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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
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.
dougdeacon
3,338 posts
 
If great looks, a compact footprint and a high-mass, non-suspended design are the important criteria, you might also consider a Teres. Those are the three reasons we bought ours, although beauty is always a matter of taste of course.

http://teresaudio.com/t-320.html
hiradi
25 posts
 
Hello from Australia...
I have just completed the setup of my LaLuce with the AirTangent arm and a ZYX "nude" Cosmos 3 weeks ago...still coming to terms with the incredible sound ,cartridge still breaking in...all I can say so far...by far the best sounding turntable I have had in my system...after Kuzma Reference,Immedia RPM2 and various others,the LaLuce is very easy to set up ,small footprint...and IMO ,good looking...My system now nears completion and I will post a review soon...Horning Alkibiades,KR Audio Stereo Kronzilla,Audiomeca Mephisto and LaLuce...contact me ,if you like a picture of the LaLuce...Enjoy the music ...Helmut
nilthepill OP
842 posts
 
Thanks Dougdeacon for the link. I will sure to look the link up. I recently read the other thread mentioning Teres, Red Point and Verdier(sp?). From looks point of view Red Point certainly apeals to me. I wonder if Teres comes in material other than wood.

Hiradi, from the resume of TT's you have had, it is comforying to know La Luce is best sounding set up. Why did not you get the matching SPJ arm? How does AirTangent compare with the SPJ if you compared them. Boy I sure need to get to know the ZYX cartrdiges. I would love to get the pics of La Luce. Let me send you email off line. Could you describe the sound of your La Luce combo? Thanks.

Nil
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