Ariston RD80SL vs C J Walker CJ55 vs Linn LP12 vs Systemdek IIX

[jdurr3]

I have owned an Ariston RD80SL and an early Linn LP12 and I currently own a C J Walker CJ55

How does the Systemdek IIX table stack up with these?

Thanks

 

[theophile]

We were hoping you'd buy a Systemdek and tell us!

 

[fiddlefye]

I'd guess the biggest difference in sonics would be related to the choice of arm.

 

[kirk57]

I have that Systemdek but no experience with the others. Given the similar design concept for all 3 tables, I'd hazard a guess that the one that is set up best would be the winner.

As stated above a deciding factor would be the tonearm. FWIW I tried swapping a Rega RB300 with the Profile II arm that came with the Systemdek and ended up putting the Profile back on it. It's that good.

For all of these decks a wall mounted shelf really helps.

If it were me, I'd probably just keep the CJ55 and tweak it. These are all pretty old now and would likely benefit from a clean/lube of the motor and spindle. Maybe a fancy ball bearing for the main bearing or something.

 

[Iansaudio]

It looks like there was 2 variants of the CJ55, one with a long armboard and Sonceboz motor (same as a TD16x), and one with a shorter armboard and a different motor design. I would take the CJ Walker over the Ariston or early linns as the Tufnol platter and wood suspension seem unique and people are very fond of them.