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Turntable Decision

So, I want to try a spring isolated turntable. Considering a SOTA Sapphire, Michell Gyro SE or Orbe, or used Linn Sondek LP12 (90's edition). Will be in one of two systems: Herron phono pre-Conrad Johnson pre- Pass amp - B&W speakers; or Parasound Halo JC3+ phono pre, Raven Osprey integrated, Harbeth speakers.

Thoughts based on real life experience?

Thanks.

    -GAR
gareents

Showing 3 responses by sbank

sbank's avatar
sbank
3,378 posts
 
@gareents , 
Another Sota endorsement here. I have a Nova VI, like in the linked review above. It's great, and Donna and team provided a great experience. Jelco's are nice arms, but I share the same concerns with them having shutdown. The 850 was one of those I closely considered, but instead bought an Audiomods Series V with micrometer tower and silver wiring(one strand from cartridge to RCA jacks. The mount using Rega geometry, as they are radically modified from the original Rega designs, in that respect like Origin Live. But Audiomods has great service and support and continue to evolve their products. Donna had no problem providing an armboard for my Audiomods arm. You can see pics of both on my system page. Cheers,
Spencer
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,378 posts
 
@dennis041992, please start a new separate thread with your question instead of highjacking OP's question. No disrespect intended. All the replies will be pointed towards helping you. Cheers,
Spencer
sbank's avatar
sbank
3,378 posts
 
@gareents, Agree that the Schick arms aren't the best match. I've read many comments implying that the longer versions are much preferred and you'll want a shorter arm with the Sota. The Schicks also tend to be paired with heavier vintage cartridges like the SPU series, or the Denon 103s of any vintage. 
When I discussed arms with Donna at Sota(~12/2019-1/2020 SME and Jelco were the safe/popular matches. But she was comfortable with many others & had made armboards for most.  

I've only heard Graham arms on Basis tables, so no opinion on that. 

Beyond my Audiomods V, the arms I'd consider upgrading to would be the Kuzma 4Point 9" or a Schroeder. 

@mijostyn, no I don't hear any tone warble with my vacuum hold-down, which works great with no fussing required, unlike many fiddly more expensive alternatives. But I can't recall any tone warble when I had SP10MkII w/EPA-250 arm either. I'm not suggesting anyone experiment with dimes to hear something we all want to avoid ;-) I'll take your word for it regarding the theory.
In my head, the vacuum and Reflex clamp combine to contribute to the solid ease, relaxed nature and black background from LP to LP. Hope that helps. Cheers,
Spencer
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