Micro Seiki, or TW AC-1

Peterayer,
I'll definetely try to listen to TW AC-1 in more controlled environement, maybe not in my own system. The logistics are going to be too complicated. I can't say the same about MS though, I don't know anybody in my area, who has one.
Any hints? I'm in Philadelphia.
I wanted to note, that one thing, i learned from this thread is that pretty much everyone here, including proponents of MS, agree on the "ringing platter" issue with stock MS.
It also seems, that to bring MS to it's max potential would require fairly extensive modifications- new platter, support system, etc. I'm not sure about the cost and availability of those.
You are right though about trying it in my own system.
I'm exposed to a fairly wide variety of systems through our Audio group, some of them include very well regarded TTs, such as Walker Black Diamond, Basis, Monaco, etc. But I wouldn't dare to even try passing judgements on the TTs in questions in the context of the unfamiliar system.
To me, it's seems impossible to tease out a contribution of one single component under those conditions.
It also seems, that to bring MS to it's max potential would require fairly extensive modifications- new platter, support system, etc. I'm not sure about the cost and availability of those.

Maril555,

If you ever wind up somewhere near Tulsa, Ok, I can arrange both the RX-5000 and AC-1 in the same system for audition. It's a long way from Philly though. Just don't know where your travels take you.

You are correct. As dealer networks and audio shops continue to shrink, the day and age of the dealer/distributor/importer of certain lines make things exclusive to one source for purchase new or audition. Makes it difficult.

Pcosta, well said.

i've owned TW AC-1 & currently own Micro SX-5000 (air bearing version of RX-5000).

both exhibit unique characteristics in my system (i've run 3 diff arms on both). TW generally sounds more "hifi" (slightly hyped-up leading edge & timbre/tonality is less varied as others hv also highlighted), while musical notes decay rather quickly with the Micro, & some may also find it less "pitch black" vis-a-vis TW. both table's shortcomings can be addressed (to some extent) via matching &/or tweaking. based on my priorities, i prefer the Micro table (sounds more natural + the decay issue can be easily addressed).

reliability wise, i've had problems with both. my TW had an issue with the motor controller - wouldn't store/save speed settings (required a chip replacement), while my Micro had a weak air pump which caused my platter's glass bottom to occasionally contact the base (required a pump motor replacement).

hope you find this feedback helpful. good luck with yr turntable search.

Thuchan,

Nice to see your post.

From your website, I see you are using the VPI drive system on the MS table. Can you elaborate on the differences betw the VPI drive and MS drive?

Thanks

Best regards