DPS/Schroeder Ref. Turntable

I recently purchased the DPS/SchroederDPS combo. The cartridge is the Allaerts MC-1B. The turntable is relatively small compared to other reference tables, however, the sound is big and very dynamic. I have not compared it with the Platine Verdier.

underrated table and overrated arm...but if you buy used, its worth it.

The DPS is an interesting table but falls short of the performance of designs from Galibier, Teres and TW Acustik.

When I auditioned the DPS/Schroeder Ref/Airy3 the detail and imaging were good, however timing and dynamics fell short of the others mentioned above.

The Schroeder Reference is virtually unobtainable new (ask anyone who has ordered one how long they have been waiting). The Schroeder is at its best reproducing small ensembles of acoustic instruments but is bettered on rock/pop (where bass guitar and drums feature) by the Tri-planar and Dynavector DV507 (although the latter isn't the best at imaging I prefer it to the Schroeder for rock music).

The Verdier is widely respected although I get the impression that many owners upgrade the motor/speed control units in pursuit of better attack and speed stability. There are better options available for your money IMO.

Flyingred,
Thank you very much for your advice. I must say that I have the opportunity to buy this TT/TA combo for about the half of the retail price (~ $8500) and I don't really think any other option. By the way, what are the better options you're thinking of?
Best regards,
Pentatonia.

Before you pull the trigger, check out service, support and warranty for the DPS - their motor controller is proprietary and complex. I chose the Galibier, not just because it sounds better, but because the motor controller is a simple circuit using very common components. The only part with a failure risk is a regulator costing $2 that will be available indefinitely. The rest of the table is built like a tank and will last for ever.

A Tri-planar is all the tonearm that anyone would ever need ($4k) so with $4500 left to spend you could have yourself a new Galibier Gavia with Serac platter. I know the Schroeder new retails at $5500, but that just makes the Tri-planar even better value in my view.

The great thing about the Galibier design is the mylar belt which delivers rock solid speed stability (compared to the DPS's rubber). The DPS has an AC motor (vs DC) so will be prone to cogging and it needs that stretchy belt to counter this - the result is you don't get the dynamics and absolute pitch stability of the Galibier. Also compare the bearings between the two tables.

And you would have the pleasure of owning a new piece that was built especially for you.