Thanks for these thoughts. I definitely prefer a richer/warmer tone and the thought did cross my mind about changing tubes on the Chinook. Pardon my ignorance though, what is SUT?
Looking for Tonearm Advice/Suggestions
I am looking down the road at potentially upgrading my tonearm and cartridge (tonearm first) and would greatly appreciate any advice and suggestions this board may have. I have always received great feedback from the Audiogon community and I always learn a lot when asking these questions so thanks in advance for your help.
Here is my current setup:
- Dr. Feickert Volare turntable
- Jelco TK-850S tonearm
- Lyra Delos MC cartridge
- Manley Chinook phono stage
- Prima Luna Dialogue HP Premium integrated amp
- Dynaudio Contour S 3.4LE speakers
- Twin REL T/9i subs
- Analysis Plus Oval 9 speaker cables
- Innuos Zenith music server
- Lumin T2 streamer
- Bryston CD player
- AudioQuest Niagara 1200 Power Conditioner
I listen to variety of music but mainly classic rock, country/folk (not bro-country) and singer/songwriter. I prefer listening to vinyl although I also still play CD’s as well as stream. Overall I have put this system together trying to minimize harshness as I gravitate to a “warmer” sound. In thinking about a tonearm upgrade I am considering the Kuzma Stogi 9 or possibly the Reed 1h 9.5. Down the road I would love a Hana Unami Red cartridge but not sure I want to pay that price. The Unami Blue is also a consideration.
I’m not in a hurry but would greatly appreciate your thoughts on these tonearm options as well as cartridges. I know there are many other tonearms out there and countless combinations so feel free to lob in any thoughts you have. I am all ears and open minded.
Many thanks,
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- 35 posts total
A SUT is a Step Up Transformer that is used in general to supply the LMOC Signal to a MM Phon' or MM Input of a MC/MM Phon'. When used with the latter, think of it as a expansion of the sonic that can be produced. I own both Types of Phon's referred to above and also have Two SUT's that are very regularly used with the MC/MM Phon'. Three variances to the sonic seasoning from one device. @mulveling has put very good info on the forum about their experiences with SUT's in relation to the capability of delivering with a Rich Tone and Sonic Qualities that are preferred. Mullard E88CC's will be a wonderful experience, the early Late 50's - Early 60's will be even better, the -01 Affix is the Cream, but costly, the Vintage Valve Route demands Caveat Emptor as your friend. If acquired with a correct approach, the Phon' should be very capable of creating the Cheshire Cat Grin that will be permanent. Once the Vintage Valve is found, anxiety follows, as the want to secure a second set of Valves becomes quite controlling. |
Dear @puppyt : I can see that I'm late in your thread and you already pull the triger on the tonearm and seems to me that your first step should been to choose the new cartridge you want to own ( as the Umami Red. ) and then look for the tonearm that can match it the best inside your budget.
Anyway, maybe the Delos playing hours are to much or the cartridge/tonearm set up is not adequated yet. You need to chek with a good protractor the cartridge/tonearm alignment and after that and trhough " test and error " process makes a fine tunning with the other cartridge set up parameters as: AZ, VTA/SRA, VTF and the like In the other side the internal tonearm wiring is new and needs some time to settle down.
Regards and enjoy the MUSIC NOT DISTORTIONS, R. |
@pindac Yes, but the problem is we are all down the rabbit hole. Which cookie did you eat? |
- 35 posts total