New Townshend Rock 7 owner

I’m having some great listening lately. I’d like to explain why?

I have the Merlin power supply.

I’ve thought for a long time about putting in my VPI ADS ahead of the Merlin for a while. Why? I’m not sure, but I’ve not been happy with the speed stability.

I’ve been enjoying some Sade tonight...
Diamond Life...OP
Lovers Rock... MOV
Promise ... OP/gold stamped promo

Since inserting the ADS, I’ve noticed a more airy presentation. Seems like the notes are hanging onto the electronics even less now. After an hour of "on time", ( the ADS was a brand new unit) the bass seems slightly less bloated. (Not that it was bloated before)

The sonic differences in these three lps are still there but the things I disliked the most about all three have been minimalized. There is an overall smoothness that makes me want to use the word (analog). A warmth that just draws me in.

I had wondered if these components are compatible. They are running very cool, if that is any indication?

Thoughts?

Above...The better way of describing what I’m hearing in the lower bass is more precise/musical than before. Much better at presenting the delicacies of minute bass notes. Probably a lower noise floor contributes.

@slaw i have the Rock 7 with the standard motor (round belt) do you  know if the updated Merlin motors still available .

would the VPI ADS work with stock motor?

This was my first experience with this. My understanding is the ADS will work with any AC synchronous motor. The Merlin power supply takes the AC and turns it to DC then back to AC. I believe this is how it works. So my feeling is my motor is an AC motor, with a different pulley. You could call Max and ask him in person?

Does anyone know if a Funk Firm platter Matt will work on n a Rock 7?

The Rock 7 does not your typical platter spindle length and that was my concern 

Thanks