How much does the brand name actually matter?

[Tazio]

The hi fi analogy is quite interesting though. Some people on here are after a turntable like a SME for sheer snob value, or a Linn for image.

Then there are the ones who are after rarity and obscurity. My London Acoustical Developments turntable would suit them nicely. Well made, rare and impossible to get any info or parts for.

However the majority of people are happy with a Technics.

 

[legrandefromage]

The hi fi analogy is quite interesting though. Some people on here are after a turntable like a SME for sheer snob value, or a Linn for image.

Then there are the ones who are after rarity and obscurity. My London Acoustical Developments turntable would suit them nicely. Well made, rare and impossible to get any info or parts for.

However the majority of people are happy with a Technics.

The Linn started out as a very cheap 'budget' deck. A 1210 with an SME arm, now that is a good robust combination.

 

[andrewl]

A 1210 with an SME arm, now that is a good robust combination.

I've tried that combination but even on the finest fillet brazed Ritchey frame the stylus still skips even on the smoothest bike path. I'm also finding the SME arm has insufficient mud clearance for my local trails.

I've been told that a pre Trek Klein should provide a nice strong base with it's stiff fuselage, but I'm thinking a Bradbury Manitou FS (not the fragile Answer versions) may be a better option. Any thoughts??

 

[legrandefromage]

A 1210 with an SME arm, now that is a good robust combination.

I've tried that combination but even on the finest fillet brazed Ritchey frame the stylus still skips even on the smoothest bike path. I'm also finding the SME arm has insufficient mud clearance for my local trails.

I've been told that a pre Trek Klein should provide a nice strong base with it's stiff fuselage, but I'm thinking a Bradbury Manitou FS (not the fragile Answer versions) may be a better option. Any thoughts??

what cartridge are you using?