@drbond : Always that we can is healthy that the counterweigth be as close the tonearm pivot/bearing as is posible because between other things improves the LP tracking.
R.
Phono Stage upgrade to complement Dohmann Helix One Mk 2
Thanks to the recommendations from many users on this Audiogon blog, I think I was able to make a more informed purchase of a turntable, the Dohmann Helix One Mk 2. I've really been enjoying the turntable for the past month!
The next phase of my system now needs attention: the phono stage. Currently, I'm using a Manley Steelhead v2 running into an Ypsilon PST-100 Mk2 SE pre-amplifier (into Ypsilon Hyperion monoblocks, into Sound Lab M745PX electrostatic speakers).
I've been told that I could really improve my system by upgrading the phono stage from the Manley Steelhead (although I've also been told that the Manley Steelhead is one of the best phono stages ever made).
Interestingly, two of the top phono stages that I'm considering require a step-up transformer (SUT). I'm not fully informed about any inherent advantages or disadvantages of using an SUT versus connecting directly to the phono stage itself.
I suppose my current top two considerations for a phono stage are the Ypsilon VPS-100 and the EM/IA LR Phono Corrector, both of which utilize an SUT. I don't have a particular price range, but I find it hard to spend $100k on stereo components, so I'm probably looking in the $15k - $70k price range.
Thanks.
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You know you need a heavier CW if your present CW is insufficient in weight to achieve the desired VTF with your particular cartridge. If you’re at the end of rear travel of the CW in order to achieve VTF, then too you might consider a heavier CW so you can get it closer to the pivot and still achieve VTFlike Raul said. |
Thanks for clarifying: my counterweights are about equidistant from the pivot to the end of the tonearm, so I don't think anything extra is needed there. I think perhaps @mijostyn meant a brass cartridge mounting plate as opposed to brass counterweight. . . but maybe I'm wrong. |
@drbond, I can make mounting plates but I thought it was a counter weight you needed. The counter weight of the CB is in two pieces. The larger section unscrews from the top section through which the tonearms shaft passes. There are three different bottom sections. The arm comes with the intermediate section then there is a lighter one and a heavier one. Both @lewm and @rauliruegas are entirely correct. Depending on the mass of the cartridge and the VTF you want to choose the counterweight that gets you closest to the pivot. Personally, I think the arm should come with all three weights. Being able to make the weights allows me to tune the situation exactly. It is just basic machining and now that I have all the drills and taps required I can turn them out rapidly. Brass is easy to polish and get a mirror finish. The only problem is matching the color. Most people would never notice unless it was pointed out to them. I assume you got the arm from Dohmann with the table. I would contact them first to see if they have additional cartridge mounting plates. Get at least one of each so you can be prepared for any eventuality. |
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