Got a very nice set of Ultra SS and the LPI record weight from Ivan. I've been enjoying this combination for a week. First, I definitely like the LPI over the 2x as expensive Clearaudio Statement weight - Ivan was dead on about that. It looks awesome, and the feel in the hand as the pockets "jingle" is just way too cool.
Sonically, I've been enjoying the best sound in my life - by quite a large margin compared to past years. Most of that is recently getting the main components & their mix fully dialed in, but the Stillpoints seem to be a nice bit of icing to the cake. Better clarity, more bass weight and definition, but also somehow more musical than before with a natural warmth. I hear absolutely no trace of hard edges or sharpness. I've read great, almost glowing reports of the Ultra SS paired to Innovation series turntables, and I'm happy to confirm that reputation is very well founded. And this is on a Critical Mass Maxxum rack, so to eek out more performance on top of that is extremely impressive. Now I contemplate treating other components...
If you're thinking about these, message Ivan (Subscribe if you haven't already) and pick up some!
Here is my love; Koetsu Coralstone mounted now but I believe I have a Blue Lace currently awaiting me at the office! Gonna be a FUN weekend!! PS thanks to Ivan too for the AmScope rec on these forums.
