The best TT system for under 30K
As I mentioned upthread, I had a Kuzma Reference and upgraded to the XL some time ago. The XL is a better table and its "sound" is better because there is less of it (you aren't hearing as many artifacts of vinyl playback). The bass is also extremely good, goes very deep, and that with an air bearing arm which is not an arm design known for pronounced bass. I'm not saying the Kuzma is better than any other table but you asked about a house sound. The point, to me, is to be utterly absent as part of the presentation. And you don't appreciate that until you don't hear it. Short of the XL, the M would probably be a good table, lower in price, but I have no hands on experience with it. Kuzma does support his product well. I've talked to Franc many times, as well as his importer/distributor here in the States, Scot Markwell. I don't know your territory and players so I can't speak to what can be had there which competes, offers a better value and is similar to what you heard. I also use a vintage SP-10 with a Kuzma 4 Pt. 9" in my vintage system and it is more table than the system requires in some ways. Ultimately, the table/arm/cartridge and phono stage make up the front end and variables including the wire could affect the sound. I'm currently using stone bodied Koetsus on my main table- the XL and they work fantastically with the Airline. There are of course other cartridges and arms that you may prefer. You are in control of this- based on due diligence, such as you are doing here. Getting a chance to listen to a particular set up in a dealer's room is better than nothing, but it still isn't the same as your system/room. Set up is part of it too and can make a significant difference in performance. Have fun with this. |
As an owner of the Kuzma XL DC, I concur with uwiikz’s listening experience as described in the thread opener. What lower priced alternative than Kuzma XL DC that would give me the almost exact same sonic characteristics? Certainly not the Technics Sp10R & Mk.3 direct drives, as they are different beasts entirely. Not better or worse per se, simply different in terms of playback, presentation and overall character. In my system, I’ve elected to employ various turntable drive types, all which provide immeasurable levels of musical satisfaction each through the lens of their own unique persona. None are identical and yet all are immensely capable, reference caliber analog playback devices. If I were to recommend one alternative turntable which has some similar characteristically musical virtues, it would be the Garrard 301 Statement which I believe with optional ac power supply would cost about $8000 less than the Kuzma and accepts nine to twelve length inch tonearms. Being a properly implemented idler drive, it has a certain propulsive and dynamic nature coupled to a powerful, extended bass signature with loads of air, space and deep layering abilities. Inner detail is superb as well. Again, to clarify, it is still different from both of my belt drives and direct drive turntables, some attributes of each an individual may find more or less desirable than others, subjectively speaking but if you are seeking something with quote "beat", "speed" and "clarity", then this would be the closest thing in my system resembling this kind of demeanor, comparatively speaking. Personally, I think the Kuzma XL DC is one of the great bargains of high end modern belt drives and far, far from being overpriced. Their other record players, aside from the Stabi M, although to a much lesser degree, do not sound like the XL DC as they are lacking the impact, scale, focus, layering and life of this model. After auditioning the Stabi R last year, it was immediately apparent to my ears that it was a significant step down the in the manufacturers hierarchy. Somewhat odd my impressions felt, as we did not seem to have the same sense of urgency present as its closest sibling the Stabi M although they share the same motor. Perhaps the difference lies within the power supply. The XL DC remains the superior Kuzma, at least to my ears. Their latest offering the XL DC Air, I personally have not yet seen or heard yet, so I cannot comment. please somebody tell me XL DC is the best ever and there is no other that can compare so I can just jump the cliff and took the plunge? A polite reality check, this is high end audio, and "best ever" does not exist. Not a single audiophile has seen, tried, compared or heard it all. Try to enjoy yourself during the journey and along the way find what is best for your personal listening tastes, budget and playback goals. Conjecture is something we all must contend with at some point in this game but fortunately you have some helpful, constructive insights here from various members to study and digest prior to making your final decision. |
