Is it worth hanging around . . .?

[New Geoff]

Well, I've taken a couple of months hanging around in here, but the number
of postings relating to actual audio rather than character assassination and
back-biting has proven to be disappointing.

Shall I hang around a little longer and see if it improves?

Hmm - I might give it another week or two with new filters in place . . .

________
Geoff B

[Lionel]

New Geoff wrote:
> Well, I've taken a couple of months hanging around in here, but the number
> of postings relating to actual audio rather than character assassination and
> back-biting has proven to be disappointing.

Character assissination is a Richman's speciality.

>
> Shall I hang around a little longer and see if it improves?
>
> Hmm - I might give it another week or two with new filters in place . . .
>
> ________
> Geoff B
>
>

[New Geoff]

"Roger McDodger" stretched langourously, sniffed the air, then waved in a
lazy manner before proclaiming ...

>
> I love stream-of-consciousness stuff...
>
> So.. whaddaya want to talk about?
>

Well, I was just hoping to read about some audio-related reminiscences,
reports on how equipment fared, and get ideas about affordable upgrades.
My system, although I know it isn't 'state of the art', makes generally
satisfying noises.
But the turntable needs to be replaced (currently on a Sansui SR 222 Mk4,
bought 4th-hand about 12 years ago, fitted with an Ortofon 520, and using a
Gyromat to bring the VTA up a little).
Everything else works well enough for my needs at the moment - too busy
saving money so I can move to Thailand to worry about tiny improvements at
high cost.

Just in case anyone else is interested, the rest of the gear comprises
(Please note, those who accused me of being into 'audio trickery) :
Marantz 63 SE II signature, Denon tuner and cassette (had to decline the
ofer of a Nak, because it was just a bit too expensive) plus a Sharp Nicam
video feeding through an Alchemist Axiom (with Pro-Ject Phono Box) into
Wharfdale Pacific II's.

Total price, probably about a grand (UK prices).

All this fed with a large vinyl collection (600 LP and about the same number
of singles) and (shocking numbers when I counted them!) about 400 CDs.

Just to feed the frenzy, I've got 'nice' interconnects for the turntable and
CD - priced about the £65 ($100) mark.

Oh - and I have an old Pioneer amp serving my aged JR 149's as the rear
channels from the DVD. Wish I could replace the bass units in the JR's.
They are/were such lovely sounding little things . . . But after 20 years of
hard use they've succumbed to old age - a bit like me!.

However, if not driven too hard, they still make a good noise, and provide a
great surround experience, as I discovered when I slapped in the 'Apocalypse
Now' remaster. I grew up on the main army helicopter route in Northern
Ireland, and I know what choppers sound like as they go over (they used to
be every 5 minutes, day and night).
Only needed the smell to be totally convincing . . . .

8¬ )

________
Geoff B

[Bruce J. Richman]

Geoff B wrote:


>"Roger McDodger" stretched langourously, sniffed the air, then waved in a
>lazy manner before proclaiming ...
>
>>
>> I love stream-of-consciousness stuff...
>>
>> So.. whaddaya want to talk about?
>>
>
>Well, I was just hoping to read about some audio-related reminiscences,
>reports on how equipment fared, and get ideas about affordable upgrades.
>My system, although I know it isn't 'state of the art', makes generally
>satisfying noises.
>But the turntable needs to be replaced (currently on a Sansui SR 222 Mk4,
>bought 4th-hand about 12 years ago, fitted with an Ortofon 520, and using a
>Gyromat to bring the VTA up a little).
>Everything else works well enough for my needs at the moment - too busy
>saving money so I can move to Thailand to worry about tiny improvements at
>high cost.
>
>Just in case anyone else is interested, the rest of the gear comprises
>(Please note, those who accused me of being into 'audio trickery) :
>Marantz 63 SE II signature, Denon tuner and cassette (had to decline the
>ofer of a Nak, because it was just a bit too expensive) plus a Sharp Nicam
>video feeding through an Alchemist Axiom (with Pro-Ject Phono Box) into
>Wharfdale Pacific II's.
>
>Total price, probably about a grand (UK prices).
>
>All this fed with a large vinyl collection (600 LP and about the same number
>of singles) and (shocking numbers when I counted them!) about 400 CDs.
>
>Just to feed the frenzy, I've got 'nice' interconnects for the turntable and
>CD - priced about the £65 ($100) mark.
>
>Oh - and I have an old Pioneer amp serving my aged JR 149's as the rear
>channels from the DVD. Wish I could replace the bass units in the JR's.
>They are/were such lovely sounding little things . . . But after 20 years of
>hard use they've succumbed to old age - a bit like me!.
>
>However, if not driven too hard, they still make a good noise, and provide a
>great surround experience, as I discovered when I slapped in the 'Apocalypse
>Now' remaster. I grew up on the main army helicopter route in Northern
>Ireland, and I know what choppers sound like as they go over (they used to
>be every 5 minutes, day and night).
>Only needed the smell to be totally convincing . . . .
>
> 8¬ )
>
>________
> Geoff B
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

