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Clamp or weight for Technics Direct Drive?

I'm experimenting these days with a Technics SP-15 on the nice heavy Technics SH-15B2 plinth. Right now I'm running a Denon 103R in an Audio-Technica ATP-12T, and so far I like what I hear.

I'm wondering about using something to stabilize the records. I've generally used a clamp in the past, but the SP-15 has a very short spindle, and the collet on my Michell clamp doesn't reach down far enough to grab it. Is there an inexpensive clamp that would work? I could put a thinner mat on the platter, but the Technics OEM rubber mat is nice and does a great job of damping the alloy platter.

Would a record weight be preferable to a clamp? Seems like the Technics has at least some similarities to the heavier non-suspended tables that use a weight. Just not sure if the bearing in the SP-15 is stout enough to take the extra pressure.

If anyone is using a clamp or weight with their SP-10, 15, 25 or SL1200, I'd love to hear about your experience.

David
armstrod

Showing 4 responses by armstrod

armstrod OP
602 posts
 
Okay, so I think I should try a weight - seems like that will be a good match for the SP-15. Can anyone recommend a decent inexpensive one? Turntable Toys on eBay has 2 or 3 different models with slightly different weights, sizes, materials and prices. Has anybody used any of them? Where did you buy the one you have? I'm guessing the critical factors are whether the bottom is milled flat and the spindle hole is dead center. I'm not really concerned about cosmetics. It can be a maximum of about 1.5" high.

David
armstrod OP
602 posts
 
Psychicanimal,

I've done just that. I also wrote Kevin at KAB and he said he thought the Record Grip would work, but that a weight might be even better.

Was the Michell clamp you were using the Rega model for short spindles?
armstrod OP
602 posts
 
Ekobesky,

I considered the KAB rubber grip for a prior turntable, but I haven't had the best of luck with clamps that use friction fit rather than a mechanical collet. They seem to lose their grip over time, and then won't stay down on any record with a serious dish which, of course, are the ones that need clamping the most. Do you have experience with the KAB product that the grip stays tight? I'll also email Kevin at KAB and see what he thinks.

Thanks for the reminder that this may be a good solution.

David
armstrod OP
602 posts
 
Psychicanimal,

Taunting me with your one-off eBay find? :-)

Actually, that's exactly what I'm looking for, but your vendor doesn't appear to be offering any more and a search reveals no sign of the OEM.

The HRS clamp is interesting; it weighs about 10 oz. Do you think this is more weight than a Technics bearing can take? That's one of my questions. Also, the HRS is $195, pretty spendy for this application.

I've also found that there is a Rega version of the Michell clamp, specifically made for the short spindle Regas. Is this the version you were using on your 1200? How well did it work?

David
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