Basis Ovation Turntable With SME V Magnesium Tonearm

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This 70lb work of art is made entirely of solid aluminum and acrylic. The plinth is suspended and dampened from four adjustable supports. Motor is a belt-driven asynchronous type.

This 'table arrived at the shop in need of some cosmetic work which we addressed. The acrylic was sanded and brought back to a high gloss finish about 99% of original. Polishing black acrylic is an art that still escapes me, but it's very very presentable with only the slightest swirls at a specific angle.

I fitted the best arm in our shop which I had been saving for a special project like this, the venerable and desirable SME V in Magnesium with the built-in dampener.

The result is a truly great performer worthy of a really high-end cartridge like the Sumiko Palo Santo linked below (not included)

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This turntable is working perfectly, speed is spot on, and the arm is complete with all accessories and box.

Also comes with the original manual.

Recommended Cables:

Kimber Kable - Phono Interconnects - Better

Kimber Kable - Flagship Tonearm Interconnects - Best

Stereophile Review:

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Description: Belt-driven LP turntable. Speeds: 331/3, 45rpm. Wow & flutter at 331/3: 0.02% DIN standard. Rumble: –90dB DIN Standard. Speed accuracy: ±0.02%.

Dimensions: 23" W by 16.5" D by 5.25" H. Weight: 70 lbs.

The SkyFi Testing Process for Turntables:

First we try to identify any mechanical issues, particularly in the tonearm bearings.  We check for freedom of movement or any resistance on both the horizontal and vertical range.  There is a quick test for this which involves placing the table on its front edge and allowing the arm to swing freely like a pendulum.  We then make any adjustments necessary to achieve minimal resistance and sometimes adjust the bearing pressure.  On gimbal tonearms we inspect the cone tip with a magnifier.  

We then asses the platter speed by using one of several methods, the most accuse is a playing a test tone on a test record and measuring the frequency out put with a frequency counter or oscilloscope.  We also utilize test equipment to measure the wow and flutter to ensure its within spec.  We do this for all speeds available for that particular model.  Adjustments are then made to achieve proper speed which will vary depending on table drive design.  Some require an adjustment of an internal or external potentiometer, some will require a pulley or motor adjustment.  We also inspect the platter bearing to ensure its properly lubricated keeping in mind that some don't require lubrication at all.

We then inspect the power supply and address any issues with overworked capacitors particularly on Linn and later Thorens machines which tend to need attention.  

On fully mechanical vintage tables like the Thorens TD124 and Garrard 301/401 we will go thought the entire mechanism, replace any worn parts and lubricate all components necessary to ensure smooth operation, speed change and low mechanical noise. 

When fitting a new cartridge we will go through our detailed calibration process which can involve as many as 12 steps depending on the arm design.  We perform this work on our custom turntable calibration rig which was developed in-house.

Some of these steps include:

• Pivot to spindle adjustment

• Tracing force

• Anti-skate

• Tonearm height

• Lifter height

• VTA

• Azimuth

• Stylus Distance and Overhang

We then do a critical listening test using our test records and our test system to ensure proper sonics.