The Audio Appraisal Reference Hi-Fi System
The Audio Appraisal reference system. This post will be updated to reflect future changes and kept as a historic reference to log the equipment used to create these reviews.
Turntable
4 Audio-Technica VM500 / VM700 Phono Cartridges Reviewed
cracking carts for the money, continuing a logical reshuffle and welcome refresh of AT's cartridge line.
Will An Audio-Technica AT-LP60 / AT-LP60X Turntable Damage Your Records?
The Audio-Technica AT-LP60 is without doubt one of the best-selling budget turntables to date, and the newly released AT-LP60X is sure to follow. But will either turntable cause undue damage to your records?
2 Repairing an Audio-Technica AT-LP60 With a Failed Motor
A couple of years ago I tested a GPO Stylo which was at the time one of the cheapest turntables available on the market. It was suggested that I repeat the test with an Audio-Technica AT-Lp60, arguably one of the best-selling budget turntables.
Thorens TD-150, Rebuild & Modification Part Four
A tale of two turntables continues. In part 4 we’ll wrap up the series with some final observations, build notes and listening tests.
12 Technics SL-1200G Review & Comparison With SL-1200GR
Like the SP10 in the late ‘60s, the SL-1200G has raised the bar and set new performance standards that should redefine expectations for what high-end vinyl playback should be. The SL-1200G is a masterpiece. You owe it to yourself to hear one.
1 Building the AAP12, Thorens TD-150 Modification Part Three
Herein we continue the tale of two turntables with the build of the AAP12, a turntable based on a Thorens TD-150 but with extensive modifications.
Thorens TD-150 Rebuild Part Two, Project Maple
a stock Thorens TD-150 transformed but with its original charm intact.
Thorens TD-150, Rebuild & Modification Part One
It’s been a while since I owned a suspended belt drive turntable. I decided to build two decks; one based on a stock TD-150 MK2 in a Maple plinth and the other, using the inner workings of the TD-150 (sub-chassis, bearing, platter and motor) but with a new top plate and extensive modification and in a Cherry plinth.
DIY Plinth Dimensions For Linn LP12 / Thorens / Ariston ...
With a great deal of research and a bit of trial and error I have managed to assemble a list of dimensions that work to build a Linn plinth. They are published here in the hope that they will help future DIYers.
4 Audio-Technica AT-VM95 Detailed Review & Measurements
Succeeding the AT95 was a tough ask, but Audio-Technica have risen to the challenge. May the ‘green king’ rest in peace, the successor has arrived to steal the throne.
7 Technics SL-1200GR / SL-1210GR Turntable Review
When Technics commercialised the direct drive turntable in the ‘70s, they became known as class-leading products among the best available at any price. These new Technics turntable set new technical standards which will pave the way for future evolution of vinyl and the equipment we use to play it.
1 SweetVinyl SugarCube SC-1 Vinyl Click & Pop Remover Review
The SugarCube enhances the listening experience with vinyl old and new, and for that it earns a thoroughly deserved recommendation.
8 Technics SL-L20 Linear Tracking Turntable Service
I’ve yet to come across a Technics that didn’t at least sound good, and I had great fun spinning 7” singles on the L20 before returning it to its rightful owner ready to deliver another few decades of faithful service.
4 Cheap Turntable Isolation Platform with Corian and Sorbothane
I was surprised by the performance improvement. A highly recommended and worthwhile DIY upgrade that must be heard to be believed.
Little Fwend Automatic Tonearm Lifter Review
The Little Fwend is as thoughtfully designed as it is nicely machined. Setup correctly it does its job with no hassle and minimal user input, besides a quick push on its platform after each use. Expensive it may be, but it’s a terrific accessory and is therefore highly recommended.
The World’s Cheapest Vinyl Turntable, Review and Destruction
If there was ever a product deserving of its place at the bottom of a landfill, this is it.
Introducing The Hardline According To Terence Trent D’Arby – 30 ...
It’s been 30 years since the man “Smash Hits” magazine christened Terence Tea-Towel released his debut album, “Introducing […]
Audio-Technica AT33PTG/II Moving Coil Cartridge Review
You could spend a fortune on the best cartridge money can buy for minimal return, or you could opt for the modestly price option that simply gets everything right and buy more music. I know which I’d rather.
Arcam rPhono Phono Stage Review
Arcam have been known to produce some fine phono stages and the rPhono continues that tradition.
A Guide to Phono Stages
A phono stage is a preamplifier used to boost the minute signal of a phono cartridge, while reversing the equalisation curves used when cutting the record. Here's our complete guide.