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Best Vibraplane Compressor Substitute?


Just bought a 20 x 24" Vibraplane to use under my TT, and am very excited.

It comes without a compressor and I wonder if there's any reason to spend a lot of money, just for 'hot air'? (couldn't resist)

Really, is there any justificaton for an expensive compressor? The bladders on the item are purported to be sound, and if they're not I will replace them myself. The compressor will only come on as needed: I can 'top off' the machine before listening and disconnect it. The VP is not going to need air during a two or three hour session, certainly.

My thought is to buy a relatively inexpensive unit, and proceed as above.

I would appreciate your suggestions, and thank you in advance for sharing your experience.

Best,

David
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cdk84 OP
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Hello Everyone,

Thank you for your suggestions.

Albert, it's a model 2012-13 (13 designating vinyl top). I agree about Nitrogen: it is not only safer but as an inert gas, less reactive with the storage cylinder and the rubber of the air bladders. As the unit dates to 1998, rubber condition is a potential consideration.

Palasr, I'm already looking into sheet steel for a top. As my TT and plinth weigh ca. 80 lbs, I will be looking for 175 lbs of steel +/-. You are absolutely correct: a friend added 1" steel (150 lbs) to his Vibraplane and the improvement was shocking; immediately evident.

Elizabeth, Your suggestion makes great sense. Somewhere I have an old storage cylinder. My scuba tank would also do. Being a car geek, my air tank for topping off tires could be put to good use. I really like your common sense approach. Why is common sense an oxymoron?

My thinking is that the bladders should hold air for a five hour listening session. I can simply make topping up the air part of the pre-listening ritual, putting the remaining $575 into new vinyl.

Thanks very much everyone. If further ideas come to mind, please weigh in.

Best to Each of You,

David
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