Here’s an interesting thin, coated, aluminum mat I’m using on my TW Acustic Anniversary, the SPEC Analog Disc Sheet AP-UDI, and a related TT mat comparo at Part-time audiophile: https://parttimeaudiophile.com/2017/02/15/five-turntable-mats-an-audiophile-shootout/ |
@jollytinker, I looked for a local source of plastic from which to make tone arm mounting boards, and found one in Portland---Multi-Craft Plastics (800/488-9030). I priced acrylic, acetal (Delrin), and polycarbonate. MCP sells them all by the square foot, in various thicknesses. I went into their office to look at samples and ask for their advice and recommendations. I don't now remember why, but I ruled out polycarbonate. The price of a square foot of 1/2" acrylic is around $25, Delrin $35. Not bad at all! Acrylic is very glossy (exactly like the plinth of the VPI HW-19 Mk. 3-4, and the Aries' arm board), Delrin having more of a matt sheen. MCP sells the plastic, and will cut it to size (I'm waiting to hear back from them for an estimate). I left my old arm boards with them (the boards have arm mounting holes which do not match my arms), and am having pieces of acrylic cut in both 1/2" and 3/4" thicknesses. I'm sure they will cut a square foot of Delrin into a 12" diameter circle, and maybe even with a recessed LP label are in the center (they have a laser machine). Depending on what they charge for machining, it may be possible to get a 12" Delrin platter mat for well under a hundred bucks. |
@analogluvr , good point. I use rather "lively" cartridges (London), and I’m thinking the Classic/London combo may sound a tad brash. London’s create a lot of mechanical energy, and a platter surface that is very hard (aluminum) may reflect it back rather than damp it a little. That’s the theory, anyway! The folks at the plastics place told me Delrin is harder than acrylic, for what it's worth. Also denser and heavier. |
