I finally ordered some parts to build a record cleaning machine. I've been thinking about it for about a year. I was to the point where I was going to buy a VPI, but now that I understand that its just a platter with vacuum wand it seems kind of pricy for what you get. So far my parts list includes a sacrificial Realistic Lab 300 turntable that I really only want for bearing, platter and spindle, and some extra Disc Dr. pads. The plan is to use some 1/2 inch pvc pipe slit long-ways with DD pads attached to protect the vinyl, and elbows to build an arm wand, and then connect that to a shop-vac. I can test this mess just holding the pipe while I manually spin the platter. The eventual plan is to remove the bearing, platter and spindle from the TT and mount them in something a little more suited to attaching the plumming. So far my investment is $20 for the TT and $15 for the pads. If it doesn't work I haven't broken the bank. As soon as I get the parts I'll start posting pictures.
I've had this in my system for about six months. Used, but it sounds fantastic.
Spendor S8e
Sorry they're sideways.
Paul Speltz Anti-Wires
These were the best $100 I ever spent. It sounded like someone windexed my speakers. And I'm offended by people charging four figures for wires so these were perfect.
Ethan Allen Ethan Allen
I can hear hi-fi guys rolling their eyes. I have dogs. I needed something with doors and WAF. But, its a metal base and solid Ash. Very heavy and stable, plus, you'd be amazed how many "entertainment" pieces are out there that don't hold standard 17.5 inch components. This thing has three doors, each twenty inches wide, and the back is open to give good ventilation.
Sota Star Sapphire Series III
I love this thing!
Project Tube Box
This is working well.
Audio-Technica USA AT-OC9
A little dusty
RCM Wet Wash Cleaning Element
Note the soft pink cleaning element. Safe for your most delicate vinyl.
Grimace - very nice system. Down the road you might want to check out the Jas Musik tube cdp; I had the Jolida and feel the Jas offers a nice improvement.
I had a low mass Sonus Blue on the Grace 707 back in the late 70s and then a Shure V15; both worked well. Presently I'm using an Ortophon high output moving coil, which is a low mass cartridge, and I'm guessing would probably be a good match for the 707. It's nice you were able to come across the 707; they are getting harder and harder to find.
Nice simple system similar to mine; the Spendors are especially nice. Had a Grace 707 on my Linn LP12 back in the late 70s; still a great low mass tonearm.
