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TechDAS Reliability vs SME

Thank you for your thoughts and advice!

Wondering what the long term reliability is for more complicated turntable designs such as TechDAS with vacuum hold down vs designs without vacuum hold down.  Also somewhat concerned about who would fix a TechDAS issue if you were to have one?

Currently have a Sota turntable with vacuum system and SME IV.VI arm but I'm getting some new Wilson Audio Alexia V early next year and would like to upgrade my table as well.  I purchased a Mutech Hayabusa and Sutherland little LOCO k2 but haven't installed.  

Thinking TechDAS III or V but also interested in the new MK2 SME model 15.  

Yes I know TechDAS looks like it should be in a laboratory but I do like the idea of the amount of technology they have invested in turntable design.  Essentially I do like the look of the TechDAS, especially when the AirForce III was in white/silver color.  

Chad has increased my vinyl collection a ton in the last few years so ready to spend some money on my table. 

Thoughts or vote SME vs TechDAS! 

chauncey
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inthesticks
9 posts
 

Just read thru this thread (recently purchased an AFV premium.) I cant believe people are writing it off as a “rehashed” anything, simply because of a model the designer made 40-50 years ago.

Thats like saying he spent 50 years frozen in carbonite, and then woke-up and re-made the only turntable he knew 😂.

Forget the 50 years of innovation and technological advancements, let alone the computer revolution and its enhancement’s to speed calibration.

As I was setting mine up, watching the air lift the platter and then allowing the unit to digitally calibrate exact rpms for 33 and 45 playback speeds. And holding the solid block of machined aluminum, i couldnt help but think, this reminds me of my parents old turntable from 1978…..

 

 

 

robob's avatar
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robob
205 posts
 

Yes,  Folks should do some research before posting.

The AFIII Premium (S) is a wonderful table and I am not sure what is wrong with the looks.  It is even a bit blingy for my test with the bright copper platter.  However the copper contrasts nicely with the black piano finish on the plinth.

Massive platter, exceptional speed stability, air bearing, vacuum hold down, etc.  Real tech, not a machine shop special.  Add to the tech it is a high quality build with high quality materials.

As for customer service,  when I needed to recalibrate the 45rpm speed I spoke to the man that imports TechDas and he walked me through it on his way to an airport.  Pretty killer support!

If TechDas is out of your price range then call Donna at SOTA and see what she can do for you.

Y'all be safe,
Robert

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