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Turntable for life

I know the question has been asked before but it’s worth asking again. Many change equipment frequently, but have you found your turntable for life?  One that you’ve had for years and still pleases you so much you are going to keep it forever? Price is irrelevant--it can be 300 Dollars or 30.000 Dollars 
fabsound
dgarretson
2,602 posts
 

@213cobra 

I'm with you on the Luxman PD444-- mine with brass footers, Stillpoints, and a custom subplinth for mounting a third arm. This one gives the most enjoyment of my four(L07D, SP10 MkII, & modified VPI TNT).  Have you found an aftermarket mat for the PD444 that surpasses the stock rubber mat? 

pryso
1,945 posts
 
dchang1981,

I owned an original (square motor) WTTT many years ago.  I was a good basic table but I added a few modifications.  The original platter was replaced with their later (black) version, and I added damping to the arm stand and silicone cup.

But I had two issues.  One, after setting the VTF I could move the arm to its rest, then measure again and find a different reading.  So I was never sure what tracking force I had.  Second, motor torque was not as good as some other tables.  That was particularly noticeable on piano recordings.

I replaced the WT with a Kuzma Stabi/Stogi Reference which provided greater satisfaction.

terry9
2,354 posts
 
Inna, I have not heard the Anna Log, but I took inspiration from Tom's idea of a non-standard plinth, which improved the Mentor no end.

inna
7,341 posts
 
Terry9, what I like about Spacedeck, among other things, is that it sounds quite big for a relatively small table. Anna Log is what one day I might want to upgrade to, if I have a chance to listen to it ! And as always, funds permitting.
213cobra
885 posts
 
@dgarretson 

I did try a variety of alternative mats for the Luxman PD44X turntables over the years, but always constrained by the need to stay very close to the weight of the original mat, for the magnetic repulsion load reduced spindle to function properly. If you use a too-light mat, like cork or foam, the bearing will not be properly loaded. If you use something heavier, like machined copper, it will be excessively loaded.

I always returned to the stock mat, and eventually added a very thin leather mat on top of it, and use the lightweight Michell Delrin clamp.

Phil
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