Gramophone Dreams

Sidebar: Another June night

Because the AMG turntable sits rigidly on three adjustable spiked feet, it seemed wise to repeat my auditioning with the Giro G9 sitting on my PS Audio PerfectWave PowerBase isolation platform and power conditioner ($995, discontinued). Normally, I use the PowerBase passively—not as a conditioner, but only as a platform for my Linn LP12, to prevent footfalls on my bunker's ancient wooden floor from becoming part of my music.

The PowerBase worked some unanticipated magic with the AMG Giro G9. Besides making the turntable noticeably quieter, it sharpened the AMG's already Leica-like focus. Immediately, I noted the absence of a slight blurring that I'd never known was there. This effect was not subtle. Anyone considering the purchase of a Giro G9 should also consider using an isolation base, like the isolation base made especially for AMG turntables by HRS ($2595).—Herb Reichert