Since you're in the UK, an obvious turntable replacement recommendation would
be one of the relatively inexpensive Rega models, and perhaps a Rega cartridge
- as a package deal. (If you were in the US or willing to consider used tts,
I'd tend to lean towards a VPI Jr. with either an Audioquest or Rega arm -
their build quality is fantastic and they are upgradeable thru simple parts
swaps - a nice bonus for future planning). I'm not sure if they are readily
available in the UK, but Grado makes a rather large line of carridges at just
about every price point, and generallly speaking, they are good values in terms
of sound obtained for the price. Since you have a large number of LPs, I'd
also recommend a good wet-cleaning system, such as the Disc Doctor brushes and
liquids, which can be purchased in concentrated form (you just add distilled
water) for European customers. Read about this very effective product at:

www.discdoc.com


If I were in the UK and looking for a speakre upgrade at no high a cost, I'd
look for a pair of used, refurbished original Quads in good condition. (I had
a pair of Quad ESL-57's for many years, and still have fond memories of these
excellent speakers). But then again, I favor panels and dipole radiators.

YMMV.


Bruce J. Richman

[Lionel]

New Geoff wrote:
> "Roger McDodger" stretched langourously, sniffed the air, then waved in a
> lazy manner before proclaiming ...
>
>
>>I love stream-of-consciousness stuff...
>>
>>So.. whaddaya want to talk about?
>>
>
>
> Well, I was just hoping to read about some audio-related reminiscences,
> reports on how equipment fared, and get ideas about affordable upgrades.
> My system, although I know it isn't 'state of the art', makes generally
> satisfying noises.
> But the turntable needs to be replaced (currently on a Sansui SR 222 Mk4,
> bought 4th-hand about 12 years ago, fitted with an Ortofon 520, and using a
> Gyromat to bring the VTA up a little).
> Everything else works well enough for my needs at the moment - too busy
> saving money so I can move to Thailand to worry about tiny improvements at
> high cost.
>
> Just in case anyone else is interested, the rest of the gear comprises
> (Please note, those who accused me of being into 'audio trickery) :
> Marantz 63 SE II signature, Denon tuner and cassette (had to decline the
> ofer of a Nak, because it was just a bit too expensive) plus a Sharp Nicam
> video feeding through an Alchemist Axiom (with Pro-Ject Phono Box) into
> Wharfdale Pacific II's.
>
> Total price, probably about a grand (UK prices).
>
> All this fed with a large vinyl collection (600 LP and about the same number
> of singles) and (shocking numbers when I counted them!) about 400 CDs.

Your system isn't transcending but seems to be honest. Anyway you only
need a walkman in Thailand.
Tell us more about your huge venyl collection, are you a real collector
or a music lover who has accumulated vinyls ?


> Just to feed the frenzy, I've got 'nice' interconnects for the turntable and
> CD - priced about the £65 ($100) mark.

I have also "nice interconnects" that I paid EUR 8 or 9. ;-)

>
> Oh - and I have an old Pioneer amp serving my aged JR 149's as the rear
> channels from the DVD. Wish I could replace the bass units in the JR's.
> They are/were such lovely sounding little things . . . But after 20 years of
> hard use they've succumbed to old age - a bit like me!.
>
> However, if not driven too hard, they still make a good noise, and provide a
> great surround experience, as I discovered when I slapped in the 'Apocalypse
> Now' remaster. I grew up on the main army helicopter route in Northern
> Ireland, and I know what choppers sound like as they go over (they used to
> be every 5 minutes, day and night).
> Only needed the smell to be totally convincing . . . .
>
> 8¬ )
>
> ________
> Geoff B
>
>

[S888Wheel]

