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Cones under a suspended table?

One of my tables is an AR ES-1, which I've made many upgrades to over the years. It works well, and is relatively free of influence from footfalls, but I'm looking to optimize the coupling between the table and the custom shelf it sits on (I made it from 1-1/2" of HDF, under which is a layer of Sorbothance, and under that a sheet of granite). I've read on the one hand that tables like this work best with their stock feet (little rubber feet), but I'm not sure I believe these can provide the best transfer of unwanted energy from the TT into the shelf.

Anyone have experience in this area? I was thinking of trying Black Diamond cones or something like that in that sort of price range. I've been told Stillpoints are supposed to be "right" for suspended tables, but they're a little too pricey - given the age and relative value of the table. Looking for a cost-effective improvement.

Other things I've considered are Audio Prism Iso-Bearings or a set of spikes (generic) I already have resting in Isoclean Tip-Toe bases. I'll repeat that the TT is pretty well isolated from external vibrations; I'm looking for a way to drain unwanted energy from the table into the platform in the hopes of improving clarity and control.
tonyptony
mrvordo's avatar
mrvordo
142 posts
 
I use mk4s, but I have never AB the mk3, so ???? The BDRs are extremely inexpensive compared to most, and I now have them under all my front end components. I do think I got the most improvement from them under the TT though.

Good listening,
M
syntax's avatar
syntax
2,033 posts
 
Use a bicycle tube below the turntable. Better than any Mk 33.3 cones :-)
jedinite24's avatar
jedinite24
1,502 posts
 
Hi Syntax

I thought for Direct Drive turntables softer isolation was to be used and for suspended turntables cones, blocks more rigid isolation was to be used. I'm stumped yet again.
mrvordo's avatar
mrvordo
142 posts
 
A bicycle tube is basically what the Airhead is, so I'm doing that with the cones replacing the stock feet.
mrvordo's avatar
mrvordo
142 posts
 
I just changed the BDR Cones under my Oracle to mk3, and put those on mk4 Pucks. HUGH difference. Much better balance now with wider sound stage, and more clarity overall. I have no idea why these things work, but they sure do. It's also amazing how mixing mk3 and mk4 Cones and Pucks can help give a better over all balance than just using one version. They all look alike except for the 3 or 4 engraved on them, but there definitely is something different about them.
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