Thirty three and a third.

[Irons]

The DL-304 (if you can find one anymore) and the DL-301II are reportedly doing fine in the Improved, and I can attest to that for the 304. Both are quite high compliant (14 @100 Hz, say 23 @10 Hz), and tracking 90 um at 1,2 g. So pretty soft and not too much energy to the arm. I am going to cheat and soft mount it with an Origin Live Cartridge Enabler to see if there is a chance to calm it down a wee bit more. If not I'll have to bite the bullet: Ortofon 2M Black or the unsung, cheaper and just as good Super OM40. Other options could be a Soundsmith tipped Grace or a Soundsmith. We'll see. I'd have to get another phono amp for Grace and Soundsmith. My MM is fixed at 40 dB gain and 150 pF load, perfect for Ortofons but not much else.

The TD 125 superseded the TD124 Mk. II. I love the looks of this simple straight sided plinth. I've thought that Tandberg must have used the same designer for their receivers at the time, e.g. the TR2075. It's also a better, quieter turntable than the 124. Get a TD125 Mk. II before people find out how good it is and prices soar. Mechanically it's just about indestructible. I'm of course on the lookout for a J-shaped SME with detachable headshell.



This pic shows what's done to the plinth/cabinet. The glued birch ply along the sides support the original chassis mounting blocks, and the  large corner braces are screwed on. Fat sorbothane feet. I've given it a new mains cable since this shot.



I like the optics a lot. A domestic machine.

- Finally they've made a machine that's useful.
(Robert Redford in Out of Africa, presenting a gramophone playing Mozart as a gift to  Meryl Streep.)

Making a note on the virtues of early Dvorak symphonies. Thanks.

I guess the versatility of Denon cartridges is what made them so popular. Tweakable too with a wooden body conversion available on eBay I recall. I have an Ortofon 2M Black but would not recommend as a purchase. Works a treat in my SME 3009 and the most detailed cartridge, MM or MC I have heard, but, and it is a big but, surface noise is also the most highlighted I have come across. Switching, I'm shocked at the increase.
I'm coming over as right old curmudgeon but I would not let Sorbothane  anywhere near my TT. I purchased four large pucks which under my Garrard killed the sound stone dead. Waste not, want not, I put them under my Tannoys and again poor results. You have gone to a lot of trouble making your table stiff, strong and firm to eliminate vibrations and then placing it on a wobbly base.

BTW. SME manufacture a stock part to add mass to their 3009 tonearms. I cannot vouch for it's effectiveness as not tried the tweak.   

[Valentino]

I have a wobbly house... The idea is to swallow as much wobble as possible before it reaches a stiff cabinet that supports the sprung 10 kg of the TD 125. Your Garrard is a real old school 301/401? In that case very different, more like a TD 124.

Have seen body conversions of the DL-103 with variants, not the 300 series.

Have read other reports of high surface noise from the 2M Black. As of now I'll use the DL-301II with this Origin Live Cartridge Enabler and no rubber cushions on the SME base, and a Corian arm board.

As for the general killing of sound my stereo is full of such things. DSP, Class D, SMPS. Speakers on soft feet, and bitumen damped driver baskets.

[aligreto]

Dvorak 3rd Symphony.

Reading posts on GMG quite often one sticks in the old memory bank. Only a couple of weeks ago, forgive me I didn't note the member's name, made the point that it does not make sense that the Dvorak early symphonies are not held in the esteem of the later although every bit as good. My repeated playing of the 3rd confirms this. A symphony musical to it's fingertips!

I agree wholeheartedly with all of that and I would also dare to suggest that Kertesz helps quite a lot in this regard here. He is one conductor that I have long admired and appreciated.

[aligreto]

The Melodiya label is one that I like to explore.

Russian Sacred Choral Music [Arkhipova/Polyansky]





I have always found Eastern European and Russian Orthodox sacred music to be wonderfully engaging and very emotionally meaningful and rewarding. When presented properly it can portray a deep sense of devotion. It is certainly presented in the best possible way on this recording. Irina Arkhipova has a wonderful voice and the USSR Ministry of Culture Chamber Choir is excellent.

[aligreto]

I came across this article recently while searching for something. To a seasoned collector all of this will be perfectly obvious. However, just in case there is someone lurking here who is starting a vinyl collection or augmenting one they just might glean some useful information from it.


