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Well Tempered Amadeus Options

Hi Guys, As I'm avid WTL Classic fan and have owned over three different versions since '93 ending with a Classic MK V version last year. But after having a chance to hear the Amadeus at Don Better Audio in Cleveland Ohio this past November I've come to the realization that had I heard this table in Feburary of said year I know what would be residing on my stand right now. But my question is ask I only intend to do this one time.............., I'm in the position to get either the standard white ball version or the more upscale GTA version with the alumium plinth and black golf ball attachment that cost $3.700 here in the States where the basic one goes for $2.850!, as I've been following the trends here regarding this table in general I'm merely wondering which route have you guys taken?, and if there is in fact a better sound being rendered by the more costly unit?, or is it purely based upon overall appearance and little if anything to do with better Fidelity?. I merely wish to go this route one time and be done with it, so your opinions with more then likely be weighed quite heavily I might add. So fellow WTL owners please share your tales and tell me what's what!. Regards, Oscar
el34eh
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chashas1
596 posts
 
Yes, tis true, source first. But in this case you're getting a better looking table is all. Hector is behind the curve. He kept using his WTL ref with the horrible black damped platter. Finally he got on board with the Amadeus. But I no longer trust his ears. I believe the British importer has dropped the Amadeus in favor of the fancier looking GTA. Marketing choice only. Either way you have a great table and great cartridge. Love the 20, the xx2, and the EMT 15. Beautiful cartridges all.
el34eh OP
53 posts
 
Chashas1, Trust me................, I do understand what you're getting at in regards to the table options as well as Hector. Yet what's the deal with the black damped platters being used on the older model?, did I miss something by using one on my Classic MK V as opposed to the original frosted one from years prior?. In the end I'll trust my ears and not my eyes before parting with the funds, but it great to have a guideline and know what's what with the DPS as well as the cartridges. All of you've made the selection process that much easier for me, and I thank you all once again for your willingness to share. Regards, Oscar
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chashas1
596 posts
 
Oscar,
I use to give Hector the business on using the black platter. We always thought it was too much and robbed the table of life. Perhaps it was a synergy thing between systems, but in any system I heard it the original firebaugh acrylic was always preferred. I didn't like what Transparent did to it.
I'm using an early version of the Amadeus with 3 feet and isolation platter.
If buying today I'd probably spring for the GTA as well, it does look snazzier. I love all your cartridge picks. Guess it depends on wallet and rest of system.
Oh, and Lonnie Smith will be playing at Jazz at the Bistro in St Louis.
Take care!
plinko
223 posts
 
Oscar, last I checked, I believe Don Better has both tables (albeit the GTA has the Dynavector arm) and he also has the power supply. You should be able to listen to both. Trust your ears but also consider that Don is a professional musician and professor of music and knows how to listen.;-)
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chashas1
596 posts
 
Hi Plinko,
The other table Don has is the Dynavector WTL table. It does indeed have the Dynavector tonearm, but a smaller plinth than the GTA. So there are three tables. Amadeus, GTA with fancy finish and black ball, and Dynavector table.
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