SME 3009 II Unimporved -- "Thin" Sound


I would much appreciate any guidance/comments:  I am getting back into analogue after 20 years away, and had a opportunity to have a Thorens 124 and SME 3009 II Unimproved completely restored -- then set up by a knowledgeable technician.  My tech also recommended a Hana EH, which now has about 30 hours' time logged. Have tried BOTH the MM input on my Audible Illusions Modulus 3A, and the Schitt Mani into the AUX input of the Audible Illusions. Also purchased several current audiophile LP's of various genres -- for "trial" purposes.

To my ear, the result is "OK," but a bit lifeless.

Without drilling down too deeply into the physics and arm adjustments -- which I am 95% certain are correct -- can anyone enlighten me as to how I can improve. I suspect the hardware and mechanics -- given their age -- are capable of much better performance, but ... (after being accustomed to good quality digital reproduction) I am beginning to wonder if my expectations are too high!

THANKS, all!

wdesbrow

Showing 4 responses by roberjerman

The Hana SL has a Shibata-profile stylus - again a superior shape capable of better detail retrieval than an elliptical stylus.
For an SUT I can recommend a Bellari. I have one in my collection - $500 and USA-made. I always prefer a SUT over any tube or transistor high-gain phono stage for mc cartridges! Superior dynamics and far lower noise floor.

Get a Hana SL mc cartridge and a good SUT (step-up transformer). This combination into the mm input on the Modulus will give you all the "life" and dynamics missing from your present rig! Nothing wrong with the Thorens/SME combination! 
Avoid high-output mc cartridges. None of them sound as good as low-output mc's!