Merrill tables

I owned a Merrill Heirloom before I moved to the dark side and began manufacturing turntables.

Other than the following possible exceptions, it is the only American turntable in current production which conveys the essence of music to this listener ... :

1. The Rockport Sirius which I have never heard.

2. The Saskia - another 'table I've yet to hear. Unfortunately, I was nailed down to my room at the Rocky Mountain Audiofest, but people who's ears I trust tell me that the Saskia falls in to this rarefied air as well.

3. My rigs and the other members of the Galibier Family Tree (http://www.galibierdesign.com/family_tree.html) ... doh! You thought this was an unbiased post? They don't exist, and we collectively vet each other in this dialog.

With these exceptions (most of them at a significantly higher cost), I consider all other American turntables to be crude appliances in comparison with the Merrill. Others will certainly differ with my opinion.

I was very excited for Anthony and George when I learned that the Merrill flame would continue to burn. I'd love to hear how Anthony has built on George's work.

Now, Anthony ... if you'd just rid the design of springs completely ;-)

Cheers,
Thom

i believe all the 'new' turntable companies survive,thrive, and will continue to offer up the essence of music that is lightyears ahead....even if we have to settle for justslightlywarm stampers.

What i dont understand is if this turntable can now be sold for $6000 why was it first offered at $9500 ??

My understanding is the new price is a kind of "factory direct" price. It's no longer being sold at a true retail level. The cost saving is a resut of no "middleman."

Perhaps VTVU can explain it better.

Dave

Other than the following possible exceptions, it is the only American turntable in current production which conveys the essence of music to this listener ... :

Does it matter where a product is made? If I would buy a new turnable I woudn't care if it was made in North Korea, Cuba, US, Europe etc. If the product and service is good I truly woudn't care where is was made.

As we all know Cuban cigars are the best.