I just happened to come upon this thread. Pretty funny IMO! So many misconceptions about me, and about the Thales review.
It turned out the bearings in the review sample had issues. In fact Mr. Huber changed the bearing technology used in the arm after the review because I wasn’t the only one to have had the sticky bearing problem.
He also improved the set up jig. I did not "botch" the review. And I do keep a clean stylus. Also, the comment about my feelings towards suspended ’tables is ridiculous.
I haven’t reviewed any Basis turntables other than the big Debut, because AJ Conti has chosen not to send any for review.
My review of the Thales was honest, not ’brutal’. The problem is few reviewers actually review. Mostly they do publicity. Not what I do.
P.S.: I reviewed an improved version and it was far superior. I did my job.