bpoletti

Responses from bpoletti

I need help and phonostage suggestions
Have you considered a used Herron VTSP-1a? IMO, as good as it gets in your budget. 
DL103 Nude-ing Instruction?
This youtube video goes into sufficient detail to replace the stock body with a wooden one. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ENq8PoXhaU Note that once the body is removed, it appears necessary to mount the 103 into some kind of body or plate since ... 
New VPI Classic I vs. good used VPI HW-19 MkIV.
I agree with the frogmeister. The tables are pretty close, relatively speaking, but the Graham arm is a big step up from the VPI. 
Good cartridge for the VPI Classic 1 turntable.
The AT OC9/IIML is an excellent performer on the Classic 1. 
Setting tonearm angle?
If you consider what is happening at the contact point of the cartridge in the groove, the best way to set VTA would be when you hear the most extended treble. The the stylus contact area is set to be the same as the cutting head, there will be no... 
Upgrading from Rega P5 TT
Not personally, but I trust the opinions of some of those who have. 
Upgrading from Rega P5 TT
VPI Traveler - $1400, VPI Scout - $1800, VPI Scout 2 - $2200. All better the P7. 
Upgrading from Rega P5 TT
If you don't want to fuss with a table, why not a VPI Classic 2? Just set the VTF and VTA and that's it. The benefits of an extra set-up step or two can be a significant step up in performance. 
VPI owners.......
I'm not really sure that's necessary if you just align the dot on the bottom of the platter with the dot on the bearing. 
Sota Sapphire?
OR....Send the OC9 to Audio Technica and get a new OC9ML/II for $270 + $10 shipping. 
Want to start my analog journey
You might start by looking for used phono stages that will handle low output moving coil carts. Look around the $800 price point. For a table and cart it's hard to go wrong with a VPI Traveler and an AT-OC9ML/II. That combo is about $1700. 
SACD vs Analog
That throws an entirely different light on component considerations. IMO, it would be good to consider a VPI Classic 2 with an AT-OC9ML/II cart. That will come in right at $4K and provide really excellent quality music vinyl reproduction. (It's NO... 
SACD vs Analog
IMO, you can probably equal or exceed the quality of your digital set-up using a VPI Traveler, an Audio Technica OC9ML/II and any number of decent phono stages. 
Soundsmith cartridge, opinions appreciated
BTW, just a reminder that if you add mass to the arm remember to reset tracking force. 
Soundsmith cartridge, opinions appreciated
There are lead spacers that are available as well as heavier mountings screws. Sound Smith sells the mounting screw sets made from different materials that allow for the adjustment of mass. Mass, as seen at the cantilever, can be placed anywhere o...