@audio2design
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on the subject.
I'm the first owner of the ML39, vintage 1996, which I had upgraded to a ML390S in ~ 2002.
As for the ML36, I'm the 2nd owner for all I can tell.
And yes, both are some 25 years old - with one laser unit replacement for the ML390S, about 1 year ago.
During mid to end 2000 I had A LOT of Systems auditioning going on (semi-professionally), and this across the board of high-end digital systems, culminating in some way-out Bösendorfer-Lyngdorf system. Actually too many to mention.
All this did for me, was to set-up an analogue side system to my existing digital one, and repurches LPs I'd gotten rid of during end 1980.
I mention all this for some perspective, as even listening to far more expensive and more sophisticated set-ups, I could not be convinced (by LISTENING) that this so considered 'new'(er) technology sounded any BETTER - different ok, but not better.
The more resent listening to some full blown latest B&W802D3 diamond tweeter speakers and Esoteric gear failed to make any further 'upgrade' desire as well.
All I keep hearing is more 'resolution' and less of any 'realness' - more artifice, for lack of a better word.
That's when I came across that 'ancient' ML36 (R2R) so since it integrates easily into my existing system I decided to give it a go.
It sounds the least artificial, though a good LP sounds 'easier' on my ears - still.
A question of more real harmonics/timber I'd say.
In closing, by my personal experience, I'm this far unconvinced, that high-end digital has made the kind of progress that is generally banded about.
Been surching for close on 25 years and good analogue *still* has the edge for me.
Enough said for now,
M. 🇿🇦
