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New TT ideas please

I'm doing a major upgrade to my system with the new electronics likely to be Audio Research REF3/110/PH7 (though may be PH5 in the interim)/Verity Parsifals. My Roksan Radius 5 is going to find a loving home, but I need some ideas of what to look at. Here are a few that appeal to me visually and reputationally, and a few that I've heard (all similar $$ roughly, budget seems to be about $6-$7.5k for table and arm):

1. Clearaudio Ambient (looks simple to setup and use), unify arm
2. Rega P9 with the 1000 arm (again, simple setup)
3. Michell Gyrodec or Orb (with the acrylic platform and cover)
4. Transrotor Atlantis with Origin Live tonearm
5. Redpoint turntable (a long shot) - looking for opinions

Excluding VPI, what else should I consider? I would like a company with a long standing history (Redpoint is questionable on this front), excellent build quality, not too finicky, sounds lively, involving, quiet background, controlled and detailed. I don't mind a touch forward, as I think the rest of the system could use a slightly forward source. Simplicity is preferred - I don't want to have to adjust things too often or it won't be used.

I have a fascination with Koetsu cartridges, so I want a TT that would suit an Urushi / Rosewood Signature cartridge. I also think transrotor is interesting, but their web site confuses me (only 3 models? I thought they had many more).

I will try my very best to hear them so what I'm asking is your best ideas and a little brain storming. I will only buy what sounds best to me and works with my system - no question about that.
hatari
oregon
822 posts
 
Hatari,
Have you considered a Lenco? I have owned 4 and they float my boat in every department you mention. I love Masakela, Zimbabwe, Mali, Streets of Soweto, Buena Vista, Los Lobos, Brazilian, Rock, Bluegrass, jazz, Django. some Classical.
You can have one custom built and laquered, any arm from linear tracking air bearing to Rega, RS 1 to JMWs. Dynavector, Denons and Koetsus. The sky's the limit.
Only issue might be size, the recipe is to build these big with massive plinths (20" X 20") at 70 lbs. But, they look and sound fabulous, not much tweaking once properly set.
Email me and I will send you some photos.
Good luck and have fun.
westside_music
14 posts
 
I am clearly biased, being a dealer, though I am just an audiophile like you who decided to morph into a business. I started a similar search last year for a new line to carry. We do carry verdier and it is great, classic design and awesome sound but industrial looks to some (particularly my wife). I chose dps from germany - very easy to operate and set up, small footprint, upgrade path and great sound (in my biased opinion). Price is in your range and it comes with its own phono cables directly wired. We are in Calgary, not sure where you are based but you are welcome to drop by or drop me a note. Here is a link to some pictures and info.
http://www.soundscapehifi.com/dps.htm
Good luck.

Gary
audiofeil
4,011 posts
 
I know Pauly quite well and even an Oracle Delphi couldn't get him la**

:-)
dan_ed
2,451 posts
 
Hatari,

A musician friend of mine introduced me to some of the African jazz music. Abdullah Ibrahim, Dudu Pukwana, Louis Moholo, Chris Mcgregor, Wintson Mankunku, Sipho Mabuse. Really enjoyable music. I think much of it would be hard to find here in the states.

Good luck with your table search.
hatari OP
94 posts
 
Dan_ed: Addullah Ibrahim used to be known as "Luck Brand" in the early days I believe, and I have but one CD of his (bought in Cape Town some years ago). I don't have anything from the other names, so I'm adding them to my shopping list.

Westside_music: I will take a look at the brand you recommend. I'm in Toronto.

Thanks
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