I have been a big SOTA fan since the launch of the Sapphire in the early 80’s. We were one of the initial dealers. A typical SOTA left the shop with a Sumiko or Souther arm and a Dynavector Ruby. My brother still runs the 1983 table w minimal adjustment and tuneups, it has a MMT with Ortofon Black MC… lovely still…
I bought several years ago a Sapphire at auction from a widow. TT had at some point been dropped so it was shipped direct to Donna at SOTA for repairs and upgrades of which many ( mentioned above ) were possible. Replaced springs, bearing, upgraded motor ( should have bought Eclipse then, will do that soon ). Platter mat, new belt. I had the arm Sumiko FT-3 rebuilt and rewired w top Cardas by another vendor. I currently use a Hana ML until I sort out the upgrade path. Sonics are dark black background, excellent drive, speed stability/pitch good, the HANA is a polite MC. I have a Brinkmann Bardo on HRS base w Triplaner and a Lyra, so no stranger to good sound. The SOTA represents superb vale, sonics and great service.
enjoy the music
Jim
I bought several years ago a Sapphire at auction from a widow. TT had at some point been dropped so it was shipped direct to Donna at SOTA for repairs and upgrades of which many ( mentioned above ) were possible. Replaced springs, bearing, upgraded motor ( should have bought Eclipse then, will do that soon ). Platter mat, new belt. I had the arm Sumiko FT-3 rebuilt and rewired w top Cardas by another vendor. I currently use a Hana ML until I sort out the upgrade path. Sonics are dark black background, excellent drive, speed stability/pitch good, the HANA is a polite MC. I have a Brinkmann Bardo on HRS base w Triplaner and a Lyra, so no stranger to good sound. The SOTA represents superb vale, sonics and great service.
enjoy the music
Jim