say at this point because I am just starting out.

I see that the recommendations are leaning towards the Basis over the Michell. I don't seem to be able to find as much information on the Basis product line as the Michell line.

Does the Basis Model 2100 use suspension?

Is the Basis a belt drive ?

Anyone know what kind of motor the Basis uses?

Thanks
glide3
402 posts
 
I think both are excellent tables but having owned both I prefer the Michelle Orbe. Can't go wrong with either.
pctower
54 posts
 
Tazuser: Call Garth at 510•420•0379. He's the Basis and Clearaudio distributor, and can tell you all you need to know about Basis. He is very knowledgeable.
gundam91
506 posts
 
Is there any reason hindering you from shopping around for a good price on the Michell Orbe? I had my eyes set on a Gyro SE + modified Rega arm last year, but came away with a Michell Orbe SE II + SME V + Benz M2 because I was able to get everything at 40% off the retail price, all brand new w/ warranty! You just need to be patient and shop around.
tazuser OP
36 posts
 
Gundam91,
If you purchase everything all at once and buy such expensive gear new they will usually give you a discount. I can't afford to buy everything new and all at once.
Besides the margins on the SME V are so high that most of the discount is coming from the tonarm. I think the SME V new retails for almost as much as the table itself. Thats my take on this for what it's worth.

Regardless, you got a great deal and if I could do the same I would.
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