Tried several turntables but settled on the Alphason Sonata 100s MCS arm and VDH MC10 special cartridge after listening to Linn LP12 Pink Triangle and Roksan Xerxes. The Linn had an Ittok LV111 and Troika and the Pink had an Helius Orion can not remember the cartridge and the Xerxes an Artemis and a VDH 1. I have to say that all the turntables I tried were good but the Alphason was head and shoulders above the others. I went round with a friend who was a musician and after he agreed that the Alphason was clearly better. I had expected to buy the Linn before I went out listening so it just goes to show that you really do need to listen for yourself.

Very natural sound, with tremendous unforced detail

None

Mine is fitted with the "Atlas" power supply and HR100MCS tonearm and a Koetsu cartridge and it sounds terrific. CD is sterile in comparison. SACD is better - but this deck is still close and I have much more software. This turntable has terrific isolation and low "stylus noise". despite three(!) motors, it has no motor noise. The arm is made from one piece titanium tube with silver internal wiring. Until I can afford an SME20, this is my last turntable! Only four stars in comparison to the SME!

Similar Products Used:

Thorens TD160, Garrard 301 & 401

I rate the Sonata as one of the best tt's ever made, consistant in quality on any type of music. Particularly good when used with the Zeta arm, still excellent with the HR100MCS.

Lid quality is awful, but the main unit and power supplies make up for this.

These are rare decks. When used with the Atlas power supply I would say ease of set-up, use and sonic results leave the others begging until much further up the price scale!

Similar Products Used:

I sold my Linn after hearing one, and have never looked back!

Solid sound and image, resistant to external vibrations.

Low torque on my model. Has trouble starting up at times. Lack of speed trimming. Lack of support from Alphason.

A true stress reliever from the sound of 'modern day digital'. Your records become a treasure. Natural rendition of voices and instruments.

Works magic with very good electronics e.g SimaAudio Moon series. I have used it with NAIM & Bryston 4B-ST as well but theyslightly veil its true form.

I bought mine used and the value rating reflects this fact.

Similar Products Used:

Linn LP-12 Valhalla/Ittok