Well guys I have the A90. It certainly is different looking. A skinny looking thing.
Chashasl - 'Threadster poses question, two very reputable dealers give sound advice, and threadster ignores advice'. Most dealers have their own pockets in mind....nuff said.
The A90 is a lot better than the XV1-S and it's a no brainer. For anyone who thinks otherwise, do youself a favour and listen to one. It is an eye opener. From cold it sounds good! Not brash or harsh like other MCs, just nice, a bit over smooth but that's a good thing for the first 20 or so hours..it means your ears don't bleed for the run-in period. 20 or so hours later and you can throw the XV1-S in the bin. Yes, the A90 is that good. It possesses a quality that sets it way apart from the XV1-S.
I hope that XV1-S users here aren't offended because I get the feeling that all you need to do here is say something 'negative' about a product and you are cast away.
Well XV1-S uers... the A90 is MUCH better, just like the VPI Classic is better than a Rega 3. It is REALLY hard to put into words how the A90 excels because out of all the MCs I've ever owned, this is the only one that sounds 'right' and plays music and does not sound hifi - if you know what I mean.
The Musicmaker question.... sounded 'thick' and muddy compared to the XV1-S. Also the Musicmaker has a 'mirky' soundstage but this is comparing it to the XV1-S. If compared to something in its $$$ range it might stand tall.
Yeh...I'm not a Classical head. I can't stand classical music which is why I think Lyra cartridges are good for classical :))
The Feickert Woodpecker I am seriously thinking about, I just need to put it up against my VPI to hear what it is like. Most tables today look like spaceships...the nice thing about the Woodpecker...it looks like a turntable IMHO.
Bring on the backlash... but to be honest I am over the moon with the A90. I have heard of a few folks buying 2 of them.... if I had the need (not the funds) I'd do the same.
