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SOTA Sapphire Upgrades


Have a SOTA Sapphire with Premier FT-3 arm and Benz MC20E2 cartridge (and reflex clamp). Would like to upgrade if an upgrade would actually make an audible difference and wasn't expensive. Anyone have any upgrade(s) that they strongly recommend? Obviously, I'm looking for the biggest bang for my buck. Is this turntable even worth upgrading? Is the FT-3 an entry level arm? I'd ask SOTA but I'm not sure they'd give me the straight scoop.
rockyboy
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
You have a really nice table that is certainly worth keeping. Start with a new belt. While you have the belt off check the bearing by rotating the platter without the belt attached. It should spin freely and for quite some time. The least expensive upgrade would be to change the tonearm cable if you are still using the one that came with the arm, cost $80.00 to $200.00. Next would be a new arm; the SME 309 is a really nice match to the table, cost $700.00 to $850.00 used. The cartridge is also well below the capabilities of the table. Too many choices here to go into but for a couple of hundred you could have an Audio Technica ATOC-9 or a Grado Platinum, both nice but somewhat different sounds.
rayd
69 posts
 
Rockyboy, I had my 15 year old Sapphire reconditioned and upgraded by SOTA. I would do it again in an instant. I spent over an hour talking to a tech who answered ever question and explained all work that could be done and why it should or should not be done. My table sounds terrific!!
nrchy's avatar
nrchy
2,111 posts
 
I understand your hesitation to talk to the manufacturer but you don't need to worry. I sent my Sapphire back to Sota in Decmeber for recommendations on upgrades or a possible trade. I ended up getting a Star after considering several possible upgrades. Kirk and Donna were more than fair in everything. My new Star sounds fantastic. Actually I have never heard a better turntable, which isn't to say they don't exist but this thing is great. I upgraded to a cosmos armboard and the more expensive record clamp: the reflex. Everything I bought was well worth the money. I have a Rega RB 900 arm and a Benz Glider (which I bought from Sota). Talk to Kirk or Donna but I think they will recommend a new arm, I would! The Sota website: www.sotaturntables.com has a list of all the possibilities if you want to check it out first, or call 1 800 772-SOTA or 7682.
Rayd is right about how they treat you. If they don't think you need a certain upgrade they will tell you not try to talk you into spending money unnecessarily.
I'm sold on them and their tables.
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