Platter Upgrade for Garrard 301


I am toying with the idea of upgrading my analog system to the next level up from my VPI scout. I've heard alot of talk about great performance from a Garrard 301 coupled with a upgraded plinth that I could buy from various sources, such as Oswald Mill Audio or Shindo, among others. However, I rarely hear about other upgrades for the Garrard. Isn't the platter a key component that should be a contender for an upgrade? I know Shindo makes such a platter, but they seem to be ultra expensive. There must be a less expensive alternative? Also, what other upgrades should I consider to a Garrard? Thanks, Mark
mcmprov
Whisky...I like the idea of that MUCH better than a law firm. The down side is, working with me, I think Albert would drink all the profits. Hi Albert.

Since the original topic of this thread dealt with 301 platters, I will add my two cents. I have been experimenting with different 301/401 platters for a couple of years now. Let me assure you that after everything else in the Garrard is optimized, the platter can and will make a major difference. Not always for the better but the latest platter adds upper end air and detail, and not in a small quanity.
The Garrard projects are certainly about knowledge and compatibility. The matching plinth/ platter/ arm/ cartridge is a trial/error matter to say the least and finding the winning match can be very expensive, sharing experiences with each other is a valuable shortcut.
Logenn: you did not mention how your Whisky plinth / Garrard 301/ Triplanar/ Dynavector (model?) sounds compare to your Walker / Jade.
Thanks for your input.
Jean.
Mark.Your conjecture that the platter is 'important' I will
modify in 'the most important part' of an TT. My advice is
read first Pierre Lurne (Googel:Pierre Lurne;analog thoughts,e.a). It is also the most difficult part to design and manufacture. I personaly never 'mess'
with 'upgrades' (see my 'upgrades' by Linn-LP-12).
To me the TT as Garrard,Thorens 124.etc are outdated TT
and more the objects of 'nostalgia' than something else.
The 'paradox' of updates:there is no 'final one' I.e. one
is never satisfied.

Cheers

I am anxious to hear Veterone's platter for the 301 as he really is in tune with the positive energy of this iconic turntable and how supremely musical it is.

I have never compared the plinths directly, with or without whisky, that is why I didn't offer an opinion, but it sounds like it would be a fun event.

As for the Walker, it is a great turntable, but for me it was time to move on to other experiences. I am finalizing the installation of a Fidelity Research FR 66S on a Technics Sp 10 mk III and Koetsu Coralstone.
Nandric;

......are outdated TT and more the objects of 'nostalgia' than something else.

if one has as a reference a current SOTA tt (such as me with my Rockport or Albert with his Walker among a few who have gone down this road) and we listen and voice comparitive opinions regarding performance, then the age of the tt does not reduce it to merely 'nostalgia'. of course; were you to put together one of these vintage tt's and then compare it to a current top tt then maybe you might come to a different conclusion.

i was slow to warm to this direction myself and am not yet fully to the point of a conclusion. but my mind is certainly open to any result. a year ago i might have written exactly what you did.

ya gotta listen.