SkyFi Audio — Attraction in Glen Rock

I was researching direct drive turntables for two years, and I found Fernando’s video of the Technics SL-1200-G on his SkyFi YouTube channel. I found his overview to be one of the top reviews regarding the advantages and the quality of the build with Technics newest technology the SL-1200-G turntable. He also posted an excellent video of the Technics factory tour, this video shows the manufacturing process and the TQM methods used to build the SL-1200-G.

I’ve been using a belt drive turntable for the past 10 years, and it was one of the top units at its price level. During my research into direct drive turntables vs belt drive, I discovered a small but important issue with belt drive turntables; this issue is called stylus drag. This stylus drag takes place during the peaks or higher output bass sections on a vinyl record. Belt drive turntables cannot always maintain 33-1/3 during these peaks; which can cause smearing, and distortion.

I decided to give the Technics SL-1200-G a try and see if the performance would eclipse my belt drive unit. Fernando and his team at SkyFi have a very extensive cartridge alignment process. I decided to move forward with their 12 step Premium Calibration process. I believe that the cartridge setup is paramount regarding the over all performance of the turntable playback quality. The $390.00 12 step premium calibration process is worth every penny, if your goal is to have the highest level vinyl fidelity playback; this is a game changer for me.

The combination of the Technics SL-1200-G and SkyFi’s calibration process, has improved my vinyl listening experience on many levels. The Ortofon Cadenza Bronze, was used on my belt drive system. I decided to use a new Cadenza Bronze that I had for a future turntable, and used it on my new Technics. The performance was pretty amazing considering that this is a new cartridge and not even broken in yet.

The sound stage was huge, the imaging was dead center, and the level of detail was beyond what I previously had with my belt drive system. The depth of the sound stage was larger, and the bass was cleaner and deeper. I was very happy with this upgrade, and I’m looking forward to future listening sessions after the break-in period.

SkyFi’s packaging methods were excellent, they took extra care to make sure that the turntable was shipped safely, and would make it to me in perfect condition. They packed the OEM shipping box into larger outer shipping box, and used Sealed Air’s foam-in-place custom cushioning system; this ensure a safe trip to my home. The cartridge was packaged in a nice custom wooden box, ready to be installed on the arm. I only had to install the counter weight and complete the balancing of the tone arm, and choose the correct vertical tracking force and install the plater. They sent me a three page outline of their 12 step calibration system; outlining the process and every detail covered.

I highly recommend the move to the Technics SL-1200-G direct drive turntable, and to have the premium calibration process completed with your cartridge...

Hello Again

My order #3576 [McIntosh C2200 Preamp] has arrived. I thought I would add this... I played my existing system for about 30 minutes... just to get my ear tuned to what the system sounds like... I then integrated the McIntosh C2200... set the volume to about 40.... set the balance to centered and set the tone to neutral.... then I put on The Beatles'... Rubber Soul... my god what a difference... the bass was very pronounced and the midrange gave a depth to the sound where I could have reached in and grabbed McCartney by the throat... the highs... were actually high....potentially illegally so.... the improvement in clarity to the sound is amazing... I give all due credit to McIntosh and I give you folks credit for updating the Preamp for sale and describing its status very professionally for me the customer.

What an amazing improvement... and I replaced a very nice McCormack preamp with the C2200.... I am absolutely tickled with the great sounds... the preamp was just as you described... other companies could take a lesson from you folks about business integrity... as they say in Australia... GOOD ON YA...!!

Just thought I would let you know how sweet it is.... to quote that great poet laureate... Jackie Gleason...

If you ever need a reference for your company and business practices do not hesitate to call on me...

VERY PLEASED CUSTOMER

Not sure when... but we will be doing business again... just need to see something you are offering that I just gotta have... I know you know what I mean.

Mike...

The purchase of a B&K 747B tube tester was my first purchase transaction with SkyFi Audio! Based on this positive experience it is likely “NOT” my last purchase from them. The product was exactly in the condition it was stated to be in. The packing and shipping was great and appeared to be done in a way to insure no damage except for the worst treatment by shippers. The most pleasant parts of the transaction was excellent communications with Elliott of SkyFi apprising me every step of the way where things were and when to expect my package. Next, after the unit was delivered I was notified by SkyFi that it had delivered. Further, I was given confidence that if I had a problem they were available and seemingly eager to help. I’m sure I could have bounced around on the internet to find the unit at a cheaper price and have all the risk that goes with buying from unknown sources, but I believe their pricing was fair and reasonable, particularly considering the fact that SkyFi purports to have a technical department to check the equipment condition before sale and their knowledge base seems considerable. This overall idea helped make an easy decision to purchase from them. I recommend doing business with SkyFi.

Larry...