I have an Orbe and always used the clamp but recently went back and compared w/o clamp. I was astounded by the sound w/o clamp. The sound stage really opened with more space/air between instruments. It was not a subtle difference. I also went back to experimenting with platter mats, finding them a big improvement. I had to go buy a Gyrodeck platter nut so I could use thicker mat.
Michell Gyro SE upgrade to Orbe clamp?
I just bought and installed a Michell Orbe clamp upgrade to my Gyro SE. The instructions do not mention which way the acrylic finishing ring should be installed. It appears to have a flat side and a convex side. It fits over the knurled platter locking nut either way. So... should the finishing ring be used with the flat side up or the convex side up? Perhaps... flat side up for thick records and convex side up for thin ones?