2. analog
  3. 125194-3450

Durand Kairos vs Reed 3P : listening impressions

I am on the lookout for a 2nd tone arm for my TW AC turntable. On the short list are a Durand Kairos and a Reed 3P, both in the same price zone and within my budget. An audition is not possible. The existing tone arm on the TW AC is a Durand Talea2. I have enjoyed every minute with the Takea2. I am looking for listening impressions or ownership experience. I have no interest in a which is better discussion because frankly that is completely subjective and meaningless at this level. The carts would be either a Lyra Atlas or an Etna. The last time I started a thread on a Graham Phantom vs Triplanar arm, I ended up with a Durand Talea2. Hence I am open to other suggestions.
Many thanks
Pradeep
128x128sunnyboy1956

Showing 1 response by folkfreak

folkfreak's avatar
folkfreak
1,349 posts
 
Well as a Kairos owner I can certainly endorse it whole heartedly. I always admired the Talea but as it is no longer available purchased a Kairos to replace a Triplanar VII which it beat soundly (especially on control of the cartridge (an Air Tight PC-1) and coherency of sound at all volume levels and complexities

Somewhat off your question but seeing as you have the funds I'd very strongly recommend you audition the Durand weight on your table. Frankly this has been transformative on my EAR DiscMaster and while expensive for a weight it is quite astounding how it opens out the soundstage and allows you to pick apart every element of the recording. If you have not tried one do give it an audition. I see in your system photos you have a weight in some pictures but not sure which one(s) you have

Anyway back to your main question if you like the sound of the Talea I think you will love the Kairos
More to discover