2. analog
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SOTA table owners- getting upgraded

I have an older Star Sapphire version II which I bought new back in 1986 and subsequently upgraded with a III platter. In 1999 I put it into storage when moving to London and got it out earlier this year. I thought about getting a VPI Scout but ended up sending the table to SOTA to have the springs upgraded and while there, had the platter bearing replaced, the sub-chassis stiffened and dampened and purchased a Cosmos composite armboard. The motor, the original pabst, and the vacuum checked out fine.

I use the table with a SME V and a AT OC-9 cartridge. Man, what a difference these mods have made. Speed stability has improved as the hanging turntable no longer wobbles all over the place due no doubt to the new springs. The table's background noise is now so low that music comes out from a black and quiet background. Soundstaging and clarity have likewise seen substantial increases. If you have an older SOTA, I highly recommend these changes to your table.
barolobrain
sirspeedy70680e509
1,064 posts
 
Larry,I was kidding.I love pain,or I would not be so intrenched in this hobby!Also,who are the other 10?Kind of reminds me of when I was a kid,my friend wouldn't finish his dinner.His mom said"do you know how many people in China are starving"?He then replied---"name one"!I still remember how much that tickled me.Now "FRIGGIN TICKLR ME" with your promise,of a review/comparison w/2.2!Things like family vacations(this time of year),and other expenses should be secondary to the pushing of the audio envelope!Am I serious?Well since you have claimed to be a bit dry(but your a good guy anyway),I'll let you decipher that one.Best regards,and enjoy the HEAT(no tubes for you,in FLA,I'll bet).!Sir Speedy!

PS---It's only 94,today in Joisey!!
cello
645 posts
 
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Sirspeedy,
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I wasn't really sorry or apologizing. I was f@#king with you.
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Enjoy the heat.
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Rgds,
Larry
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jhnovick2e19
7 posts
 
Like you, I also have a Sota Sapphire MkII purchased in 1986. Recently, after having had it stored for 6 years, I set it up and have been astounded once again with what good analog sounds like.

I talked with Sota today about a couple of problems I am having. The service dept. is second to none. My only complaint is that they are no longer in Oakland, where I live!

They also recommended the upgrading of the springs to me. I am going to have it serviced locally because I dread packing and shipping the tt, but, I will have the techs check the spring system. I'm also suffering from a bit of hum coming somewhere from the tonearm/cartridge.

BTW, what kind of mat are you using?
sirspeedy70680e509
1,064 posts
 
NONE!!Take it off,and keep the platter clean,with a make-up brush.The intermat will only dull down the sound.
jhnovick2e19
7 posts
 
In my own experience, and, in talking with Sota, that is not either recommended or good sounding to my ears. Even with their old rubber mat, the bass fullness, tightness, and, overall quality improves. I think the sound is too thin with a bare platter.
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