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? 

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Two arms is highly over rated. You generally wind up using the arm cartridge combo you like the sound of most. Do your research and buy the very best you can afford instead of two of the not so best. The best cartridges play all music well.

I try to tell people that with turntables "looks" is not the issue. Performance is the issue. Enjoyment in use is nice. Some turntables work well others not so much. You should not have to tip toe around your turntable while it's playing. You should be able to tap on the plinth with the volume all the way up and not hear a thing through the system and I mean while the turntable is playing. It should have a working dust cover. It should have an effective record clamping system either vacuum or reflex. It should make no sound of it's own. If it happens to look nice that is a plus. 

 

If you like classical and jazz music, 2 arms allow you to play stereo and mono records, possibly in the same listening session. For me it’s important.

Have to agree with @mijostyn 2 arms is overrated. Pick the best table/arm combo you can afford and play some music and be happy 😊

All opinions are ok. A few years ago I thought the same as you and lived happy with one arm and cart for about 10 years with the same tt.

Now my opinion has changed and happy my tt was able to receive a second tonearm. Buying a tt with possibility to have 2 arms kept all the possibles open.
I didn’t know I would be so happy for that choice.

It’s such a joy to listen good monos that the only regret is that I didn’t tried it sooner. But that’s just me.

 

That being said you can also buy a one arm only tt and add a Viv Labs as a second tonearm if you feel you need it after some time. No need to drill the plinth and these arms seem to have something special.