Sound differences between Galibier and Teres

If you're comparing belt drive versions, I can tell you from experience that the sound of either table can be softened or made more accurate by your choice of belt materials. I've used perhaps a dozen different belts on our Teres rigs and others have done the same on their Galibiers, with results ranging from downright mushy to razor tight. (The same belts give very similar results on each, since both use very similar motors.)

Fine tuning this sonic parameter is so easy with either of these tables that I'd recommend choosing between them based on aesthetics and budget, not tonal differences.

The Teres Verus (rim drive) is a different animal. It's softer than the tightest belt drive setups and the controller includes an adjustment that lets you adjust this still further. Speed accuracy and tonal clarity do not match the very best belt drive setups, but if you truly prefer softness then those may not be big priorities for you. For your stated priority it's worth a look.

Cmk,

I don't doubt you heard the differences you described, but why attribute them specifically to the platters? Were the other components in the Galibier and Teres setups you auditioned all the same?

If you compared Thom's and Chris's systems in CO, you were comparing apples and oranges. Few valid, table-specific conclusions could be drawn from that. Dan_Ed made the trip you suggested, heard the differences you described and bought a Galibier. Then he visited us and learned that the diffuse-ness and softness he heard in Chris's setup had nothing to do with the turntables. In fact, Dan had to replace his entire system to begin to approach the performance of ours. The only component he didn't have to replace was his TT. The Gavia and the 320 are far more similar than different, as I said above.

Dan and I have traded a number of visits. We use identical tonearms, the same cartridge set up by the same guy, the same amplification, the same wire and we've been able to hear fairly similar speakers. My setup images and soundstages at least as well as his, and I think he'd agree. Until he replaced his amplification and wire, his Gavia was actually miles *behind* our 320 in every sonic parameter you could name - but that had nothing to do with the tables.

I think what you heard was due to differences in components or in the cartridge setups.

No question getting to know the makers is important, and visiting them in person would certainly help. I'll only say that Chris is taller but Thom has more hair!

Frank_sm,

We've tried multiple belts and have swapped with both Teres and Galibier owners. All reported similar results.

If you search my answers you'll see I've listed them in the past, ranked in order, but to summarize: on these tables the best performing belt material we know of is the 1/2" holographic mylar sold by McCormick's. Item # 6033665.

This material, which is slightly thicker than .002", is what Galibier uses for their belts. Teres supplies belts made from .002" clear mylar. The holographic is slightly better than the clear .002" at maintaining pace through transients. Either one is MUCH better than .001".

One minor problem with the holographic mylar is that it can shed the silver backing material over time, onto your platter and/or motor capstan. I'm working on a fix but haven't gotten 'round to trying it yet.

I don't know what Galibier's motor capstans are made of. Teres used to use delrin but newer motors have another material. I'm not sure what it is (maybe resin-impregnated glass fiber?) but the surface is a little rougher, which might make for less slippage.

No tensioner (yet) though it's an interesting idea. I assume you've seen Frank Schroeder's prototype table? He showed one at RMAF that incorporated that concept.

Cmk,

I just noticed your remark about visiting during a future visit to the US. You'd be most welcome of course! We're in Connecticut, about 2 hours from NYC or Boston. Where are you? We visit family in the UK every couple of years...

Jazdoc,

Sorry for the folicular folly. I inherited my mom's (luscious) hair but also my dad's (puny) physique. Please feel free to tag along with Cmk and beat me to a pulp, unless my 135 lb. frame scares you off.

Enjoy the Stelvio. That's a killer table.