Time for a "massive" turntable: Spacedeck vs Scheu


I have been considering upgrading my analog setup for a while (Michell Tecnodec and Thorens TD150 MKII). I will keep the Thorens as a nice example of a classic suspended deck. After many "light" turntables, I now would love to give mass-loaded table a try:

- Nottingham Spacedeck with Ace-Space arm

- Scheu Premier MKII with Moerch UP4 tonearm

I have listened to the Spacedeck a couple of times and love its solid sonic foundation, black backgrounds, solid bass, and warm but extremely detailed and tuneful sound. I have not had a chance to listen to the Scheu but would love to hear some comments and about direct comparisons with the Nottingham.

List of previous analog setups

Remaining system:
Denon DL103R (as the initial cartridge)
Wright WPP200C phono (planned)
Fi Y, Super X, First Watt F1
Cain & Cain Abby

Any comments, experiences, recommendations?

Rene
restock

Showing 2 responses by analog11

Teres would be my choice. I picked up a 255 here from Chris Brady. I put an OL Encounter on it and with the Teres VTA adjuster it's the best I have had in 30 years of owning tables. I have listened to the Spacedeck at a dealer several times and this bests it in clarity and weight by far. You can even put a Rega on it with the VTA adjuster...
Just to set the record straight...the Teres table is about as "tweaky" as a Rega P2. Probably even less with the VTA adjuster. Heck, you don't even have to use the power switch on the motor if you don't want to, just spin the platter to start and slow it by hand to stop. And if you want to play a 45 just hold down the power switch for 2 seconds and you have 45rpm. Oh yeah, no need for a strobe to check speed, it has one built in! And, and, and, the 1/2" recording tape belt might last 25 years.

Personal preferences aside, there are no good technical reasons to dismiss a table like the Teres. Especially if your personal preference leans towards unipivots....which, by the way, Teres recommends highly in many forms (Moerch, Graham, Schroeder).

The most valuable discussions are based on facts.