Clear Audio Concept -- opinions?

[Beeb]

Hi, I am just about to pull the trigger on a new Clear Audio Concept. It's my first audiophile level table, and I wanted one that would play 78's as well. I'm a bit concerned because some people say it's not really designed for 78s and others that it's difficult to switch out the cartridges. I know that the tonearm is delicate and and can potentially cause skips from footsteps, but I'm wondering if that makes playing 78's especially difficult. The slightest warp on a 78 can be a problem, so a table that can keep everything grounded is a plus. Overall, I'm just wondering what people think in general. My other possible route is to get to Rega's, one for LP and 45s, another for 78's (Rega makes a 78 only table, as all of you probably know.) Let those opinions and personal experiences fly! Thanks.

 

[mrwood200]

Hi, I am just about to pull the trigger .. my first audiophile level table, and I wanted one that would play 78's as well. I'm a bit concerned because some people say it's not really designed for 78s and others that it's difficult to switch out the cartridges.

Got a budget? cartridge(s) already selected? preamp have a mono switch?
(TLDR - buy a sl1200GR2)


I am going to agree with 'difficult to switch cartridges' on a fixed headshell arm for 33/45/78 playback. I can't see this working short or long term.
You might be able to make this work by switching out the stylus. For example, I think you could use a Nagaoka cartridge (MP-200?) for 33/45, then swap in 78 stylus as needed:

Just a quick brainstorm example; these specifics may not work, but some combo out there should work.

I have no experience w/Clearaudio TTs, but I do like Technics, and they have removable headshells:

• SL-1200MK7 / SL-1210MK7: The industry-standard DJ turntable features 78 RPM by pressing the 33 and 45 buttons simultaneously.
• SL-1200GR2 / SL-1210GR2: Premium hi-fi models that feature official 33, 45, and 78 RPM support.
• SL-1500C: A premium consumer hi-fi model that has native 33, 45, and 78 RPM speeds.

Sl-1200GR2 is a sweet-ass TT that you can swap in a 'true' 78 cart, or an Ortofon X40.

Depending on your anticipated hourly usage & 33/45/78 distribution, you may want separate TTs.
I would probably go 'inexpensive' on the 78 unit (AT-LP120, dual) & Technics DD for the hifi. YMMV.

 

[Beeb]

I actually have an AT-LP120 right now. It's good for 78's, but I wanted to upgrade to a more audiophile table. Perhaps you're right that the route to go is to keep it for 78's and then have a separate table for 33/45. Thanks for all the info!

 

[trinhsman]

I’ve heard this table at a dealer in Atlanta. Very nice table. I know nothing on the issues you mentioned. I just know how good it sounded.
Good luck.

 

[Beeb]

Thanks. As usual, I'm panicking at the last minute and getting confused. I'm starting to think for the money I should hold out for a Sondek LP12 and play my 78's on a separate table (the technics AT-LP120 that I already have.) Hearing you loved the sound of the Concept its heartening, though. I fear I may not be able to cancel the order for it that I put in. I'm sure it will be pretty amazing in its own right and that I'll adjust. Do love the vintage look of the Sondeck though. So many variables, so little time...

 

[KentTeffeteller]

Hi, I am just about to pull the trigger on a new Clear Audio Concept. It's my first audiophile level table, and I wanted one that would play 78's as well. I'm a bit concerned because some people say it's not really designed for 78s and others that it's difficult to switch out the cartridges. I know that the tonearm is delicate and and can potentially cause skips from footsteps, but I'm wondering if that makes playing 78's especially difficult. The slightest warp on a 78 can be a problem, so a table that can keep everything grounded is a plus. Overall, I'm just wondering what people think in general. My other possible route is to get to Rega's, one for LP and 45s, another for 78's (Rega makes a 78 only table, as all of you probably know.) Let those opinions and personal experiences fly! Thanks.

Pre 1932 "78" RPM records are varying in speed, in stylus size. ClearAudio and Rega aren't really practical 78 RPM machines for many 78 RPM users. There is a superb 78 RPM article series on TNT Audio which covers this topic in far more detail. It's author is a friend of mine, who is an excellent writer. It's in Vintage. It's "On an overgrown Pathe" Pro Tip: For 78 RPM specialists, headshells are very necessary. Hope this gives you more to work with on decision making.