Difference between Brinkmann Bardo and Oasis?

Thanks again the thoughtful response, Phil. I believe the Oasis and Bardo share the bearing of the LaGrange and Balance but your points are well-taken. It's rather surprising to me that the tube PS makes such a difference, lying outside of the signal path. I've read the explanation but it's still surprising.

Bump. Can anyone describe the sonic differences between these turntables?

Syntax, it must be evening where you are. Either that or you're drinking in the morning again.

Thanks, Phil. What was your impression of the bass reproduction of these tables? Bass seemed to be the weakness noted by Fremer in his review of the Bardo, if only relative to the larger Brinkmanns.

Bill

I got the bit about the same bearing from Fremer:

"Brinkmann uses the same platter bearing in his belt-driven 'tables. While in those designs the bearing is electrically heated, that's not necessary in the Bardo, he says—the motor's quiescent current produces enough warmth."

I took this to mean that the bearing is heated, but by the motor itself rather than by the PS. Same bearing, different heating source. But I could easily be wrong.

Sksos1, have you compared the Bardo to the Balance, by chance, being a Brinkmann dealer?

Well, I went and did it. Oasis on the way. I should take delivery by the end of next week. Thanks to all.

Thanks, Captain. You're thinking of the Bardo with all the options. The Oasis has the same drive, platter, and bearing but comes stock with the crystal mat and clamp in a wood plinth (cherry in my case). I'll use either my Tri-planar or Phantom with it, and just the stock PS at first.

Hi Ps68,

Shipping was delayed while additional armboards were drilled, so it's not here yet. Judging by the tracking info, it ought to be landing at LAX around now (am I eager or what?), about to clear customs and head north. I'll report back after we get acquainted. I'll be using a Tri-planar to start because my Phantom II is with Bob Graham at the moment.

Here we are, nearly a decade later, and I'm still enjoying my Oasis. It's not my only deck but I won't part with it. The Bardo and Oasis share the same platter, with the adhered crystal mat coming stock on the Oasis. After experimenting with several mats (atop the crystal mat) and several other weights and clamps, I've concluded that the nude crystal mat is best, as is the Brinkmann clamp for this turntable.