Dr. Feickert Blackbird


I want to get some opinions. I am currently saving for my end-all analog source. I have been lusting after the Blackbird for a year now. I keep trying to talk myself out of it, but keep coming back. Love the classic turntable look, the reviews, and especially 2 arms. If I am only going to have one table, I want 2 arms. I still have time, as I'm not half way to my $$ goal for a the table and first arm.

Is there better or equal performer for at or under that price without losing that classic turntable look? 

128x128edgyhassle

+1 on the Kuzma Stabi R turntable.  It's built like a tank and can accommodate multiple tonearms. I had the wood plinth upgrade, which at the time could only handle one tonearm.  I have seen the later models (with wood plinth) that can handle multiple tonearms and probably would not have sold mine had it been able to do that. Thee Stabi R with the 4P (11") would be an endgame rig IMO.

@rdk777 I'm pretty certain that the Stabi R with wooden plinth can only accommodate 1 tonearm. The other Stabi R's can accommodate upto a total of 4 arms. But please verify with a Kuzma dealer.

Thank you everyone!

 

@elliottbnewcombjr I too love the Luxman and Thorens tables. I looked long and hard at those. Most of my equipment in the past has been from the 70's including Nakamichi, Klipsch, Thorens, and AR. I think I need to move into this decade, but I am still emotionally attached. If I had the duckets I would get both a new  table and that Luxman, TD 124 or Garrard 301.

@rsf507 I think you have me on your advice. I had looked at that Kuzma table, but never circled back. Since I love the vintage look, I'm thinking that with the right plinth it could look very Garrard-like. Definitely leaning that way. I even like it with the wings on both sides. If the wood plinth only allows for one, maybe there will be the ability to upgrade to a larger plinth later.

@rdk777 Agreed that would be a great end-game.

Again thanks all! You got me off the fence. I'm excited! 

Eddie

+1 for the Kuzma Stabi R.

I use a Viv Labs Rigid Float Tonearm which ha removable headshell, it is probably one of the easiest arms to set up so instead of 2 arms you have interchangeable headshells with cartridges of you choice. I auditioned the Rigid Float against a 4 Point 9" and it just got out the way and let the music flow whereas the 4 Point was a bit obvious and you could sort hear it working.

 

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Have you picked your arms yet?

 

This Acos Lustre GST-801 is my rear 9" arm, extremely rare to find it in Mint Condition

 

I learned about it here, actually someone, wish I could remember whom, found it for me, I'm so thankful.

 

Unique Magnetic Forces used for tracking and anti-skateEasiest/smoothest VTA on the fly I have seen, removable headshell. If one has removable headshell, the other, presumably your long arm, can be fixed cartridge.

I like that arm so much, I almost buy it every day.