yj05@gec-mrc.co.uk (yj05) (08/14/90)
klong@WILKINS.bcm.tmc.edu (Kevin Long) asks some questions: > Q: Is there any reason not to purchase a used Sondek versus a new one? I use an old model Linn LP12. I would guess about 1978. If you phone the factory I think they can tell you the date from the serial number. When purchased it had no upgrades. Now it has them. I was told once that a new deck may sound better than an old upgraded one but precisely how this was not substantiated or elaborated. Couldn't your dealer demo side-by-side if you're worried? Personally, I'd get the used one provided it had been fully reconditioned. Russ Andrews TT Accessories (UK) do a set-up booklet if you like to have a dabble yourself. The Nirvana upgrade was basically mechanical whilst the Valhalla was electrical. I have heard that there was a mod to the subchassis: spot welds that sometimes added small distortions were replaced by gluing. I don't know whether this is true or is available as a dealer mod. Some of them don't seem to have heard of it. The arm board too was changed a few years back. Make sure that it is made from a newer composite material. I am told that this improves bass clarity. In general, check that the tt has these features and check the set-up. (Does it bounce correctly, have the springs, bolts been renewed, is there an equal gap round all sides of the arm board, is it level with the top plate etc. If note, have the dealer overhaul it. > Q: Can anyone offer something more substantial technically (or > subjectively) that would inform me better to the added value of the > EKOS? I use an Ittok. Very happy with it, compared to previous LVX, Mission. My dealer told me if I couldn't afford an Ekos then don't listen to it as it is a major improvement. So I haven't! The Ittok is great and I get the impression that the Ekos is more so: more tightly engineered etc. I recall from a review that they may look similar visually but that you shouldn't be misled into thinking that tighter engineering is all there is to the improvements. Personally, I can't justify the Ekos until everything alse is really up to scratch (head amp + preamp). I will try to find the review and precis it if you ask. The Troika can be fitted to an Ittok by slightly enlarging an existing hole in the headshell to accommodate the third mounting bolt. Re cartridges, I would ignore the cheaper linn ones. Karma or Troika if you can afford it. Actually I use an AT OC7 because I like the clearly etched presentation (not harshness). Previously a lovely Supex 900 that needs a new stylus, so is gathering dust (any suggestions?). I would like to have the OC7 rebuilt by Stilton Audio (solid metal machined body, etc.) eventually. If you want any more detailed information, please ask and I'll try to help. While I am writing, I would be interested to hear from anyone who has experimented with tri-amping Linn Isobariks, possibly using their active crossover. Also has anyone tried building a head amp into the Linn, commercially or otherwise? Steve Collier | Tel: +44 245 73331 x 3233 GEC-Marconi Research Centre | Fax: +44 245 75244 Telex: 995016 GECRES G GEC-Marconi Ltd, Great Baddow | uucp: <world>!mcvax!ukc!gec-mrc!collier Chelmsford,Essex. UK CM2 8HN | Other: collier@uk.co.gec-mrc