Micro SX-8000 II or SZ-1


Does anybody know if there is a mayor difference between the Micro-Seiki SX-8000 II and the "flagship" SZ-1?
A friend told me I should look for a SZ-1 because it offers a better motor. Having a SX-8000 II I am not shure whether it is worth looking for a SZ-1 or only for another motor-unit?
thuchan
Hi Boidos, I am running the vacuum platter on my SX 8000 II, which is of course an inbuild function, as well as a Micro cu-180 mat on my Nakamichi TX-1000. If you have the option for the vacuum and it is working without big noise and does its job properly i would compare it with the sound quality provided by the cu-180 mat (with small textil layer on top). Just test the sound quality and decide for the better one. If you have the original Micro cu-180 mat it should provide a good sound.
I have now testet the Micro Seiki HS-80 - which is a passive flywheel- on my MS 8000 and the VPI SDS/dual motor flywheel - which is an active flywheel - on my MS 8000 II.

Both flywheels stabilize the sound picture but the VPI combo is some kind of a dream. The sound gets more precise, more solid. The music plays like on perfect stage.

I am now considering using two VPI combos (2 x SDS, 2x dual motor flywheel) at each side of my MS 8000. The HS-80 I will put at the right side of my MS 8000 II.

What I learned is that most motors of the vintage area are ok (basically a simple design) but not as good as well thought solutions like the VPI. You may improve your turntabe by 1.) using a flywheel and 2.) using an active version.
Thuchan, try using a quality direct-drive turntable, like a Technics SL-M3, to drive your Micro-Seiki via VHS tape and see what happens. You may like it.
Hiho, thanks for your suggestion.I am pretty fine with my VPI drives in addition to the MS drive. If you look at the VPI SDS you see that this is a masterpiece of Harry Weissfield. Most people underrate the SDS, a very cleverly combined steering wheel from many different excellent parts.

I know from audiophiles who build a TT around two SDS flying wheels. I now can imagine what kind of quality in motor precision they get.