Artisan Fidelity "Achates Idler Drive" Turntable

MylesBAstor

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Apr 20, 2010
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These drives are often mistaken for one another due to their obvious similarities, as they both couple a spinning "rim" of sorts to accomplish the end goal, it can be confusing at times to discern between them. :)

The difference lies in the mechanical component coupling, whereas the rim drive couples the motor directly to the platter periphery by means of direct motor to rotating spindle contact, the idler drive couples the rotating motor spindle to a passive rubberized wheel which once engaged provides the rotational force and simultaneous secondary point of contact at the platter side which sends the platter into motion.

Chris, the VPI rim drive is decoupled from the twin motors and in addition, also acts as a flywheel.
 

Christopher T

Industry Expert
Dec 4, 2012
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Chris, the VPI rim drive is decoupled from the twin motors and in addition, also acts as a flywheel.

Myles, Yes, a keen observation, traditionally, in my view this layout would be considered an idler drive but in this instance referred to as rim drive, perhaps the idler connotation was simply not preferable to the designer. "You say tomato I say tomahto...." :b
 

MylesBAstor

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Apr 20, 2010
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Myles, Yes, a keen observation, traditionally, in my view this layout would be considered an idler drive but in this instance referred to as rim drive, perhaps the idler connotation was simply not preferable to the designer. "You say tomato I say tomahto...." :b

The Lenco design didn't go unnoticed -- and in fact, the sound of which, inspired Harry Weisfeld to build his "version." :) And the sonic differences between the belt and rim drives are very pronounced.
 

Christopher T

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Dec 4, 2012
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But do they use them on Lencos or Garrads?

Worldcat, To the best of my knowledge, we are the first to design a modern precision inverted bearing solution for the Garrard 301 and Lenco L75 platforms.
 

Christopher T

Industry Expert
Dec 4, 2012
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Do you have pictures of the table itself? With the inverted bearing.

Worldcat, Nothing official yet by way of photographs but here is a sneak peak.

IMG_6520 copy 1200 .JPG
 

Christopher T

Industry Expert
Dec 4, 2012
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Also, See below regarding the PM about the Achates inverted CNC platter underside. IMG_6304 1200 webcopy.JPG
 

Worldcat

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May 30, 2012
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That is a serious platter! I wonder if it sounds as good as it looks, would/could be amazing.
 

Christopher T

Industry Expert
Dec 4, 2012
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IMG_0758 copy 2.JPG IMG_1008 copy.JPG IMG_0775 copy.JPG IMG_0806 copy.JPG



Lin, Shown is the bead blasted option for Achates inverted modular platter - finish African Padauk

First production run is nearly finished.
 

Christopher T

Industry Expert
Dec 4, 2012
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IMG_1133 copy.JPG
 

Christopher T

Industry Expert
Dec 4, 2012
75
13
315
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Bruce, thanks.

World's first inverted modular bearing/platter design based on the legendary Swiss Lenco L75 idler drive geometry.

Entire line of modular platter upper material substitutions to be announced.
 

MylesBAstor

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Better looking than any digital piece I've ever seen too! :)
 

mep

Member Sponsor & WBF Founding Member
Apr 20, 2010
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Can someone please explain to me how copper makes a good interface for a record to sit on??
 

Worldcat

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May 30, 2012
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Copper will give it more damping. It will be a matter of choice on which platter one would like best, be it copper, aluminum, stainless, and or magnesium to name a few. If you notice the two screw holes on top i believe that platter (top plate) will be interchangeable. You will have to ask Chris more on the topic. He will be able to answer better than me.
 

No Regrets

Well-Known Member
Jan 24, 2012
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Copper will give it more damping. It will be a matter of choice on which platter one would like best, be it copper, aluminum, stainless, and or magnesium to name a few. If you notice the two screw holes on top i believe that platter (top plate) will be interchangeable. You will have to ask Chris more on the topic. He will be able to answer better than me.

Wow, this is a fantastic looking table! Anybody here own this table? Tell us what it sounds like….how does it compare to other tables you've had….how is the speed stability? etc, etc.
 

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