Is a PTP Solid 12 (Lenco) worthy of a $5k cartridge


Calling audiophiles who have heard these PTP modified Lenco GL75. It looks like a neat modification/restoration. But can they be considered as a serious front-end worthy of a $5k cartridge and $10k phonostage ?

There is a lot of fan following for vintage idler drives, especially those which are updated and modified with the latest components but I seldom see people using top quality ancillaries with these turntables. I have been going through a lot of posts on forums and youtube videos related to these TTs. Almost every time I see these paired with some Denon 103 variants or sometimes an SPU. I am fancying to put a high quality Dynavector/ZYX/Benz/Transfiguration on it. Will it make sense ?


pani

Showing 1 response by dodgealum

Pani--this is an interesting topic and one that I have spent some time exploring. I have heard first hand the uniquely satisfying presentation of an idler table but have been reluctant to pursue one for several reasons. One concern is that most of those available are simply reconditioned units that (mostly) rely upon antiquated technology/parts. Another is cost--resurgent interest in these tables has driven up prices, making them less competitive with other modern production tables using belt or other drive technologies. While I drool over the photos on the Artisan Fidelity website, I just can't see spending that kind of money for what is essentially a decades old table in a beautiful plinth with some update parts (i.e. bearing, idler wheel). The PTP table is interesting in that it is not terribly expensive, owing to the reasonable cost of the corian plinth. I have corresponded with Peter who is very knowledgeable, responsive and measured. Would I put a top flight arm and cartridge on this table? Hard to know without seeing/hearing one first hand--an issue with the PTP is that you are dealing with an international purchase and there is no dealer network that I am aware of. That aside, I think the PTP is a reasonable choice given the cost as compared with some other options. Recently, however, I came across a modern idler iteration that may be a compelling alternative--the Sempersonous TE-1 from Portugal. This table uses modern technology in an idler configuration and projected pricing puts it within reach of many audiophiles. I haven't heard it but plan to soon so will report back what I find on this thread.