>From: Lionel
>Date: 10/6/2004 1:03 PM Pacific Standard Time
>Message-id: >
>
>New Geoff wrote:
>> "Roger McDodger" stretched langourously, sniffed the air, then waved in a
>> lazy manner before proclaiming ...
>>
>>
>>>I love stream-of-consciousness stuff...
>>>
>>>So.. whaddaya want to talk about?
>>>
>>
>>
>> Well, I was just hoping to read about some audio-related reminiscences,
>> reports on how equipment fared, and get ideas about affordable upgrades.
>> My system, although I know it isn't 'state of the art', makes generally
>> satisfying noises.
>> But the turntable needs to be replaced (currently on a Sansui SR 222 Mk4,
>> bought 4th-hand about 12 years ago, fitted with an Ortofon 520, and using a
>> Gyromat to bring the VTA up a little).
>> Everything else works well enough for my needs at the moment - too busy
>> saving money so I can move to Thailand to worry about tiny improvements at
>> high cost.
>>
>> Just in case anyone else is interested, the rest of the gear comprises
>> (Please note, those who accused me of being into 'audio trickery) :
>> Marantz 63 SE II signature, Denon tuner and cassette (had to decline the
>> ofer of a Nak, because it was just a bit too expensive) plus a Sharp Nicam
>> video feeding through an Alchemist Axiom (with Pro-Ject Phono Box) into
>> Wharfdale Pacific II's.
>>
>> Total price, probably about a grand (UK prices).
>>
>> All this fed with a large vinyl collection (600 LP and about the same
>number
>> of singles) and (shocking numbers when I counted them!) about 400 CDs.
>
>Your system isn't transcending but seems to be honest.

What would constitute a dishonest system?

Anyway you only
>need a walkman in Thailand.

????


>Tell us more about your huge venyl collection, are you a real collector
>or a music lover who has accumulated vinyls ?

What makes you think it is an either/or proposition?


>
>
>> Just to feed the frenzy, I've got 'nice' interconnects for the turntable
>and
>> CD - priced about the £65 ($100) mark.
>
>I have also "nice interconnects" that I paid EUR 8 or 9. ;-)
>
>>
>> Oh - and I have an old Pioneer amp serving my aged JR 149's as the rear
>> channels from the DVD. Wish I could replace the bass units in the JR's.
>> They are/were such lovely sounding little things . . . But after 20 years
>of
>> hard use they've succumbed to old age - a bit like me!.
>>
>> However, if not driven too hard, they still make a good noise, and provide
>a
>> great surround experience, as I discovered when I slapped in the
>'Apocalypse
>> Now' remaster. I grew up on the main army helicopter route in Northern
>> Ireland, and I know what choppers sound like as they go over (they used to
>> be every 5 minutes, day and night).
>> Only needed the smell to be totally convincing . . . .
>>
>> 8¬ )
>>
>> ________
>> Geoff B
>>
>>
>
>
>
>
>
>

[Bruce J. Richman]

Scott Wheeler wrote:


>>From: Lionel
>>Date: 10/6/2004 1:03 PM Pacific Standard Time
>>Message-id: >
>>
>>New Geoff wrote:
>>> "Roger McDodger" stretched langourously, sniffed the air, then waved in a
>>> lazy manner before proclaiming ...
>>>
>>>
>>>>I love stream-of-consciousness stuff...
>>>>
>>>>So.. whaddaya want to talk about?
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Well, I was just hoping to read about some audio-related reminiscences,
>>> reports on how equipment fared, and get ideas about affordable upgrades.
>>> My system, although I know it isn't 'state of the art', makes generally
>>> satisfying noises.
>>> But the turntable needs to be replaced (currently on a Sansui SR 222 Mk4,
>>> bought 4th-hand about 12 years ago, fitted with an Ortofon 520, and using
>a
>>> Gyromat to bring the VTA up a little).
>>> Everything else works well enough for my needs at the moment - too busy
>>> saving money so I can move to Thailand to worry about tiny improvements at
>>> high cost.
>>>
>>> Just in case anyone else is interested, the rest of the gear comprises
>>> (Please note, those who accused me of being into 'audio trickery) :
>>> Marantz 63 SE II signature, Denon tuner and cassette (had to decline the
>>> ofer of a Nak, because it was just a bit too expensive) plus a Sharp Nicam
>>> video feeding through an Alchemist Axiom (with Pro-Ject Phono Box) into
>>> Wharfdale Pacific II's.
>>>
>>> Total price, probably about a grand (UK prices).
>>>
>>> All this fed with a large vinyl collection (600 LP and about the same
>>number
>>> of singles) and (shocking numbers when I counted them!) about 400 CDs.
>>
>>Your system isn't transcending but seems to be honest.
>
>What would constitute a dishonest system?
>

One owned by Lionel, of course. Like everything else to which this imbecilic
antisemite is dedicated. He specializes in dishonesty, as his posts on RAO
clearly indicate.



> Anyway you only
>>need a walkman in Thailand.
>
>????
>
>
>>Tell us more about your huge venyl collection, are you a real collector
>>or a music lover who has accumulated vinyls ?
>
>What makes you think it is an either/or proposition?
>
>

You give him far to much credit by assuming that he thinks at all. His Hamas
programmers pull his strings.




