Oracle Delphi vs. ??? fill in the blank.

The Helikon likes to be loaded down quite a bit (47k is too lean sounding). I am using 100 ohms with my ARC PH2 without loss of air and treble response. I am getting a rich (not overly warm) tonal balance in my room. However, I can vary the degree of warmth/leaness by changing the phase of my subwoofers.

The Oracle Delphi mkVs are certainly richer in tonal balance than the previous iterations. The mkV with the granite base (65 lbs versus 35 for the standard base) has more powerful and articulate bass reproduction. It also is a tad more robust in the upper bass/lower midrange.

I have the opportunity to listen to both decks with similar equipment. And the granite plinth adds to the bass reproduction.

Bottom line: The Oracles are easily among the most musical
turntables currently available, irrespective of price. The newer iterations simply offer a wee bit more refinement, speed stabilty and resolution. But the overall character remains intact (thank goodness!)

Add to GMORRIS' well heeled comments,that the Oracle pricing is still ALOT more "wallet friendly" than the vast majority of "upper tier" competition.
I get the impression that the newest state of the art contenders are actually factoring in "what can we get"(as opposed to ,merely,based on costs)prices.
I think the new Metronome table is stunning,yet they are asking around 35-45,000 dollars(based on base choices).A beautiful product,yet it could sell for alot less,IMO!
I know product design costs money,but plexiglass is not expensive,and many quality parts can be obtained for alot less than one thinks.I'm just suspicious,as to why the Gaia is SO much more money than the Basis Debut Vacuum,which seems to be similar in materials.Actually the Basis platter is NOT plexi.The Gaia uses a combination of plexi and metal in plinth material,but these guys seem to still want to go for maximum bucks.Just watch the price go up,if/when the press starts to fawn over it.

Which brings me back to the "GORGEOUS" Oracle.Pretty nice company policy,allowing REAL-WORLD hobbyists to actually have a chance to own this design.It seems the prices have gone up based on inflation,not "lets get'um" pricing!As for it's lack of attention,I believe it's been around too long(a good thing,IMO,and the design is CERTAINLY perfected),and the average hobbyist is rather fickle.Believe me,those newer designs,of high mass are subject to potential problems,as time goes on.Bearing,bushing thrust plate wear,etc!
Like a line from "My Fair Lady"..."Jes you wait"!

BTW,I own neither an Oracle,or Basis.Sorry for the rant!!

Best!

Sirspeedy70680
Very well said,nice post.
Thanks
George

Thank you all for the info.
I don't know why I ever considered anything buth the Oracle table that i originally sought after...But now, are there dramatic differences between the cronological version that may rank one on top? obviously they should have improved on their product but can a previous model with updated parts surpass the present stunner? And how good of a match is the SME tonearm with the table.

Obviously the SME is a good match.Oracle offers their own,specialized version,of that arm.As long as you can set the suspension (which is not too tough)it is fine. Take a look at the Oracle web page for info.

Best!