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Help me choose TT of these three candidates.

I have narrowed the list down to these 3.
1. La Luce with SpJ tone arm and Lyra Helikin or Titan Cartridge
2. Transrotor Orfeo with Tripalnar tone arm and Sheltor 901
3. Clearaudio Max Solution with Master TQ1 arm and Strvidari cartridge

I have auditioned all of the above three in addition to VPI TNT (too warm), SME 18/2(?)(too slow for my taste),Transrotor Leonardo(did not so much for me), Clearaudio Master solution (liked the sound but chose to go one step up). Of the three 1 and 2 falls in to the category of sound that I prefer: Neutral, dynamic and lush and excellent freq extension at both low and high end. Besides both of them looks gorgeous! There are other TTs that I might be interested in but it is difficult to find dealer that has the set up. Only other alternative is read as many reviews and get opinion of Audiogone members. Since each combo costs $10-$15 K, I would really like you opinion and or your experience on these three choices and any other recommendations you might have.

Thanks.
nilthepill
tobias
1,534 posts
 
It's a matter of personal taste, I suppose, but I don't see how the La Luce has any competition at all in the looks department. A perfect 11.
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
I haven't heard any of those tables, unfortunately, but I do own a TriPlanar VII and still have a Shelter 901 lying around somewhere. If you end up with a TriPlanar I'd try to get a better cartridge. The 901 won't give you anywhere near the performance this arm is capable of. I've had the three top ZYX's in my system and they all beat my 901, two of them for not alot more money. A Titan should easily better a 901, and other cartridges probably would too.
cincy_bob
270 posts
 
Nilthepill, I am curious about your reaction to the VPI TNT. You mention that you have found it to be too warm for your personal taste. My experience is that the early versions of the VPI TNT from the Mk. 1 version through the Mk. 5 version of the design were definitely all voiced on the warm side of the spectrum.

However, I have found that the Mk. 6 version of the TNT is, in contrast, exceptionally neutral. Have you heard the Mk. 6 version of the turntable with the acrylic platter, and the periphery ring and center weights? I am personally very pleased with the VPI TNT Mk. 6, the SME IV tonearm and the Dynavector XV-1s cartridge. This is an excellent rig that would fit nicely within your $10k-$15k price range.
nilthepill OP
842 posts
 
I agree with you 111% Tobias on La Luce's looks. Although the Transrotor Orfeo could be close second (9)and Clear audio could be third(8).

Dougdeacon, I am not familiar with ZYX(?)cartridges, but you are correct. The triplanar could use better cartridge than 901- may be 90x or as you say Titan.

Cincy_bob, The TNT I audioned must be V or earlier because I don't remember it having acrylic platter. The ring and clamp were definitely there. When I say It sounded warm, I am talking in comparision with 1 and 2 combos. The big negative for TNT for me is, its foot print. It is just huge.

All of the three above can be fit in 18 X 18 square size. They are all non suspended, heavy acryllic platter design, 3 point support design.
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