The next stage "LP" thread!

rlw

Now you're beginning to see the downside of a suspended table...setup can be finicky. OTOH, feedback will be really minimal, and you can get great bass when properly setup.

The level of the plinth [the acrylic foundation with the feet] doesn't matter, except as it serves to level the subchassis and platter. The arm needs to operate in a level plane. So, yes, now you have to compensate for the spring changes by adjusting the feet. Which might throw your bounce off a bit...but you'll get the feel of it after a while, and it will start to make sense and go quicker.

madmax

Thanks!
Could my springs be stretched? I notice I need them almost all the way at the top to keep off the plinth.
madmax

rlw

I've never heard of string stretch before, but I suppose that's theoretically an issue.

When you say you need them at the top, what do you mean?

Typically, I start the setup process by dialing the knurled posts clockwise until the shoulder of the topmost thread just disappears under the black sleeve when viewed at eye level.

Then, I start the fine tuning, back-and-forth. You might also want to view the posts from straight above and see if they are centered in the sub-chassis hole - or if they are off to one side. If off to one side, grab the black sleeve, and twist - see how the tension of the spring moves the sub-chassis relative to the post?

That's another variable.

In all this, take your time. If/when it seems overwhelming, back off, listen to some LP's, and have a bourbon/scotch, roll a phattie, whatever. Remember that the bottom line is about having a good time and enjoying music.

madmax

I have been enjoying the new sound every evening so far. Things are not perfect yet but they will be. I have not decided that LP's sound better than CD's yet but I must admit there are certain aspects which are better. Since starting this LP thing I have sworn off any CD playing for a little while. This way I can more reasonably detect the differences when I start comparing the two directly.

One thought is that the LP game can be very expensive compared to CD's.

I know a $50 CD player can blow away a $250 turntable. (I have both). I'm guessing a $1000 turntable setup is comparable to a $200-$400 CD player. I'll bet as you move up the ladder from there you end up with much more improvement per dollar with the turntable though.

I wonder about higher end SACD players??? Once you have enough resolution on the sampling, a good quality transport and high quality electronics in the DAC and front end I think you could end up with the good qualities found in CD's AND the other good qualities found in LP's combined???

Maybe next year!

madmax