Thomas:
I have the "SL" version of the Helikon. I was unable to make a direct comparison with the standard version though. Originally I was going to get the standard version, but my dealer suggested that the SL was more suitable for the phono stage on my equipment (Naim Audio)
I am upgrading from a Lyra Lydian and there are signifcant differences in higher levels of resolution, wider dynamic range, less groove noise and faster bass. All this is in comparison to a Lydian though. My dealer has heard both Helikons and felt that there was a significant difference between the two, with the SL having the advantage. Specifically he mentioned wider dynamic range and better resolution.
Don't know that you're going to find a dealer who has both, but all the information I got led me to beleive the SL was a better choice.
So far I have been quite pleased with about 30 hours on it. It seems broken in, but of course I won't know unless there is a further change.
Arthur Bye
I have the "SL" version of the Helikon. I was unable to make a direct comparison with the standard version though. Originally I was going to get the standard version, but my dealer suggested that the SL was more suitable for the phono stage on my equipment (Naim Audio)
I am upgrading from a Lyra Lydian and there are signifcant differences in higher levels of resolution, wider dynamic range, less groove noise and faster bass. All this is in comparison to a Lydian though. My dealer has heard both Helikons and felt that there was a significant difference between the two, with the SL having the advantage. Specifically he mentioned wider dynamic range and better resolution.
Don't know that you're going to find a dealer who has both, but all the information I got led me to beleive the SL was a better choice.
So far I have been quite pleased with about 30 hours on it. It seems broken in, but of course I won't know unless there is a further change.
Arthur Bye