>>
>>
>>> Just to feed the frenzy, I've got 'nice' interconnects for the turntable
>>and
>>> CD - priced about the £65 ($100) mark.
>>
>>I have also "nice interconnects" that I paid EUR 8 or 9. ;-)
>>
>>>
>>> Oh - and I have an old Pioneer amp serving my aged JR 149's as the rear
>>> channels from the DVD. Wish I could replace the bass units in the JR's.
>>> They are/were such lovely sounding little things . . . But after 20 years
>>of
>>> hard use they've succumbed to old age - a bit like me!.
>>>
>>> However, if not driven too hard, they still make a good noise, and provide
>>a
>>> great surround experience, as I discovered when I slapped in the
>>'Apocalypse
>>> Now' remaster. I grew up on the main army helicopter route in Northern
>>> Ireland, and I know what choppers sound like as they go over (they used to
>>> be every 5 minutes, day and night).
>>> Only needed the smell to be totally convincing . . . .
>>>
>>> 8¬ )
>>>
>>> ________
>>> Geoff B
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

Bruce J. Richman

[Lionel]

S888Wheel wrote:
>>From: Lionel
>>Date: 10/6/2004 1:03 PM Pacific Standard Time
>>Message-id: >
>>
>>New Geoff wrote:
>>
>>>"Roger McDodger" stretched langourously, sniffed the air, then waved in a
>>>lazy manner before proclaiming ...
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>>I love stream-of-consciousness stuff...
>>>>
>>>>So.. whaddaya want to talk about?
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>Well, I was just hoping to read about some audio-related reminiscences,
>>>reports on how equipment fared, and get ideas about affordable upgrades.
>>>My system, although I know it isn't 'state of the art', makes generally
>>>satisfying noises.
>>>But the turntable needs to be replaced (currently on a Sansui SR 222 Mk4,
>>>bought 4th-hand about 12 years ago, fitted with an Ortofon 520, and using a
>>>Gyromat to bring the VTA up a little).
>>>Everything else works well enough for my needs at the moment - too busy
>>>saving money so I can move to Thailand to worry about tiny improvements at
>>>high cost.
>>>
>>>Just in case anyone else is interested, the rest of the gear comprises
>>>(Please note, those who accused me of being into 'audio trickery) :
>>>Marantz 63 SE II signature, Denon tuner and cassette (had to decline the
>>>ofer of a Nak, because it was just a bit too expensive) plus a Sharp Nicam
>>>video feeding through an Alchemist Axiom (with Pro-Ject Phono Box) into
>>>Wharfdale Pacific II's.
>>>
>>>Total price, probably about a grand (UK prices).
>>>
>>>All this fed with a large vinyl collection (600 LP and about the same
>>
>>number
>>
>>>of singles) and (shocking numbers when I counted them!) about 400 CDs.
>>
>>Your system isn't transcending but seems to be honest.
>
>
> What would constitute a dishonest system?

A system which would not bring the pleasure you are waiting from it.
A little bit like a discussion which would insidiously degenerate in a
kind of contest and later in a real fight.

>
> Anyway you only
>
>>need a walkman in Thailand.
>
>
> ????


????????????
I never bring my HiFi on the beach, sorry.

>
>
>
>>Tell us more about your huge venyl collection, are you a real collector
>>or a music lover who has accumulated vinyls ?
>
>
> What makes you think it is an either/or proposition?

The collector is often interested (more focused) on the object itself
rather than is content. For example a philatelist is often more
interested by the stamp itself than by the pictural art.
But I imagine that the 2 proposals aren't systematically exclusive and
that you can find Music lovers who are also collector and vice-versa.

I hope this answers to your question.


>>>Just to feed the frenzy, I've got 'nice' interconnects for the turntable
>>
>>and
>>
>>>CD - priced about the £65 ($100) mark.
>>
>>I have also "nice interconnects" that I paid EUR 8 or 9. ;-)
>>
>>
>>>Oh - and I have an old Pioneer amp serving my aged JR 149's as the rear
>>>channels from the DVD. Wish I could replace the bass units in the JR's.
>>>They are/were such lovely sounding little things . . . But after 20 years
>>
>>of
>>
>>>hard use they've succumbed to old age - a bit like me!.
>>>
>>>However, if not driven too hard, they still make a good noise, and provide
>>
>>a
>>
>>>great surround experience, as I discovered when I slapped in the
>>
>>'Apocalypse
>>
>>>Now' remaster. I grew up on the main army helicopter route in Northern
>>>Ireland, and I know what choppers sound like as they go over (they used to
>>>be every 5 minutes, day and night).
>>>Only needed the smell to be totally convincing . . . .
>>>
>>> 8¬ )
>>>
>>>________
>>> Geoff B
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
>

[Lionel]

Bruce J. Richman wrote:

>>What would constitute a dishonest system?
>>
>
>
> One owned by Lionel, of course. Like everything else to which this imbecilic
> antisemite is dedicated. He specializes in dishonesty, as his posts on RAO
> clearly indicate.

