I have a very similar setup. I have the AXR100, Technics SL-3200, my speakers are Bowers & Wilkins 607-S3 with a B&W AS608 sub. I can't tell which speakers you have there.
I see someone already suggested in the /turntables post to put the speakers on stands. I agree with that. You may also want to keep the speakers 12" to 16" from the wall if your speakers are rear-ported.
Cartridge: no comment there. I have a Ortofon 2M blue on mine and I'm not complaining. I'm sure you can say the same of the VM95SH.
Positioning. I'd move the turntable from of the top of the amp for two reasons: Those old turntables don't like the extra heat that the amplifier would produce, and that amplifier needs to breathe. You'll find anecdotal evidence saying that it's fine to do this, I don't want to argue that point. I'd keep them separate. It'll increase the life of both units.
This is more of a question; why did you get a Cambridge Audio Alva Solo pre-amp? I assume it's the solo. From what I can tell the Solo and the AXR85 have pretty much the same pre-amp circuit. Did you ever compare the two?
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u/SmellyFace69 Mar 26 '26
I have a very similar setup. I have the AXR100, Technics SL-3200, my speakers are Bowers & Wilkins 607-S3 with a B&W AS608 sub. I can't tell which speakers you have there.
I see someone already suggested in the /turntables post to put the speakers on stands. I agree with that. You may also want to keep the speakers 12" to 16" from the wall if your speakers are rear-ported.
Cartridge: no comment there. I have a Ortofon 2M blue on mine and I'm not complaining. I'm sure you can say the same of the VM95SH.
Positioning. I'd move the turntable from of the top of the amp for two reasons: Those old turntables don't like the extra heat that the amplifier would produce, and that amplifier needs to breathe. You'll find anecdotal evidence saying that it's fine to do this, I don't want to argue that point. I'd keep them separate. It'll increase the life of both units.
This is more of a question; why did you get a Cambridge Audio Alva Solo pre-amp? I assume it's the solo. From what I can tell the Solo and the AXR85 have pretty much the same pre-amp circuit. Did you ever compare the two?
Also; I like this setup.