Alignment Gauges

Despite what some manufacturers claim, correct overhang length and alignment is critical to obtaining proper audio reproduction without distortion and avoiding unnecessary record and stylus wear. This is a precision task and cannot be done by eye or guess work alone.

While designing our own arms, Avid developed a computer program to calculate optimum alignment, taking into account the arms correct geometry. Every radial tracking arm with differing geometry will have different null points (were distortion is zero) and whilst our universal alignment gauge will be very accurate, the arm specific alignment gauges are 100% precise to the arm involved.
Currently we have specific gauges for SME, Rega and Linn arms.

The mirrored surface makes all measurements easier and more accurate. The mirror's parallax effect allows the elimination of sighting errors, and provides better lighting, critical in making fine adjustments on small parts. The two null points on the specific alignment tools are surrounded by parallel lines, making cartridge body alignment, both front and rear very precise and the long 'tail' alignment line is extended so that the stylus itself can be checked and aligned in case of cartridge manufacturing errors.

Level 45

Any precision instrument needs careful installation and our precision level is essential for best results. While other levels offer the ability to level a flat surface, most cannot level the platter correctly, especially in suspended designs.

Level 45 is manufactured in stainless steel, comes in two parts and offers a precision level and 45rpm adapter.

Designed to be used either individually or together, so the level can fit over the centre spindle.

Total weight is approximately 180g so suspended turntables can be reliably set up so when the level is removed and the record is played the platter will be running level.

naim slide

The legendary naim Aro pick up arm was originally designed for the Linn turntable and cartridge. Over the years however, many have found there way onto other turntables and use other cartridges. Whilst pick up arms have continued to develop over the years the Aro has remained faithful to its original design with its positive and negative aspects in place. The Aro lacks overhang adjustment, which if incorrect will increase tracking distortion, a lack of cue device, a common facility on modern arms and no fixed arm rest.

Avid's 'naim slide' addresses these issues, allowing the Aro arm to correctly accommodate any cartridge whilst fitted to one of our turntables. Overhang can be accurately set using our dedicated alignment protractor by simply sliding the arm base in relation to the record centre. The cue mechanism allows the valuable cartridge to be lowered safely and the fixed armrest gives greater security whilst not in use.
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Isopuk

Isopuks are highly effective component isolators designed to reduce structure borne vibration and its deleterious effects on audio signals.

Structure borne vibration affects virtually every piece of audio equipment, but its effects are most damaging to the tiny signals read and processed by source components such as CD players and non-isolated turntables.

Vibration enters audio components via the feet & the chassis, reducing clarity, smearing detail and distorting frequency response. Eliminating this structural resonance in audio equipment results in instantaneous audible improvements; increases in soundstaging, improved imaging and (most importantly) smoother more natural tonal balance.

Isopuks are manufactured using AVID’s uniquely tailored Sorbothane compound inserted into a machined solid aluminium housing. The shape enhances the Isopuk’s dissipation properties helps to further filter high frequency resonance. The felt base facilitates equipment movement and prevents furniture damage.

Available in two hardness levels, Isopuks offer an optimum loading range, ensuring performance geared towards the specific weight of the component. Mass loading should be equal on each Isopuk used; if the weight is imbalanced within the unit, additional Isopuks may be required under the heavier side to achieve proper isolation. An example of this would be under a power amplifier with a large, heavy transformer on one side; extra Isopuks should be used to help isolate this side.

A simple calculation will determine how many Isopuks are required for any piece of equipment.

Avid is pleased to confirm distribution of Sieveking Sound from Germany.

Sieveking Sound RCA and XLR End Caps are a NECCESARY accessory for all unused analogue inputs and outputs of audio components.

The caps are made of pure copper and are coated with gold. Inside there is an additional Teflon insert. This unique combination allows excellent high-frequency absorption.

The closure caps are for unused inputs and outputs for all Hi-Fi components. It’s a simple way to keep unwanted RFI and dust out of your components. Just place these over any unused RCA inputs/outputs on all of your components and these caps will block out any RFI that can add noise to your system.

Sonic improvements include lower noise floor, richer harmonic detail and improved air and spatial qualities.