>>What makes you think it is an either/or proposition?
>>
>>
>
>
> You give him far to much credit by assuming that he thinks at all. His Hamas
> programmers pull his strings.

It is now clear that Bruce J. Richman is not really interested in audio
discussion.
Acute readers will have detected a few jealousy on this one. ;-)


> Bruce J. Richman
> Limited psychologist
>
>

[New Geoff]

"Lionel" wondered...

> Tell us more about your huge venyl collection, are you a real collector
> or a music lover who has accumulated vinyls ?
>

I guess it's a bit of both - I started buying in '76, so it was all vinyl
(on a schoolboy budget). Hurrah for punk, and John Peel, with their
horizon-expanding attitudes.
. I
started exploring other influences then (and having a really good music
teacher at school helped!).

So by the time I moved to England in '80 I had a big trunkful of vinyl. I
only bought a CD player in '98, when I couldn't find my nice fix of black
plastic . . .
And a few years back a guy at work decided to off-load his LPs . . . so I
bought a load at ridiculous prices (virtually mint first-issue Pink Floyd at
£1.50 each ! - some records still unopened, that when I checked are listed
at 50 quid a time . . . .). But I have to admit, some of the punk era
singles are an eye opener - I paid 25p for some now listed at over 100 quid!
So I want to stay with vinyl until it really comes back! (And it will, I'm
sure.)

>[i]
> > Just to feed the frenzy, I've got 'nice' interconnects for the turntable
and
> > CD - priced about the £65 ($100) mark.
>
> I have also "nice interconnects" that I paid EUR 8 or 9. ;-)
>
Eee-ooohhh! Do tell . . . .

Mine are Cambridge Audio & Ixios, bought from Richer Sounds. I've loaned
them to friends, and their wives noticed the difference, thus granting them
permission to buy some for themselves . . .

<sigh> - still can't shake the lust for a mate's system - Pink Triangle /
Krell / Scintillas (in a HUGE room - by UK standards . . .) One of the most
natural sounds I've ever heard.

________
Geoff B

[New Geoff]

"Lionel" mentioned...

> >
> > Anyway you only
> >
> >>need a walkman in Thailand.

> I never bring my HiFi on the beach, sorry.
>

Beach??
Sorry, but I'm off into the hills around Mae Hong Son again . . .
I grew up in a seaside resort - hate the places! Give me the mountains ever
time. . .

Besides, when I move there I'll be an impoverished teacher, so I won't be
able to indulge in the dream systems.
That's why I'd like to hear about realistically priced gear!

_______
Geoff B

[Robert Morein]

"New Geoff" <m.gjb SPHERICAL > wrote in message
...
> Well, I've taken a couple of months hanging around in here, but the number
> of postings relating to actual audio rather than character assassination
and
> back-biting has proven to be disappointing.
>
> Shall I hang around a little longer and see if it improves?
>
> Hmm - I might give it another week or two with new filters in place . . .
>
> ________
> Geoff B
>
What Middius is getting at is that you can't wait for audio related
discussions to spontaneously arise. If you have a concern, put it out there,
and simply disregard the inevitable flames.

It's panning for gold. The vein is reasonably productive.

[Lionel]

New Geoff wrote:
> "Lionel" mentioned...
>
>
>>> Anyway you only
>>>
>>>
>>>>need a walkman in Thailand.
>
>
>>I never bring my HiFi on the beach, sorry.
>>
>
>
> Beach??
> Sorry, but I'm off into the hills around Mae Hong Son again . . .
> I grew up in a seaside resort - hate the places! Give me the mountains ever
> time. . .

I am in hills and mountains all the year... this explains our divergent
tropical-heaven dreams.

>
> Besides, when I move there I'll be an impoverished teacher, so I won't be
> able to indulge in the dream systems.
> That's why I'd like to hear about realistically priced gear!

I'm not a teacher but I have the same problem than you, my HiFi system
is very modest but a very, very good friend.

>
> _______
> Geoff B
>
>

[Sander deWaal]

"New Geoff" <m.gjb SPHERICAL > said:

>Besides, when I move there I'll be an impoverished teacher, so I won't be
>able to indulge in the dream systems.
>That's why I'd like to hear about realistically priced gear!

Ever thought about DIY?

--
Sander deWaal
"SOA of a KT88? Sufficient."

[Sander deWaal]

"New Geoff" <m.gjb SPHERICAL > said:

>So I want to stay with vinyl until it really comes back! (And it will, I'm
>sure.)

It has never been away.

--
Sander deWaal
"SOA of a KT88? Sufficient."

[New Geoff]

"Sander deWaal" queried...

