2. analog
  3. 1140727350

Ideal TT & Arm for the following top cartridges...

Koetsu RS Platinum
Van Den Hul Colibri XGW
Miyabi/47 Labs
Allaerts MC2 Finish

So the search is on. I agree with a colleague's comment that although it is convenient for AB'ing cartridges, my VPI extended Aries (ver. 1, no flywheel, no SDS) with a 12.6 bearing assembly and JMW 12.5 and two 12.6 armwands does not fully show the potential of these cartridges. Certainly I can upgrade to the Aries 3 and add the flywheel and SDS or step up to the TNT line, but considering the performance level of these cartirdges, I do not want to overlook something else.

The Allaerts is enroute so I cannot comment on it yet. But I really like the RSP and Miyabi (the RSP being more refined overall) vs. the VDH for now. It could be a loading issue (now at 250 Ohms) but the VDH, although fast, transparent, detailed and dimensional, it is also lean and uninvolving (I hear the VDH platinum option can address this).

So I would appreciate your recommendations on a TT and Arm combo in the $5k-10k range as used/demo demo pieces that are capable of showcasing the performance potential of these fine cartridges. Feel free to make a single recommendation (arm or TT only) or synergistic combination.

The rest of the system includes the Ear 88pb phono stage, a modded Electron Images MCP-1 and trying a friend's Whest PS 2.0 for kicks (a Wavestream Kinetics phonostage is coming), Bent TX103 step up as needed, First Sound Paramount Mk II pre, Dehavilland Aries 845G monoblocks (NOS tubed), highly modded Coincident Milleniums.

TIA & best regards!
ctm_cra
ctm_cra OP
86 posts
 
Nsgarch - Great points! Yes ease of VTA/SRA adjustment are desireable tonearm features and as is a TT that can accomodate multiple arms.

If I only had to choose between the Tri-Planar or the Graham, then the former would more likely get the nod. I have heard all three tonearms you recommended. In most instances, the Graham was "clinical/mechanical" and not as involving.

Can't wait to hear from Raul. Anyone have experience with the Helius or Schroeder arm (don't know of its adjustable features) with any of these cartridges?
Ag insider logo xs@2x
rauliruegas
12,893 posts
 
Dear Ctm: For the KRSP: Lustre GST 801 or Ikeda 407.

Allaerts MC 2 Finish: Ikeda 407.
Colibri: Sumiko MDC 800 or Brinkman.
Myabi 47: SME IV ( rewired )

XV-1: Lustre GST 801, SME IV and Ikeda 407.

Those ones are my experiences about.

For turntables I recomended any all metal design like: Galibier, Acoustic Signature, Micro Seiki, Avid, Verdier, etc. etc.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.
ctm_cra OP
86 posts
 
Raul - Thanks for the detailed and varied response. I know this may be a longshot, but please keep me in mind if you ever want to part with one of your GST 801s or AS tt.

I invite others to add to the above suggestions. Thanks in advance.
vincentkkho
53 posts
 
I have both RSP and 47labMiyabi. Triplanar7 so far is the best match for Miyabi. With this combination, all-out-assault to use ASR exclusive Basis phonostage with Nordost Valhalla interconnect to the preamp. It is so far the best sounding in my system.
ctm_cra OP
86 posts
 
Nsgarch - Just curious what cartridge have you found to work best with the Tri-Planar?

Vincentkkho - Thanks for responding. Please tell us what tt you are using?

Raul - Please detail if you have any experience with the Tri-Planar. If so, was it in your system and what cartridge was used? Does its performance reach the level of those you recommended above?
More to discover