Optimal loading for the Orpheus

Larryi said:

"Nsgarch mentioned concentrating on the change in bass response and you concentrate on the high end. Both extremes are critical. Because I expect a good MC cartridge to deliver an open and airy top end, I am particularly concerned with loading that maintains enough top end response while avoiding excessive brightness and sibilance."

In my experience (albeit it is extreme experimenting. I not not only concentrate on high freq transient respone but also on low frequency quality and balance when dialing in a reference level transducer. In fact, I find the bass and lower midrange the most difficult challenge to get right. As far as highs and resolution are concerned. I've heard MC that definitely avoid any trace of sibilance/clinical sound yet sound artificialy detailed. The Tranfigs appear to avoid this trait. And that why I have stuck with the V.

Raul,

the RB 1000 is still in production, as far as I know.

Online retailers are listing the RB1000 at $1,995. Dang, the weak dollar has really inflated the price of UK Imports.

Dear Piedpiper: So, I was wrong and this was because I recomended this tonearm to a friend and he told me that was out of production.
Thank you for the up-date. Now, Reb1208 give us its today price that it is higher than in the past, anyway it is a very good tonearm even at that price.

Regards and enjoy the music.
Raul.

Back on to the subject at hand. I have recently bought an ASR Basis Exclusive and have been experimenting with loading for my Orpheus. I have to concur with those who state that the ideal loading is determined by the phono stage. With my Xono I found 47K to be ideal. Many may disagree but this is what worked for me in my system.

With the Basis Exclusive things are very different. There is no 47K option and I think for good reason. At 1000, the lowest resistance setting the sound is detailed but overly bright. At 95, the closest available setting to the ideal (as claimed by some) 100 ohm setting the overall presentation lacks impact and resolution. I have found that for me anything below(higher resistance) 360 ohms and some of the detail(such as the fingering of a double bass) is lost. It is not an etched sound, just more natural to me with the 360 ohm setting.

So as other posters have said. Don't get locked into thinking that a particular setting someone else with a different system recommends as perfect must be right for your ears and your system