>
> Ever thought about DIY?
>

Electrical stuff and me . . . . oh dear . . . (although I did OK making
up circuits on my C&G course - but that was nearly 20 years ago!)

I'd love to have a go at building a turntable, if anyone has some good sites
to use for research . . . .

_______
Geoff B

[Bruce J. Richman]

New Geoff wrote:


>"Sander deWaal" queried...
>
>>
>> Ever thought about DIY?
>>
>
>Electrical stuff and me . . . . oh dear . . . (although I did OK making
>up circuits on my C&G course - but that was nearly 20 years ago!)
>
>I'd love to have a go at building a turntable, if anyone has some good sites
>to use for research . . . .
>
>_______
> Geoff B
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

Not to discourage you, if you want the satisfaction of building something, but,
the parts involved may make it more cost effective to consider buying a decent
used model from a reputable dealer or on eBay (if you can check out the
source). See my prior post in this thread for recommendations as to brands.


Bruce J. Richman

[Sander deWaal]

"New Geoff" <m.gjb SPHERICAL > said:

>> Ever thought about DIY?

>Electrical stuff and me . . . . oh dear . . . (although I did OK making
>up circuits on my C&G course - but that was nearly 20 years ago!)

There are many kits around, both tube and solid state.
It may seem useless to build an amplifier yourself, considering the
costs, but apart from the "bragging rights" (©Howard Ferstler) , there
is a point of diminishing return where DIY can offer more value than
readily built.
Especially when you're attracted to valve stuff, this point is closer
than many people think.

I'm an avid DIY-er, and I wouldn't have been able to put together a
system of the same quality as I have now without building stuff
myself.
Apart from the speakers and CD transport, everything in my main system
is DIY.

>I'd love to have a go at building a turntable, if anyone has some good sites
>to use for research . . . .

This should get you started, and drooling :-)

http://www.decdun.fsnet.co.uk/turntables.html
http://www.theanalogdept.com/diy_turntables.htm
http://indigo.ie/~walton/deck1.html

Of course, you can get a good Thorens TD160 (or 165, 145 etc) as a
solid base and tweak it to your heart's extent.
That's what I did, essentially. I used the platter, subchassis and
motor of a TD160 mk.II , added a suspension, cabinet, arm, cartridge
and electronic AC motor stabilization.
A cheaper way would be to use a good DC motor with tacho, and that's
probably even better than AC after all.

--
Sander deWaal
"SOA of a KT88? Sufficient."

[New Geoff]

"Sander deWaal" offered...

>
> This should get you started, and drooling :-)
>
> http://www.decdun.fsnet.co.uk/turntables.html
> http://www.theanalogdept.com/diy_turntables.htm
> http://indigo.ie/~walton/deck1.html
>

Oooh, ta!

I'll explore this weekend!

It probably helps that I've got some good cotact with a guy who owns the
company that makes bits for my company (Airbus) in a nearby machining
company! I dare say I can arrange a good deal if I offer to go over and
hit his Ducatis with a hammer now & again 8¬ P

Thanks again!

________
Geoff B

[S888Wheel]

>From: Lionel
>Date: 10/6/2004 2:18 PM Pacific Standard Time
>Message-id: >
>
>S888Wheel wrote:
>>>From: Lionel
>>>Date: 10/6/2004 1:03 PM Pacific Standard Time
>>>Message-id: >
>>>
>>>New Geoff wrote:
>>>
>>>>"Roger McDodger" stretched langourously, sniffed the air, then waved in a
>>>>lazy manner before proclaiming ...
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>>I love stream-of-consciousness stuff...
>>>>>
>>>>>So.. whaddaya want to talk about?
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>Well, I was just hoping to read about some audio-related reminiscences,
>>>>reports on how equipment fared, and get ideas about affordable upgrades.
>>>>My system, although I know it isn't 'state of the art', makes generally
>>>>satisfying noises.
>>>>But the turntable needs to be replaced (currently on a Sansui SR 222 Mk4,
>>>>bought 4th-hand about 12 years ago, fitted with an Ortofon 520, and using
>a
>>>>Gyromat to bring the VTA up a little).
>>>>Everything else works well enough for my needs at the moment - too busy
>>>>saving money so I can move to Thailand to worry about tiny improvements at
>>>>high cost.
>>>>
>>>>Just in case anyone else is interested, the rest of the gear comprises
>>>>(Please note, those who accused me of being into 'audio trickery) :
>>>>Marantz 63 SE II signature, Denon tuner and cassette (had to decline the
>>>>ofer of a Nak, because it was just a bit too expensive) plus a Sharp Nicam
>>>>video feeding through an Alchemist Axiom (with Pro-Ject Phono Box) into
>>>>Wharfdale Pacific II's.
>>>>
>>>>Total price, probably about a grand (UK prices).
>>>>
>>>>All this fed with a large vinyl collection (600 LP and about the same
>>>
>>>number
>>>
>>>>of singles) and (shocking numbers when I counted them!) about 400 CDs.
>>>
>>>Your system isn't transcending but seems to be honest.
>>
>>
>> What would constitute a dishonest system?
>
>A system which would not bring the pleasure you are waiting from it.

