Michell Gyro SE:anybody bought an Orbe platter?

Great question, I am contemplating the exact same upgrade, sure hope someone with direct experience replys!

I have both Orbe SE MKII(DC motor with VC Tacho motor controller) and full Gyrodec(AC motor with QC power supply) currently.

I have tinkered around two tables using same SME arm and Shelter 901 cartridegs to see if sound difference is coming from platter or from other source. I would say that sound on Orbe platter with the Orbe record clamp(threaded) results slightly darker back ground and slightly more dynamic/authority than the standard Gyrodec platter but in expense of the airy sound of the Gyrodec platter. I also have done the experiment with the just the platter, not changing the threaded bearing housing/clamp. I would say that about 50% of the sound difference between Gyrodec and Orbe is coming from threaded clamp alone.

In my opinion, due to the Orbe platter upgrade cost, I'm not sure if this is a best money spent on upgrade.

Badboss429,
I also have an Orbe SE + SME V + Shelter 901, and I agree with Nameci's findings. I had originally intended to buy the Gryo and Origin Live fully modded Rega arms to get me started in vinyl, then eventually upgrade the platter. I have listened to the Gyro extensively both at dealers, and also at several audiophile friends' places before and after purchasing my Orbe 4 years ago.

Nameci,
How do you tell whether the motor on the Orbe is a DC Motor with VC Tacho motor control or something else?

FrankC