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SOTA table owners- getting upgraded

I have an older Star Sapphire version II which I bought new back in 1986 and subsequently upgraded with a III platter. In 1999 I put it into storage when moving to London and got it out earlier this year. I thought about getting a VPI Scout but ended up sending the table to SOTA to have the springs upgraded and while there, had the platter bearing replaced, the sub-chassis stiffened and dampened and purchased a Cosmos composite armboard. The motor, the original pabst, and the vacuum checked out fine.

I use the table with a SME V and a AT OC-9 cartridge. Man, what a difference these mods have made. Speed stability has improved as the hanging turntable no longer wobbles all over the place due no doubt to the new springs. The table's background noise is now so low that music comes out from a black and quiet background. Soundstaging and clarity have likewise seen substantial increases. If you have an older SOTA, I highly recommend these changes to your table.
barolobrain
sirspeedy70680e509
1,064 posts
 
SO,LARRY---When am I going to get the Schroeder review,that you promised me?No excuses!!!

Also---IMO,regarding the SOTAS(COSMOS in particular),there really is no way to make the comment that one designer's product line is better than another.Unless there is an A/B comparison.It really isn't fair to make claims to the contrary.

There are some fabulous designs out,now!The only ones I am a bit suspicious of(which means nothing,BTW,as I'm just a hobbyist)are the very pricey products,that some reviewers latch on to,and help to drive their sales(as well as to rationalize pricing).Many of these designs are wonderful,but some are short lived(remember Forsell)and compared to a good number of more responsibly priced products,like the new COSMOS III,Teres and some of the VPI's I've heard,don't really set any "Real" new standards.Their owners do get the benefit of the "Rolex watch syndrome",but that's ok with me!!
cello
645 posts
 
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Sirspeedy,
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I was going to write a review for the Schroder last night, but I thought it might be better to wait until I actually have it before offering any strong opinions.
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As soon as I get the Schroder in my system, you will be the 11th to know. That's assuming your email ever works and email can reach you.
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Rgds,
Larry
sirspeedy70680e509
1,064 posts
 
Larry,Ouch!That hurt!
cello
645 posts
 
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Sirspeedy,
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I am sorry. Was that a bit harsh (certainly not my intention).
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Rgds,
Larry
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sirspeedy70680e509
1,064 posts
 
Larry,I was kidding.I love pain,or I would not be so intrenched in this hobby!Also,who are the other 10?Kind of reminds me of when I was a kid,my friend wouldn't finish his dinner.His mom said"do you know how many people in China are starving"?He then replied---"name one"!I still remember how much that tickled me.Now "FRIGGIN TICKLR ME" with your promise,of a review/comparison w/2.2!Things like family vacations(this time of year),and other expenses should be secondary to the pushing of the audio envelope!Am I serious?Well since you have claimed to be a bit dry(but your a good guy anyway),I'll let you decipher that one.Best regards,and enjoy the HEAT(no tubes for you,in FLA,I'll bet).!Sir Speedy!

PS---It's only 94,today in Joisey!!
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