OK. I don't think I would use honesty as a description. I think honesty has
it's own meaning that is simply unrelated to your criteria.


>A little bit like a discussion which would insidiously degenerate in a
>kind of contest and later in a real fight.
>
>>
>> Anyway you only
>>
>>>need a walkman in Thailand.
>>
>>
>> ????
>
>
>????????????
>I never bring my HiFi on the beach, sorry.

What if you had a house there? This guy is talking about relocating isn't he?


>
>>
>>
>>
>>>Tell us more about your huge venyl collection, are you a real collector
>>>or a music lover who has accumulated vinyls ?
>>
>>
>> What makes you think it is an either/or proposition?
>
>The collector is often interested (more focused) on the object itself
>rather than is content. For example a philatelist is often more
>interested by the stamp itself than by the pictural art.
>But I imagine that the 2 proposals aren't systematically exclusive and
>that you can find Music lovers who are also collector and vice-versa.

I think you will find that to be the rule rather than the exception. Think
about it, what would motivate one to collect records without an initial
interest in music?


>
>I hope this answers to your question.

Yes. I appreciate your tone too.


>
>
>>>>Just to feed the frenzy, I've got 'nice' interconnects for the turntable
>>>
>>>and
>>>
>>>>CD - priced about the £65 ($100) mark.
>>>
>>>I have also "nice interconnects" that I paid EUR 8 or 9. ;-)
>>>
>>>
>>>>Oh - and I have an old Pioneer amp serving my aged JR 149's as the rear
>>>>channels from the DVD. Wish I could replace the bass units in the JR's.
>>>>They are/were such lovely sounding little things . . . But after 20 years
>>>
>>>of
>>>
>>>>hard use they've succumbed to old age - a bit like me!.
>>>>
>>>>However, if not driven too hard, they still make a good noise, and provide
>>>
>>>a
>>>
>>>>great surround experience, as I discovered when I slapped in the
>>>
>>>'Apocalypse
>>>
>>>>Now' remaster. I grew up on the main army helicopter route in Northern
>>>>Ireland, and I know what choppers sound like as they go over (they used to
>>>>be every 5 minutes, day and night).
>>>>Only needed the smell to be totally convincing . . . .
>>>>
>>>> 8¬ )
>>>>
>>>>________
>>>> Geoff B
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>
>
>
>
>
>

[Lionel]

S888Wheel wrote:
>>From: Lionel
>>Date: 10/6/2004 2:18 PM Pacific Standard Time
>>Message-id: >
>>
>>S888Wheel wrote:
>>
>>>>From: Lionel
>>>>Date: 10/6/2004 1:03 PM Pacific Standard Time
>>>>Message-id: >
>>>>
>>>>New Geoff wrote:
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>>"Roger McDodger" stretched langourously, sniffed the air, then waved in a
>>>>>lazy manner before proclaiming ...
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>>I love stream-of-consciousness stuff...
>>>>>>
>>>>>>So.. whaddaya want to talk about?
>>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>Well, I was just hoping to read about some audio-related reminiscences,
>>>>>reports on how equipment fared, and get ideas about affordable upgrades.
>>>>>My system, although I know it isn't 'state of the art', makes generally
>>>>>satisfying noises.
>>>>>But the turntable needs to be replaced (currently on a Sansui SR 222 Mk4,
>>>>>bought 4th-hand about 12 years ago, fitted with an Ortofon 520, and using
>>
>>a
>>
>>>>>Gyromat to bring the VTA up a little).
>>>>>Everything else works well enough for my needs at the moment - too busy
>>>>>saving money so I can move to Thailand to worry about tiny improvements at
>>>>>high cost.
>>>>>
>>>>>Just in case anyone else is interested, the rest of the gear comprises
>>>>>(Please note, those who accused me of being into 'audio trickery) :
>>>>>Marantz 63 SE II signature, Denon tuner and cassette (had to decline the
>>>>>ofer of a Nak, because it was just a bit too expensive) plus a Sharp Nicam
>>>>>video feeding through an Alchemist Axiom (with Pro-Ject Phono Box) into
>>>>>Wharfdale Pacific II's.
>>>>>
>>>>>Total price, probably about a grand (UK prices).
>>>>>
>>>>>All this fed with a large vinyl collection (600 LP and about the same
>>>>
>>>>number
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>>of singles) and (shocking numbers when I counted them!) about 400 CDs.
>>>>
>>>>Your system isn't transcending but seems to be honest.
>>>
>>>
>>>What would constitute a dishonest system?
>>
>>A system which would not bring the pleasure you are waiting from it.
>
>
> OK. I don't think I would use honesty as a description. I think honesty has
> it's own meaning that is simply unrelated to your criteria.

