Equipment Recommendations - The Home For New System and Upgrade Advice

displayname said:
I was hoping you're really gone overboard. It's totally insane, but I'm still curious to try it after positive reviews from the few people in DFW that have them.
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I’m curious to try something like the Shunyata Cable Cradle, but $100 USD wall plate just … I can’t seem to swallow that price.

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Anyone know of something similar for $25ish, maybe up to $40 if it looks nice.
 
SnowmaNick said:
I’m curious to try something like the Shunyata Cable Cradle, but $100 USD wall plate just … I can’t seem to swallow that price.

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Anyone know of something similar for $25ish, maybe up to $40 if it looks nice.
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Honestly with a lot of brands I start to prejudge their equipment based on my limited experience with them.

Here’s what I have to say and Shunyata: Any system using a lot of Shunyata gear has never impressed me, and it impresses me even less when I hear the price. The only exception is that I have heard a couple great systems with the Everest power conditioner. No matching cables, just the conditioner. It’s also $10k. I’ve heard far more exciting systems (to my ear) that are running off of Audioquest Niagara 7000 and 5000, or a combination of Niagara units.

I have no science. I haven’t A/B’d them. I have just noticed that when a big bucks system impresses me, it usually doesn’t have any Shun, and often does have AQ. Take that for what it’s worth.

PS - I’d imagine that outlet cover could be 3D printed.
 
displayname said:
Honestly with a lot of brands I start to prejudge their equipment based on my limited experience with them.

Here’s what I have to say and Shunyata: Any system using a lot of Shunyata gear has never impressed me, and it impresses me even less when I hear the price. The only exception is that I have heard a couple great systems with the Everest power conditioner. No matching cables, just the conditioner. It’s also $10k. I’ve heard far more exciting systems (to my ear) that are running off of Audioquest Niagara 7000 and 5000, or a combination of Niagara units.

I have no science. I haven’t A/B’d them. I have just noticed that when a big bucks system impresses me, it usually doesn’t have any Shun, and often does have AQ. Take that for what it’s worth.

PS - I’d imagine that outlet cover could be 3D printed.
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Some people love them, I’ve tried a couple of their Venom and Alpha line and found them to be a little “dead” sounding to my ears. Absolutely true that they filter noise, and provide “black” backgrounds, but, maybe that filtering saps some of the dynamics and small details from the music. And, similar to you, I use mainly AQ (I buy them used), so it may be what I’m used to hearing.

As for 3D printing, interesting but I have less than zero knowledge on how to go about that. Is there a website that you can request designs from and they print it for you?
 
SnowmaNick said:
Some people love them, I’ve tried a couple of their Venom and Alpha line and found them to be a little “dead” sounding to my ears. Absolutely true that they filter noise, and provide “black” backgrounds, but, maybe that filtering saps some of the dynamics and small details from the music. And, similar to you, I use mainly AQ (I buy them used), so it may be what I’m used to hearing.

As for 3D printing, interesting but I have less than zero knowledge on how to go about that. Is there a website that you can request designs from and they print it for you?
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I have an acquaintance that owns a 3D print shop in Golden. I can connect you, if you like.
 
kvetcha said:
I actually got into the pilot program, so I've got an RT-87 on the way.

Changes from the earlier models:
  • Dual-Layer Vibration-isolated Plinth, with the motor installed on the first layer and the tonearm on the second.
  • A Straight 9" Carbon-Fiber Tonearm
  • Pre-installed VM95-ML
  • 22mm, 4.1lb Acrylic Platter
  • 33, 45, and 78 RPM playback
  • Servo-controlled DC motor with a declared w/f spec of 0.065%, slightly improved from the RT-85.
  • $699.99
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I just got an email about the RT-86, the highlights from the email

  • Carbon Fiber Tonearm – Ultra-light and resonance-resistant, with adjustable VTA for precise tracking
  • Microline Stylus – AT-VM95ML cartridge for outstanding clarity, channel separation, and low distortion
  • 3lb Metal Platter – Delivers consistent RPM, speed control, and auto-stop functionality
  • High-Mass MDF Plinth – Real wood finish and damping feet for superb vibration isolation
  • $599
I'm not really looking to upgrade from the RT-85 but if it made sense I would. No Acrylic Platter at that price is making me think no. Even with a 15% rebate
 
bdm105 said:
I just got an email about the RT-86, the highlights from the email

  • Carbon Fiber Tonearm – Ultra-light and resonance-resistant, with adjustable VTA for precise tracking
  • Microline Stylus – AT-VM95ML cartridge for outstanding clarity, channel separation, and low distortion
  • 3lb Metal Platter – Delivers consistent RPM, speed control, and auto-stop functionality
  • High-Mass MDF Plinth – Real wood finish and damping feet for superb vibration isolation
  • $599
I'm not really looking to upgrade from the RT-85 but if it made sense I would. No Acrylic Platter at that price is making me think no. Even with a 15% rebate
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Interesting there wasn't as much interest in the RT-86. Guess that's a valuable piece of feedback in and of itself.
 
bdm105 said:
Because I just got the email?
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Well, there were only 6 of each available, and when I was invited I had the choice of which one to buy. The 87 sold out pretty quickly, so if they're still sending emails for the pre-production RT-86 I'm wondering if that means most of the interest was in the flagship model.
 
kvetcha said:
Well, there were only 6 of each available, and when I was invited I had the choice of which one to buy. The 87 sold out pretty quickly, so if they're still sending emails for the pre-production RT-86 I'm wondering if that means most of the interest was in the flagship model.
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Oh yeah that makes sense. I'm not going to get it. The metal plater really bugs me
 
Buying input request:
I have a lead on a reasonably priced and local Puritan power conditioner. I've heard systems with these units, it is more advanced than my current power conditioner, and it would honestly fit better in my rack.

However, I've been really considering saving up for a VPI. This power conditioner would likely push the new turntable into a 2026 purchase. Possibly longer if prices increase or new models are introduced.

Should I jump on a good deal of a quality piece, or keep my eye on the turntable horizon?
 
displayname said:
Buying input request:
I have a lead on a reasonably priced and local Puritan power conditioner. I've heard systems with these units, it is more advanced than my current power conditioner, and it would honestly fit better in my rack.

However, I've been really considering saving up for a VPI. This power conditioner would likely push the new turntable into a 2026 purchase. Possibly longer if prices increase or new models are introduced.

Should I jump on a good deal of a quality piece, or keep my eye on the turntable horizon?
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Unless you’re having power issues I’d go for the VPI.
 
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displayname said:
Buying input request:
I have a lead on a reasonably priced and local Puritan power conditioner. I've heard systems with these units, it is more advanced than my current power conditioner, and it would honestly fit better in my rack.

However, I've been really considering saving up for a VPI. This power conditioner would likely push the new turntable into a 2026 purchase. Possibly longer if prices increase or new models are introduced.

Should I jump on a good deal of a quality piece, or keep my eye on the turntable horizon?
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You would probably get a larger sonic difference with a new turntable than a new power conditioner. I’d vote for the VPI.
 
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