I seem to remember that shoot-out, which was extended by a few more tables and arm/cartridge combos subsequently. But, now that the source is revealed, maybe it takes on a lesser meaning.
But, to clarify, some listeners preferred the Hyperspace to the 255, some adamantly so. Others gave the nod to the 255. So, on that basis, it could be considered a tie, I suppose. I would respectfully disagree that because the 255 is $1000 cheaper, that makes it the clear winner, though. First, some very much preferred the Hyperspace, with cost not entering the equation. OTOH, and I have to agree with Raul's point in another thread on this, it only shows that some preferred the Hyperspace or the 255 with the Illustrious and the Shelter. Doesn't mean the same result would occur if, say, both tables were fitted with a different arm and cartridge. As an example, I'm sure (from experience) that there are arm/cartridge combos that would allow the Hyperspace to clearly best the 255 and some that would allow the 255 to exceed the Hyper in comparison. Thus, the previous results we experienced were somewhat limited - if not at least partially helpful. I will not descend into the endless qualifiers argument with respect to comparisons. Suffice it to say that precious few of us have the time and/or money (at least I dont) to compare every iteration of table/arm/cartridge/cable/isolation/motor/etc. combos to see which have the ultimate synergy with each, so our comparisons are better than none, perhaps. With respect to the $1000 price difference, I believe that is with consideration of the retail cost of the Hyperspace as listed by some dealers. They can be had for less than retail, of course, and unless I am mistaken, Teres prices already have the direct-to-consumer price built in, so no further discount is applicable. As such, the actual realized price difference between the tables may be less.
With respect to the 245, my opinion was that the performance of the Spacedeck (original platter NOT the later, and IMHO inferior, heavy kit) was better to my ears and with four or five different arm/cart combos. In fact, in the original shoot-out, while the Spacedeck finished behind the Hyper and 255, it was surprisingly close (talk about value performance ratios!). I will apologize for not remembering the combos in the subsequent comparison specifically (I have notes SOMEWHERE). Interestingly, or not, the Resolution was part of one of those subsequent comparisons, too, and fell short of both tables (Space and 245) in terms of detail and low end clarity. Too, it is my opinion that the OL tables are not up to the fit and finish as should be expected when putting that level of dough down for a table. I will hasten to add that it has been about 18 months since I last closely examined an OL table and things may well have improved in the interim.
In general terms, the Not tables are supported very well by the designer, Tom Fletcher, and he is very accessible, though it entails a call to England. On the other hand, the US distributor for Not is very much less than user-friendly, in my experience. The Teres line, is also supported very well by the designer and the call, if needed, is rather more local. Both tables enjoy a large following and help is available in a variety of venues. I have not had experience with OL customer service with respect to tables (though I have with arms) and have really not heard many second-hand accounts of experiences with respect to tables.