It is a very popular way, here, to describe something which "fits the
purpose".

In my family we are *fan* of camping . And for me summer holidays should
also be the occasion of a rupture with the common habits, a kind of lay
carem or ramadan. :-)
As during the year I use to listen a *LOT* of music it seems me
important to reduce my consommation during this period, to be more
available for the family, discoveries... In order to be more "open
minded" (did I hear some laughs ?).
But as your surely know it's very difficult... So I have purchase a very
cheap system (I hate to listen music via ear plugs or headset) of
un-amplified speakers that you can connect to the output line of a
walkman... The most ridiculous, the most cheapest audio system that you
can imagine, a very very tiny sound...
Would you believe me now if I tell you that at night in the quietness of
the tent, in the duvet, considering the circumstances and the exiguity
of the place, this system *perfectly* fits the purpose ? That it is a
very *honest* system ?


>>A little bit like a discussion which would insidiously degenerate in a
>>kind of contest and later in a real fight.
>>
>>
>>> Anyway you only
>>>
>>>
>>>>need a walkman in Thailand.
>>>
>>>
>>>????
>>
>>
>>????????????
>>I never bring my HiFi on the beach, sorry.
>
>
> What if you had a house there? This guy is talking about relocating isn't he?

Perhaps... Something else I haven't understood. :-)

>>>>Tell us more about your huge venyl collection, are you a real collector
>>>>or a music lover who has accumulated vinyls ?
>>>
>>>
>>>What makes you think it is an either/or proposition?
>>
>>The collector is often interested (more focused) on the object itself
>>rather than is content. For example a philatelist is often more
>>interested by the stamp itself than by the pictural art.
>>But I imagine that the 2 proposals aren't systematically exclusive and
>>that you can find Music lovers who are also collector and vice-versa.
>
>
> I think you will find that to be the rule rather than the exception. Think
> about it, what would motivate one to collect records without an initial
> interest in music?

Sincerely I don't know. I was fully agree with your above statement
before I went on *specialized* vinyl open market.
Obviously and honestly I cannot say that they don't have any initial,
surviving, or real interest for music. But *some* of the specialists who
haunt such places have an avid way to focus on the object for itself.

Anyway at least it is a hobby, so I guess that they are paying back with
the famous (invested pleasure x hobby coef.). So even if I don't
understand it I cannot criticize it per se.
Note that sometime I cannot avoid few irony, specially when I see some
wine collectors who will never taste the wine they purchase at high cost.

>>I hope this answers to your question.
>
>
> Yes. I appreciate your tone too.

I hope I will be able to keep it "as it" even if we disagree one more
time in the furtur.

>>>>>Just to feed the frenzy, I've got 'nice' interconnects for the turntable
>>>>
>>>>and
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>>CD - priced about the £65 ($100) mark.
>>>>
>>>>I have also "nice interconnects" that I paid EUR 8 or 9. ;-)
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>>Oh - and I have an old Pioneer amp serving my aged JR 149's as the rear
>>>>>channels from the DVD. Wish I could replace the bass units in the JR's.
>>>>>They are/were such lovely sounding little things . . . But after 20 years
>>>>
>>>>of
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>>hard use they've succumbed to old age - a bit like me!.
>>>>>
>>>>>However, if not driven too hard, they still make a good noise, and provide
>>>>
>>>>a
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>>great surround experience, as I discovered when I slapped in the
>>>>
>>>>'Apocalypse
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>>Now' remaster. I grew up on the main army helicopter route in Northern
>>>>>Ireland, and I know what choppers sound like as they go over (they used to
>>>>>be every 5 minutes, day and night).
>>>>>Only needed the smell to be totally convincing . . . .
>>>>>
>>>>> 8¬ )
>>>>>
>>>>>________
>>>>>Geoff B
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
>

[Sander deWaal]

"New Geoff" <m.gjb SPHERICAL > said:

>It probably helps that I've got some good cotact with a guy who owns the
>company that makes bits for my company (Airbus) in a nearby machining
>company! I dare say I can arrange a good deal if I offer to go over and
>hit his Ducatis with a hammer now & again 8¬ P

Ducatis need more than just a hit with a hammer every now and then ;-)
They're the ultimate DIY-ers nightmare.

>Thanks again!

You're welcome!

--
Sander deWaal
"SOA of a KT88? Sufficient."