Why You Should Double-Sleeve Your Record Collection
Davey Ferchow posted July 5, 2022

Accumulating, organising, and maintaining a record collection can be quite the investment, but if you're in it for the long haul, double-sleeving your records is the only way to go. Double-sleeving is the use of both protective inner and outer record sleeves. Inner sleeves house your vinyl and easily slide inside your record covers. Outer sleeves slide over your record jackets and protect all the contents within.

Companies like Music Record Shop produce various types of inner and outer sleeves that help protect your collection. Using both types of sleeves is an inexpensive and simple way to make sure your records always look and sound great. Below, you'll learn more about the ways these slim plastic wonders can make a world of difference.


Double-Sleeving Prevents Unnecessary Wear to Your Vinyl:

Outer sleeves may seem like a no-brainer, but inner sleeves are also essential if you're looking to keep your vinyl in pristine condition. Without inner sleeves, your records could suffer from scuffs and scratches as you slide them in and out of their jackets. Most new records come with a paper inner sleeve and these are better than having no sleeve at all. However, if you are looking to take an additional step to prevent scuffs, you may want to upgrade to a poly-lined paper sleeve or an anti-static plastic sleeve.

Inner and Outer Sleeves Keep Dust from Getting in Grooves:

In addition to scratches and other blemishes, dust can have a negative impact on the way your records sound. If you use inner and outer sleeves, you have two lines of defence as dust tries to infiltrate your record collection. If you're looking to take things a step further, a classic 3mil sleeve or extra thick 4mil sleeve will provide you with additional peace of mind.

Record Jackets Are Best Protected with Both Types of Sleeves:

Outer sleeves obviously protect your record jackets, but inner sleeves also help. The edges of your records can cause wear and tear and may eventually cause seam splits if you play your records a lot or move often. Housing your vinyl in inner sleeves will provide an additional layer of protection for your record covers.

Inner and Outer Sleeves Provide More Storage Options:

If your vinyl is protected by inner sleeves, it opens up another storage possibility. Instead of keeping every record inside its jacket, you can store your records outside of their jackets, but inside their plastic outer sleeves. This allows you to quickly access your vinyl and helps keep your record covers from developing ring wear. This is also a great option if you are planning a big move and want to make sure your record covers don't get damaged in transit.

Records Retain Value When You Double-Sleeve:

Taking care of your records provides a better listening experience and, visually, few things are as pleasing to the eye as a near-mint record. You can derive a great sense of pride from a clean record collection, and double sleeving is one of the most efficient ways to maintain your vinyl's current grading. If you ever find yourself in a pinch, you know you can sell your double-sleeved records at prices that prove your passion was actually a wise investment. This is also a great point to raise if you are trying to justify your collecting habits to significant others or family members.

[Irons]

The Melodiya label is one that I like to explore.

Russian Sacred Choral Music [Arkhipova/Polyansky]





I have always found Eastern European and Russian Orthodox sacred music to be wonderfully engaging and very emotionally meaningful and rewarding. When presented properly it can portray a deep sense of devotion. It is certainly presented in the best possible way on this recording. Irina Arkhipova has a wonderful voice and the USSR Ministry of Culture Chamber Choir is excellent.

On a guided tour of St Petersburg our group were shuffled into a church. Not having a religious bone in my body I was not expecting much. We were directed to sit down on benches and a small male choir walked out in front of our group. They sung a cappella and it was the most beautiful sounds I have heard in my life. Never to be forgotten.

I came across this article recently while searching for something. To a seasoned collector all of this will be perfectly obvious. However, just in case there is someone lurking here who is starting a vinyl collection or augmenting one they just might glean some useful information from it.


Why You Should Double-Sleeve Your Record Collection
Davey Ferchow posted July 5, 2022

Accumulating, organising, and maintaining a record collection can be quite the investment, but if you're in it for the long haul, double-sleeving your records is the only way to go. Double-sleeving is the use of both protective inner and outer record sleeves. Inner sleeves house your vinyl and easily slide inside your record covers. Outer sleeves slide over your record jackets and protect all the contents within.

Companies like Music Record Shop produce various types of inner and outer sleeves that help protect your collection. Using both types of sleeves is an inexpensive and simple way to make sure your records always look and sound great. Below, you'll learn more about the ways these slim plastic wonders can make a world of difference.


