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Experience With Linear Tracking Turntables

Ever since the advent of the Bang & Olufson linear tracking turntables of the 70's & 80's I have always wondered about their sound, function and longevity.  If you own a linear tracking turntable, I would appreciate your thoughts compared to standard pivot tonearm turntables.

Was looking at the Bergmann Magne Turntable & Tonearm "system".

Would appreciate some first hand experiences.  Do these turntables and associated tonearms function without many issues?  Does the arm track without friction?  And so on.

Your experiences would be appreciated.

Thanks and Happy Listening.
pgaulke60
billstevenson
1,203 posts
 

I have been contemplating whether or not to contribute to this discussion for a couple of days.  Ben Franklin said to say all the good and mum on the bad.  Following his wisdom, I could easily justify silence.  There is benefit in disclosure in this case though.  So here goes:  All so called linear tracking tonearms hunt more or less constantly and in truth almost constantly have tracking error.  Seeking perfection in the fine art of playing records is very much akin to seeking the Holy Grail.  Ours is a flawed endeavor, best embraced for what it is.  If perfection is your goal you would be nearer to the mark in the digital realm.

dover
2,502 posts
 

@billstevenson 

All so called linear tracking tonearms hunt more or less constantly and in truth almost constantly have tracking error. 

This may be true for some mechanically driven linear tracking arms, but can you explain why you think air bearing linear tonearms "hunt".

If perfection is your goal you would be nearer to the mark in the digital realm.

Yes digital - only a little bit out ALL of the time. If you are a cyclist it would be like riding a bike on wheels that have 36 sides.

lewm
14,687 posts
 

Pity that Mijo is no longer around with whom to argue. I want to know more about the TT that moves the platter with respect to the cartridge, instead of letting the tonearm move horizontally, I presume.

cleeds
6,583 posts
 
lewm

I want to know more about the TT that moves the platter with respect to the cartridge, instead of letting the tonearm move horizontally

I think you're referring to the Soulution 787. Info here. Odd design.

billstevenson
1,203 posts
 

@dover In addition to my other foibles, I confess to being an avid cyclist.  Practically every day in fact.  Maybe that is why I do not understand why you do not understand why there is no such thing as perfection with linear tracking tonearms. Or anything else related to playing records.  Nevertheless, it is good discussing all things irrelevant herein.  It is so much more refreshing than discussing political events.  ;-)

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