High mass vs Low Mass Turntables - Sound difference?


As I am recently back playing with analog gear after some 15 years away, I thought I would ask the long time experts here about the two major camps of record players -- high vs low mass-loaded-type tables...

For example, an equivalently priced VPI table (say a Classic, Aries or Prime) versus a Rega RP8/10 or equivalent Funk Firm table...  the design philosophies are so different ... one built like a tank, the other like a lightweight sports car...

Just wondering if the folks here have had direct experience with such or similar tables, and what have been your experiences and sense of strengths and weaknesses of these two different types of tables.



jjss49

Showing 1 response by perazzi28

Good comparison but why limit your choice to either A or B?  These two approaches have taken their turntables to their scientific limit. 
"audiotroy"  is on to it.
Enter George Merrill/Robert Williams and the Merrill-Williams R.E.A.L. 101.2 Turntable. http://www.realturntable.com/product-overview.html
Easily eclipses most anything at any price.  The science involved in this system approach addresses all forms of energy management and speed control.
Mr. Merrill has made turntables since the late 70's and he currently makes 2 budget turntables.  The "PolyTable" turntable starts at $1595
http://hifigem.com/polytable.html
The second is the "PolyTable SUPER 12" at $2995 both with tonearms
http://hifigem.com/PolyTableSUPER12.html  This table easily competes with the likes of the $10,000 crowd!
Just the facts here and I have no financial interest in any of these products...
Happy listening!