• The move to the new server is done. There are some software and database maintenance updates in process. This has us passing the hat around to help out. We appreciate any donations. Seriously, even a dollar helps. The payment page may be found here - https://www.audiokarma.org/support.html

Arm and Cartridge suggestions for Systemdek IV

C

Craig2016

New Member
Hi

I've recently purchased a rare(?) used Sytemdek IV... except it has no arm!

Now the armboard is currently set up for Linn, Alphason, HELIUS Jelco arms. But i've read somewhere that the deck truly sings with rega arms. So considering to replace the armboard or add a rega conversion unit.

Now my budget is tight, im not wanting to spend that much at all and will purchase everything 2nd hand. But im interested in what people out there suggest. Perhaps firstly for a budget, then mid-range and then perfect partnership.

For the time being i'll be running running this through a NAD 3020i and MS20i Pearls.

Ive been looking at cartridges: Denon DL-160, DL-110, Ortfon Red, Blue...

And arms: (Linn) Basik, Akito, Rega 250/300

Would be really interested in your thoughts.
 
Register to hide this ad
User friendly arms you list would be the Linn arms. The stock arm cables that come with Rega arms make tuning the suspension a nightmare,
and there's no easy way to set VTA. The Alphason in your link would also be suspension issue due to the stiff welding cables coming out at 180deg.
 
Hi

So setting the suspension up properly is an issue with the IV? Thats the first i've heard of that to be honest.

What cartridges work well with the Linn arms?

Thanks
 
No, of course it isn't. The Rega atm is heavier, but that doesn't mean it is as easy to set up as the others. I'm surprised by mms comment.

The Rega arm is better than an Akito. You'll need do get the arm board, but you'll also probably need spacers to set rhe VTA, which is the only slightly finicky bit about setting the arm up. Cartridge dependent, of course.
 
Craig2016 said:
Hi

So setting the suspension up properly is an issue with the IV? Thats the first i've heard of that to be honest.

What cartridges work well with the Linn arms?

Thanks
Click to expand...

any suspended deck is affected by the arm cable "dressing", as it becomes a "4th spring". The cables need to be pretty much inert. the cable should exit the arm at 90deg and be configured (looped) so as not to add any resistance, or restorative force to the suspension. The arm cables have to be very floppy, and not stiff as those pictured in your links. The factory arm cables on a Rega arm are anything but "floppy", and as mentioned, exit at 180.
The Linn Basic Plus would be minimal arm, the Akito or Akito ll are fine arms. And they play any medium to high compliance carts.
Again.........in the cart (mm /mi type) there is 600 feet of fine as frog hair wire that has no issue getting the signal out of the cart through the tonearm. From there to the preamp is usually 3 feet. It doesn't have to be welding cable to carry signal 3 more feet.
 
wow... Marcmorin, I think for my requirements your advice is very technical and specialist. But thanks for your recommendations of Linn arms.

Washers for a rega arm doesnt sound like a big deal. I guess its going to boil down to what bargain I see on ebay. If I see a cheap Rega i'll get that and a conversion plate for the armboard. I could always make a new one if there are any issues.

Thanks
 
I've been using a Basik Plus (off and on) for 25 years now. Never a problem. It's the only separate arm I've ever owned so I can't offer a comparison. However I can tell you that if you think you may be trying out different cartridges and platter mats at all, you'll appreciate the adjustable arm pillar (VTA). Since your current board is for Linn mount, you may want to give it a try.

Mine must be from the last run, I got it as a dealer demo unit just when the Akito came out. I understand on some earlier versions, the decoupling "rubber" in the counterweight can deteriorate. Not too hard to fix but this should be checked and any issue reflected in the price. The other common problem is that Linn famously advised tightening the cartridge mounting screws very hard. Later they had to admit that this can ruin the bearings so you're supposed to remove the arm from the TT for cartridge changes. Well, maybe Linn dealers do it that way, but not your average owner.

Finally, it's a little lighter than a Rega (lower effective mass). Around 10 to 11 grams is all that Linn ever published, to my knowledge. Which means e.g. that the Ortofon OM series is actually a better match than their current lineup. Also a better fit physically. I believe the Red etc. will only fit with a pretty serious bend in the headshell wires and tags.
 
IIRC, the Profile II arms where stock with Systemdek tables. I've been using that arm on my Technics SP 25 for the past 30 years. A great arm. Add some silicone damping to the lift mechanism for a smooth decent.

Forgot to mention, try the Shure V15 Type IV cartridge for great sounding LP's.
 
Hi

I wont be trying out different cartridges but am after a source that has a wide open sound stage, and focus on mid range and silky highs. Deep flabby bass I do not want. ANd no bass at all is also not wanted. I am really happy with my amp and speakers and running my laptop through the Aux the sound is punchy, fast, smooth and detailed but organic. As along as I can find an arm / cartridge combo that can do this then great. Thats why I was focusing on the Denon 160 and Ortofon Blue in the rega. Anyone one know of something similar for Linn arms?

In listen to most genres except classical.. so folk guitar, vocal based music, jazz, rock, metal, rap, dance, electronic.

I would like everthing to sound as natural and musical as possible. If thats possible!

Thanks
 
I7
jblmar said:
IIRC, the Profile II arms where stock with Systemdek tables. I've been using that arm on my Technics SP 25 for the past 30 years. A great arm. Add some silicone damping to the lift mechanism for a smooth decent.

Forgot to mention, try the Shure V15 Type IV cartridge for great sounding LP's.
Click to expand...

I'd second the opinion that the Profile II arms are overlooked. They do pop up on Ebay occasionally as people change them for something else. I found I preferred the Profile II to a Rega RB300, on my Systemdek IIX (entirely different table than the OP's IV, it appears)
 
I see the 3020i is spec'd as 300pF on the phono input, which is surprisingly high. Should sound best with a cart that wants to see high capacitance, like a Shure. Can anybody confirm this?
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom