Teres Versus with Galibier/Redpoint?


I'm planning to add another turntable to my system(currently have VPI SSM rim drive/10.5i). Along with the Raven AC, I'm most intrigued by the Galibier Stelvio and Redpoint Model D. Any of these tables would allow the flexibility of Differing/multiple arms and a contrast to the sound of the VPI. One potential advantage to the Galibier and Redpoint might be the ability to position the Teres Versus next to the platter as an alternate drive method. In this way, one might be able to use direct drive and tape drive interchangably. Does anyone have experience trying this or is the tape drive good enough that this would make little difference?
sonofjim
Doug; may I ask what is a properly implemented tape drive? My rig consists of a Galibier Quattro SE with a Serac platter, TriPlaner, Zyx universe. I do run through a mylar tape every 90 days or so.
Thanks in advance
Vernon
Doug is talking about the acid etching process on the Mylar tape.

I've yet to put this technique into production, but it is absolutely worthwhile.

Here's the scoop from the ever resourceful Doug and Paul http://forum.audiogon.com/cgi-bin/fr.pl?eanlg&1215361521&read&3&4&.

Cheers,
Thom @ Galibier
Santanaali,

I assume you're going through belts quickly because the metallic backing is wearing thin. Read the thread Thom linked to for a notable improvement in both belt life and sonic performance.

Note: the ever thoughtful Mosin suggested kapton as another potential belt material which might (or might not) provide a further improvement. Haven't had time to try that yet.

Rickmak,

A Galibier, Redpoint or Teres capstan might be adaptable to your Raven motor. Might have to drill out the hole for the motor shaft. Otherwise they're perfect for a 1/2" tape, assuming the capstan diameter is compatible with the speed range of your motor controller.

Sonofjim,

Agree with you and Stiltskin that the experiment is worth hearing for yourself. The majority of Verus testers on Teres BD tables have found it to be an upgrade. You might too.

OTOH, if we had a two table budget we might sell both and buy one of Mosin's Saskia tables. Haven't heard it in our system to confirm all aspects of its performance, but it's certainly the most speed-stable table through transients we've heard. It outplayed every table at RMAF in that respect, regardless of drive system.

So many tables...
Personally, I love Mosin's table, though I haven't heard it. It's beautiful and looks like it would be reliable for a lifetime. You may recall my past complaint about it's cost. I'm over that now and appoligize to any I may have offended with my remarks. The main down side(appart from cost) is that it only handles one arm at a time and I believe it doesn't handle 12" arms(am I right about that?). I'm guessing Albert Porter will end up with one. It just may not be flexible enough for me to justify the price.
For now, I'll check out the Raven AC at Highwater in May and hopefully the Stelvio at Galibier in June. Where is Oswald's Mill Audio anyway, just in case.
Doug, I've used Kapton for several years on my tape driven turntable. I've tried several different lengths and thicknesses. It is too smooth so it doesn't grip as well as stock Mylar. I don't know where you could obtain this material since I don't believe the company I worked with would sell to the public. I run a machine shop so it's pretty much standard business practice. It's also extremely expensive.