ili (11/29/82)
Thanks to everyone who sent me mail regarding turntables. I will try
to summarize as best I can, the responses I received.
REGARDING BELT OR DIRECT DRIVE:
I received almost an equal number of pro-belt and pro-direct
drive responses. From the responses I got the impression that as long
as it was a turntable by a reputable manufacturer the type of drive
system didn't make a significant difference.
REGARDING TRACKING FORCE, TONE ARM, CARTRIDGE:
This seemed to be more important than the type of drive a
table had. The key factor is getting a cartridge and tone arm combo
that is compatible. Tracking force < or = to 1.5g (with ~ 0.75g as
a lower bound) was a topic on which there was much agreement from
response to response.
CONVENTIONAL OR LINEAR TRACKING:
There were many responses in favor of linear tracking tables as
opposed to conventional tables. And if a conventional table was chosen
it was suggested to get one with as straight a tone arm as possible.
ANOTHER POINT OF VIEW:
Many of the responses were in favor of the Technics turntables.
>From the responses I decided to investigate the linear tracking type.
There was one other key factor in my decision. My father has a friend
who works in one of the "high end" type of audio store. I asked him
to recommend a linear tracking table for $200 or less. He said in that
price range he would definitely go with a Technics.
THE OUTCOME (OR WHAT I FINALLY BOUGHT):
As you may have guessed by now, I chose to buy a Technics
Linear Tracking turntable. I got a good price on the table and
the cartridge. I bought the Technics SL-5 table and a Stanton
Cartridge for just under $200. If any one is interested in the details
of this table send me mail and I will be glad to help you.
Thanks to everyone who sent me mail on this matter.
Ira Idelson
Bell Labs, Holmdel