Upgrade from TW Acustic Raven AC-3 to what?

Another way to look at this is the following. If the
table did really have the signature you are describing, then you would tend to hear that to a large extent independent of changing some of the other tonearm/cartridge and system parameters. Well you might say that through "system synergy" you might be able to strike the right balance. In this case, if you were correct in the TW signature (which I don't think you are) you would have to get an oppositely colored piece of equipment to compensate for this. I don't think that would be wise.

The table is a lot more neutral than you think.

Based on some of Raul's points, I have been experimenting with platter mat. in fact, no mat at all. Try this and you will be surpirsed. also try lowering your VTF. My guess is you are too high.

I get very dynamic, open sound with detailed and extended bass without any overhang or sluggishness. I can easily get what you're hearing by using a mat, too high VTF and tow low SRA.

Happy experimenting.

Aoliviero, Difference between your Raven AC and Alectiong's Raven AC = 2 extra motors on his. That's why I suggest he should try driving the platter with only one motor. And you are correct, platter mat can make just the kind of subtle difference that Alectiong is looking for, but I thought the Raven AC platter was meant to be used with no mat at all, or a supplied special mat. And who could argue about the necessity to set VTA, VTF, alignment, etc carefully?

Not sure if there is a specific recommendation on mat type or need for it in the first place. I have tried the millenium mat extensively as well as the boston audio. My ears tell me no mat is better than either of these two.

I am now wondering if increasing the copper platter thickness by using one of those copper mats would be even better.

Andrew

That's another whole can of worms. But if the top surface of the platter is already copper, all that you would be doing by adding a copper mat is to increase the effective total mass of the platter. Sonic qualities should not change much. (Famous last words.)

My Raven AC-3 has remained the same although I changed the tonearm to SME V12, and the cartridge to My Sonic Lab Signature Gold.
I bought the AC-3 back when it was first introduced and was hot. My dealer told me it practically sold by itself. I gather TW is less newsy these days while many other new brands and models getting reported at shows and reviews...I am still fine with my AC-3. The quality has held up well. I am wondering though, that since TW is offering upgrades (Black Knight feet and motor and what not), whether any AC-3 owner has taken up any upgrades and can share their experience.