Like many things, these Lencos have a ‘cult’ following - the level of mods that people do to these is quite incredible. The idler drive mechanism effectively makes record speed infinitely adjustable between 33 and 78 rpms. Most idler drive mechanisms are frowned upon but the fans suggest there is something different about these - I can’t remember what it is though! There is indeed something very ‘Swiss’ about the engineering.
Interesting point you made about inflation. Mentioned on the same invoice, a Solavox (Comet home brand?) Stereo 30 amp (£35.95) and matching speakers (£29.95) - a whole system for just less than £120. Interestingly, the latest Rega System One (no doubt much better) is yours for £999 - IMO that is a bargain for an all British built hifi system. One thing is for certain, the Goldring dec was/is much more capable than the other equipment of the time - post repair (new v-blocks/tone arm rewire) it now sounds better than ever.
I’ve got an old Gl75 in my loft. I thought about replacing the v-blocks, tone arm and fitting a heavy plinth to it but just couldn’t decide if it was worth the hassle or the cost. Could I ever manage to get it sounding better than my Gyrodec…?
For many years I used my 301 without a dust cover, but a few years back found someone online who could make custom sized acrylic lids including the slot I needed for the R200s bias adjuster.
I’ve been very pleased with it, but it’s always removed when playing.
After spending the last 15 years or so in the loft (the deck, not me ) , the lockdown provided impetus to strip down and rebuild my TD160. First run since completion - it actually produces agreeable sounds from records!
Thanks, it is a nice feeling. My father is pianist and has a lovely Bluthner Boudoir grand piano (1923 vintage) but that is not going anywhere - this is a good conciliation
if you have the opportunity, take some time to listen to the Nouvelle Platine. I think it’s actually a little better balanced than the original Palatine
In 2003, I have almost bought the New Verdier La Platine ( Nouvelle platine Verdier). But it was a bit bulky for my room . I finally bought an SME 20/2a. But the Verdier was my dream too.
Here a picture of the “ Nouvelle platine Verdier “
Thanks. Their site is so bad made that it’s difficult to find the picture. Yes indeed, you are right. I didn’t remember if I wanted to buy the Platine Verdier or Nouvelle Platine .
Maybe the last one.
The problem is that you need a very special rack to accommodate the turntable and it’s deported motor. It takes a lot of space.
The dealer in Paris have still one of them. Some parts needed to be upgraded in Germany to give better results.
I have had the Platine Verdier since 2000 with the Moerch DP6 arm with the 12” Transcriptor arm with KleosSL. It has a big sound, does the PRaT thing very well, and sounds great through the Superline/Supercap. It holds its settings and it not fiddly at all. The opposed ring magnet suspension is like the poor man’s air bearing and was unique for a long time. Almost no dealers. No real US distribution. And Mr. Verdier passed away a couple of years ago. I have resisted the tape drive upgrade but we did rebuild it with Herbie’s feet and platter mat. It does not belong on the top shelf of my brawn stack but it works pretty well and is a little heavy for a wall shelf. If you want to visit when we are free to travel, get in touch. sc