Basis Vector cartridge recommendations

The Synchro wave power supply does a good job of smoothing the motor out, in part, because it splits the phase to the four pole motor and delivers two separate power feeds to the motor (the motor has to be sent back to Basis), instead of using a capacitor in the motor itself to split the phase. This is the superior way to provide outboard power. Those motor controllers that don't provide two separate phases of power (i.e., the type where one simply plugs the motor into the power supply) and rely on a capacitor in the motor are particularly less desirable when the controller is also used to change speed; the capacitor can be made ideal only for the 60 hz frequency that drives the motor and a change in frequency to change speed means that capacitor cannot be properly splitting phase.

I like the Synchro with my Basis Debut, but, I would characterize the improvement as fairly subtle (Basis already delivers a very quiet background without the Synchro). To me it is worth the money, but, I would not want anyone to expect too much of a difference.

Anyone with an old belt should replace their belt. Not only is a new belt always better, Basis has improved the quality control in manufacturing belts and this really boosts performance.

Pops,

I like your choie in cartridges. I don't think there were many restrictions on your choices with the Vector arm; it would work with almost any low compliance cartridge and probably most medium compliance cartridges as well. Although Transfiguration cartridges have a low source impedance, which suggests they should be loaded down, I actually like them run with not much loading into my phonostage so do some experimenting (my Orpheus L is not that sensitive to loading).