ELP laser turntable

[phishphan]

http://elpj.com

Has anyone seen this before?

A laser turntable. I wonder how it sounds.

IMG_0782.JPG

[doggiehowser]

I think jeromethelang has one

It still is an analog device with lasers reading the grooves but without physical contact. I really like the concept of not wearing out stylus or records.

But the reviews have always been a little less than stellar - I suspect it could be because those reviewed required their own phono preamp - understandable since the way the pits and grooves are read are so different from a moving coil or magnet.

[vintage_tube]

Originally Posted by phishphan

http://elpj.com

Has anyone seen this before?

A laser turntable. I wonder how it sounds.

Attachment 51721

Saw and heard one nearly 20 years ago -- thought they went under. Guess not.

Was okay -- sounded digital to me & not warm & detailed as an equivalent conventional TT/Arm/Cartridge. Records had to be pristine and flat.

I was hopeful he was onto something -- but moved on old school.

Best Sir,

Bob

[doggiehowser]

http://www.theabsolutesound.com/arti...ser-turntable/

Here's an ancient review that I read...

I can sum up my reaction to hearing an LP played back via a beam of light by quoting the eminently quotable Dr. Samuel Johnson, who, when told that a Quaker woman (heavens!) was heard preaching on a street corner of eighteenth-century London, famously replied that this was like a dog walking on its hind legs: “It is not done well, but you are surprised to find it done at all.”

[phishphan]

Originally Posted by doggiehowser

http://www.theabsolutesound.com/arti...ser-turntable/

Here's an ancient review that I read...

That’s a pretty rough review. I didn’t imagine it would sound as good as a traditional TT... but they really beat this unit up.

It’s not for me, and never will be. My vinyl collection is in a closet in my basement. One of these years I’ll expand my rig to incorporate a TT.

[Mikeylee]

I remember when that came out. It seemed like a revolutionary advance instead of a swing and a miss.

I drive my audio dealer crazy by calling the DS Audio DS-002 optical cartridge, which sounds pretty darned good, a laser cartridge!