The concept of bracing for turntables is nothing new. We have seen the newer models of Rega TTs' like RP3 and RP6 spot bracings between the main bearing hub and the tonearm base on the top as well as the bottom of the plinth.
What's the purpose of these bracings?
As we know the geometry of bearing hub relative to tonearm is crucial for any turntable. So it's essential, at all times, to maintain a rigid connection between the tonearm and the main bearing hub in which the sub-platter/platter spins.
Adding bracing is one good way to increase the rigidity between these two points. This is especially true for thinner/weaker plinths. It's also beneficial for many old plinths ( e.g. Planar 2/3) which could have been "compressed" (or "sagged") at the main bearing point due to loading over long period of time (e.g sub-platter found touching the plinth even with right size of ball bearing in the bearing hub).
I have used metal alloy(aluminium with magnesium) to design a bracing for my own Rega TT's. It's light weight (to achieve low mass concept) with strength. It's incorporated with my own"honeycomb-like"design for maximum possible rigidity.
Black metal bracing on my P3-24 |
What about natural silvery color bracing? |
In short, the bracings are good for improving the rigidity which directly affects the sonic performance of the turntable. I believe even models with thicker and stronger plinths like P5, P25 would benefit from the added rigidity/strength provided by the bracings.
Karl of Wilmington, Delaware with top and bottom braces on Rega Planar 3 commented:
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16 comments:
Michael you are something else.
Love it!
What is the thickness of the braces?
Hi bacabits,
Nice to hear from you! The brace thickness is about 2mm (+-)
Michael
You don't list that these will work with a P7-I know the main bearing assembly is different-is it possible that one of these will work on a P7?
Hi William,
If the external diameter of the P7 main bearing hub is less than 18.0mm(e.g 17.95mm, then you have not problem using my top bracing.
Best regards,
Michael
Hi Michael,
if the braces are about 2mm thick, do they lift the arm about the same level? I'm asking because I'm thinking about buying a spacer for the arm. Does the bracing work with a spacer or can I replace a spacer with the bracing?
Cheers and thanks a lot.
Timm
Hi Timm,
The top bracing would raise both the tonearm and the sub-platter by 2mm. So you still need another spacer if you want to increase the VTA.
Michael
Hi Michael,
thanks for the quick answer. Now I understand the trick. That helps a lot. So, count on my offer in some time, after I've got my new Ortofon 2M Red going.
Best regards from Germany,
Timm
This looks great and as you say, Rega have implemented on recent decks, but the theorist in me can't help asking: "doesn't it transmit motor noise/rumble straight into the base of the arm?"
I know theory and experience are two separate universes but would love to hear your thoughts!
J
Hi Julian,
Analog is such a complex topic and it's hard to just theorise. I always believe in "hearing is believing!"
Just experiment it yourself to see.
Happy tweaking!
Michael
Hi can you tell me if I need a spacer for my Rega arm , and does the brace fit under the arm and bearing housing when fitting your top brace on a Rega 2019 P2 24V
Hi there, I have a Rega 3. Andbim waiting for the rega 330 arm to come. Im building thus table.. i would like to get your bracing for my table.. Thankypu Walt wrmoore0816@gmail.com
Hi, will this fit a Rega deck with 3-point fixing tonearm? E.g P2 2020
I want to order this material, what is the procedure to buy the top brace for a planar 2?
you can write to me with your shipping address at my email: lpturntables@gmail.com
my top brace can fit all models of P1, P2, and P3 regardless of old or new model.
No change in vta with the top brace as both the tonearm and main bearing are raise simultaneously.
Fits a P9 or no?
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