PTP Audio Solid9

[joshnich]

I have moved on from my clearaudio champion level 2 to a ptp audio solid9 and I cannot be happier.
I have owned a number of quality belt drive TT's including the most recent clearaudio, a couple VPI's and recently a heavily modded Linn LP 12. None come close to what this superb TT delivers.
I have owned a TD 124 in my past and it delivered the drive and musicality ( is that a word) but I could never eliminate the rumble. In addition to the rumble the TD 124 was mechanically problematic.
The Solid9 is a refurbished heavy platter Lenco with lots of modern upgrades. Peter Reinders builds a new stainless steel top plate that separates the motor from the bearing assembly. The bearing is also significantly improved. This is then mounted in a corian plinth. The result is all the drive of an idler wheel without the issues. The high torque motor drives the platter so there is not cartridge drag. The result is music that is alive and engaging to a level not experienced with the other tt's. I am using a shelter 5000 on an origin live encounter tonearm to great effect.
The elimination of cartridge drag eliminates congestion that can result with belt drive tt's. The violin section becomes alive without the smear that again can occur with belt drives. Acoustic instruments of all kinds just sing. Decay and presence is unbelievable.
If anyone is thinking of upgrading tts you need to consider this. I am attaching a couple of reviews. One from Art Dudley and the other from 6 Moons. It should also be noted that Arthur Salvadore recently replaced his Forsell with a similar idler drive tt. Check out his take on idler drives as well.

6moons audio reviews: PTP Audio Solid12

Listening #126 | Stereophile.com