New Vinyl Playback Technology

I understand that it costs $11,000 and if anything goes wrong with it, the unit must be returned to Japan for service. I'd rather have a VPI HRX.

Rcprince, I once asked Ralph Glasgal about his Finial TT and he intimated that the tics and pops caused by dust were a real issue. In fact, he used it in conjunction with some sort of electronic device that was designed to minimize the tics and pops. But it would be nice to have instant track access for all my LPs, if it works that way...

I have a CD from this company. It compares the original
LP, scratchy and all, to the same but played on the laser
turntable. I was not impressed with it. There wasn't a drastic difference. Maybe a little cleaned up but not sounding like the original master tape! I'd like to hear
a new lp played from this gadget. I hope this player finds
a home among vinyl lovers as it does sound unique. Also, it's a first generation player. Remember your record player
from the 60's? Joe

Looks like they just came out with a new line of models beginning of this month.

Info from manufacturer here:
http://www.elpj.com/

Jnovak, It's definitely not first generation. They offer three models based on a machine that was introduced over fourteen years ago. The lowest priced model has actually been updated again since this reintroduction, making it at least third generation.

Sound quality: they make a point of saying your LPs must be absolutely, pristinely clean. The laser pickups probably read everything, unless the dust in your grooves is transparent! As to the quality of their circuit design and components, who knows?

The top two models offer some great features for 78 collectors, like variable speeds calibrated to the nearest .1 RPM. Pretty cool, and all available from the remote.

I could live without all the TT/arm/cartridge tweaking. After all, I'd still get to clean records. ;) However, $11K+ is quite a stretch for a box that's too ugly for Radio Shack. I've been ashamed of several of my TT's, but never because of their looks!