Reason for buying old/classic turntables

Dear Jlin: +++++ " I actually preferred the Garrard [301] with Triplanar and Koetsu Rosewood Platinum to Mike's Rockport with Colibri." " +++++

this statement could be a learning one because IMHO we are comparing here two totally different " things " where IMHO ( again ) we can't make a precise and absolute comparison on the TT subject because there we have two totally different tonearms ( not only on design but internal wiring ) with two totally different cartridges.

I know very well the KRSP and the Colibri and when we have both perfectly matched to a tonearm the Colibri IMHO is the winner or at least I prefer it.

A more fair and precise comparison ( TTs ) can be do it with the same tonearm/cartridge combination where the only different " parameter " is the TT but in your example there are too many " different " parameters. The same for the Walker/Technics comparison: two different set-ups.

Both examples IMHO can't be conclusive.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.

Raul,

I agree, these are not conclusive comparisons. I also left out the qualifier where Albert wrote that his preference could have been due to the different cartridges. However, I think the overall point is that the Garrard was not obviously outclassed by the Rockport in an informal comparison of the kind that audiophiles do fairly frequently.

Also, in his earlier post that I quoted, he stated that comparing the Technics with a number of other top line tables by other audiophiles for the purposes of buying one and selling the other, the Technics was not at a disadvantage. What this says to me is that the best of the classic turntables can compete successfully with the modern state of the art as determined by a purchasing decision including factors of sound quality and cost, a point of view that I think you share considering your own choice of turntables. :-)

What I had in mind was to compare yesterday's average analog setup ( turntable, cartridge and tone-arm ) v.s something of the same caliber that is currently manufactured.

Use of the same arm & cartridge for both tables would be inaccurate when comparing vintage to present technology in my opinion.

Also two vintage integrated will be used - one Solid State and the other tube.
Both made around more or less the same time as Lenco L-75, SME 3009 II Imp. arm and Shure V15 series carts.

Present analog rig -
Machined 67mm acrylic contoured to match record surface
Bearing: Large diameter inverted fixed spindle with polished ceramic ball on teflon thrust plate.
Motor: Belgium manufactured precision hi torque DC motor.
Moarch Up-4 tone-arm
Cartridge Man - Musicmaker III with Isolator
Phono - Consonance Ref.40

Both TT in DIY plinths

We buy 'em cause we like 'em!

I don't have the technical knowledge, tactile skills or financial wherewithal to push against the upward boundaries of the state of the art. So I get as close as I can by leveraging "bang for the buck". In turntables I have found that goal best served by the use of high end vintage drive systems. I'm not sure the same can be accomplished with tonearms but my EPA 100 does very well and it was already on the table. Even if this stuff isn't as good as the very best of modern product, the fact that we are even having this debate proves that they are worthy contenders.

If you would rather have a new state of the art table and can afford one, I don't mind if you buy it. That Technics SL-1000 MK II for $3000 will wipe the floor with any new table and arm combo costing that much.

Apples to apples - let's keep it real.