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Is a PTP Solid 12 (Lenco) worthy of a $5k cartridge

Calling audiophiles who have heard these PTP modified Lenco GL75. It looks like a neat modification/restoration. But can they be considered as a serious front-end worthy of a $5k cartridge and $10k phonostage ?

There is a lot of fan following for vintage idler drives, especially those which are updated and modified with the latest components but I seldom see people using top quality ancillaries with these turntables. I have been going through a lot of posts on forums and youtube videos related to these TTs. Almost every time I see these paired with some Denon 103 variants or sometimes an SPU. I am fancying to put a high quality Dynavector/ZYX/Benz/Transfiguration on it. Will it make sense ?


pani

Showing 5 responses by pani

pani OP
1,214 posts
 
Hi, I have seen a few videos of Bob Wood's TT on youtube. They are okay. He also uses an SPU and couple of other vintage MMs. I am looking for opinion on whether a serious front end consisting of something like Ortofon Anna or Lyra Atlas on a PTP Solid 12 would make sense or is the table simply not ready for that kind of cartridges.

I know that people who use Jean Nantais Reference lencos use top cartridges on it. Arthur Salvatore is a good example. But PTP is a relatively lower cost build so many buyers probably dont even think of spending a lot on cart.
pani OP
1,214 posts
 
Hi Gilles130, I see multiple platter options for Lenco:

1. The original platter
2. Stainless steel platter shown on PTP website. It has holes on it
3. Gun metal platter by puresound
4. Original platter but double stacked 

Whats your take on all these options ? Which one is the best ?
pani OP
1,214 posts
 
Having owned a souped up Garrard 301 and listened to fairly souped up Lencos, I know what it does to music in general. That is definitely up my alley. I have not heard the PTP version which as per some is a more refined machine after the various mods (top plate, platter, plinth and bearing). In this config I expecting more silence and transparency. I know it would still fall short of top belt drives but if it is good enough to do justice to a $5k cart, I am happy.

Thanks Lewm and Gilles130. I have a Monarchy Audio AC regenerator which I plan to use with the PTP Lenco for AC conditioning. Whether a walker or Eagle PSU would be better still, only those who have done some comparison can tell. 
pani OP
1,214 posts
 
Lewm, I meant in the area of quietness and transparency belt drives may better the Lenco. Correct me if I am wrong. 
pani OP
1,214 posts
 
Thanks. Thats good news.

I am now shortlisting tonearms. The obvious cost effective choice is Thomas Schick. But I am also looking at Origin Live, SME 3012R or a Fidelity Research FR64s. 
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