holbo MK 2 turntable


Hello all,

Finally getting back into vinyl after a 30 year hiatus.  Been auditioning various packages in the $40-50K range.  I have always been intriqued by tangential tracking air bearing arms and air bearing or otherwise "levitating" platters.  A high end dealer that I know who has a very expensive system like this (VYGER) encouraged me to try ordering this deck, with a very expensive Japanese cartridge for it, and that it might be a "giant killer" of sorts.   Do any of you have any experience with this deck?  I have read the reviews but I am curious what the Audiogon analog forum has to say.

ACR

 

reynolds537

Thanks.  I should have looked there first.  A slew of information on this already on Audiogon and I forgot to look.  Indeed it may perhaps end up being a direct comparison with the same high end cartridge on a VYGER Atlantis vs this.   We will see.   I talked to the owner in Slovania over e-mail and it seems people really like the Koetsu and Top Wing cartidges on this deck but as the reviews have said it seems to not be that picky and lots of different ones work well.   If Richard has a current cartridge recommendation I'd like to hear it.   ACR   

@reynolds537 you are very fortunate to be able to choose these type of tables. There are several, if I had the funds, I'd be looking at. The TechDAS Air Force tables, the CS Port from Japan (although at around 250 pounds might require a new stand) or Acoustical Systems makes many fine tables as well. 

You stated  "I have always been intriqued by tangential tracking air bearing arms and air bearing or otherwise "levitating" platters".  The CS Port checks those boxes. 😉

Holbo mk2 vs CS Port = 5500usd vs. 65000usd. I'm very interested in which tonearm has the ability to change VTA while playing and precise azimuth settings.wink

if you can find one on the used market, an Eminent Technology ET 2.5 would be a lot less money. Turntable not included.