Double-Sleeving Prevents Unnecessary Wear to Your Vinyl:

Outer sleeves may seem like a no-brainer, but inner sleeves are also essential if you're looking to keep your vinyl in pristine condition. Without inner sleeves, your records could suffer from scuffs and scratches as you slide them in and out of their jackets. Most new records come with a paper inner sleeve and these are better than having no sleeve at all. However, if you are looking to take an additional step to prevent scuffs, you may want to upgrade to a poly-lined paper sleeve or an anti-static plastic sleeve.

Inner and Outer Sleeves Keep Dust from Getting in Grooves:

In addition to scratches and other blemishes, dust can have a negative impact on the way your records sound. If you use inner and outer sleeves, you have two lines of defence as dust tries to infiltrate your record collection. If you're looking to take things a step further, a classic 3mil sleeve or extra thick 4mil sleeve will provide you with additional peace of mind.

Record Jackets Are Best Protected with Both Types of Sleeves:

Outer sleeves obviously protect your record jackets, but inner sleeves also help. The edges of your records can cause wear and tear and may eventually cause seam splits if you play your records a lot or move often. Housing your vinyl in inner sleeves will provide an additional layer of protection for your record covers.

Inner and Outer Sleeves Provide More Storage Options:

If your vinyl is protected by inner sleeves, it opens up another storage possibility. Instead of keeping every record inside its jacket, you can store your records outside of their jackets, but inside their plastic outer sleeves. This allows you to quickly access your vinyl and helps keep your record covers from developing ring wear. This is also a great option if you are planning a big move and want to make sure your record covers don't get damaged in transit.

Records Retain Value When You Double-Sleeve:

Taking care of your records provides a better listening experience and, visually, few things are as pleasing to the eye as a near-mint record. You can derive a great sense of pride from a clean record collection, and double sleeving is one of the most efficient ways to maintain your vinyl's current grading. If you ever find yourself in a pinch, you know you can sell your double-sleeved records at prices that prove your passion was actually a wise investment. This is also a great point to raise if you are trying to justify your collecting habits to significant others or family members.

All sensible, Fergus. I use Covers 33 which I have found to be a reliable Company.

https://www.covers33.co.uk/ 

[aligreto]

All sensible, Fergus. I use Covers 33 which I have found to be a reliable Company.

https://www.covers33.co.uk/

Thank you for that link. I will investigate it later.

[Irons]

Spinning

[aligreto]

Spinning

I have not heard Klemperer M7.

[Irons]

I have not heard Klemperer M7.

A tad controversial reading I believe, but as always Klemperer is a law to himself.

Spinning

[aligreto]

A tad controversial reading I believe, but as always Klemperer is a law to himself.

Perhaps a good enough reason in itself to get a listen to it 

[Irons]

Perhaps a good enough reason in itself to get a listen to it 

Spot on. Have you heard his Berlioz's Symphonic Fantastique? Not a type of work to associate with old Klemps but in fact very good.

[aligreto]

Song of the Birds and other pieces





This is a pleasant selection of works played by Pablo Casals. The accompaniment ranges from full orchestra to piano.

[aligreto]

Have you heard his Berlioz's Symphonic Fantastique? Not a type of work to associate with old Klemps but in fact very good.

I have not. Another one to add to the list!

[Irons]

Song of the Birds and other pieces





This is a pleasant selection of works played by Pablo Casals. The accompaniment ranges from full orchestra to piano.

Iconic cover image of Casals complete with trilby in hand.

Spinning

Another evocative cover.



E. J. and Peers enjoying a view from what is likely to be Hergest Ridge.

[aligreto]

Iconic cover image of Casals complete with trilby in hand.

Yes it is. Here is a better reproduction of it for those who may not be familiar with it





Interestingly, here is another shot most likely from the same photoshoot

[aligreto]

Another evocative cover.



E. J. and Peers enjoying a view from what is likely to be Hergest Ridge.

Yes, I do like that one also. Quite atmospheric!

[aligreto]

Four Concertos of the Neapolitan School





From another series that I would like to collect more of.

[Irons]

Four Concertos of the Neapolitan School





From another series that I would like to collect more of.

Fascinating history behind L'Oiseau-Lyre.   https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/%C3%89ditions_de_l%27Oiseau-Lyre

Edit: There is a story not included in the Wiki page that Hanson-Dyer produced cash from her handbag to pay musicians off after a recording session. 

[vandermolen]

Iconic cover image of Casals complete with trilby in hand.

Spinning

Another evocative cover.



E. J. and Peers enjoying a view from what is likely to be Hergest Ridge.

Despite the less than perfect playing that recording is easily the most moving of Moeran's Cello Concerto.