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In the Forum: Analog Playback
In the Thread: Dynamic viscose stabilization of turntable’s platter.
Post Subject: JA Michell Hydraulic ReferencePosted by Crazy Dave on: 9/21/2022
I was scanning around the net for interesting info and found this thread. Not only do I think this idea is viable, I own a version of this table. It is the J.A. Michell Hydraulic reference (also sold under the Transcriber brand name). It has been around in one form or another since the 60's. Beneath the heavily weighted platter spins a vat of damping fluid. there is a rod that drags in the fluid, adjustable from the side, that you change the speed with. The palter and the table are very dead. You can tap on the table while its playing and it won't mistrack, even with a high compliance cartridge. The arm is reputed to be over complicated fragile junk. I don't know because mine came with a Grace 707. Nice, as low mass vintage arms go, but I changed it for something with more mass. Some people modify it with a modern style flat platter, but I left mine the way it was, because I love the look. The motor is not low powered, like the AR/Linn. It has a good amount of torque, even through the damping fluid. It is a belt drive. Although I have never been able to compare it with any of the super high end tables, the sound is very good to my ears, especially considering the age of the design. Mitchel still supports this table. I bought some parts a few years ago.
Dave
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