Weighing in at over 16 kg and with parts turned from solid aluminium and carefully polished, the Max is no lightweight. But above all, it is a modular turntable, which is therefore intended for enthusiasts who are fond of customisation.

The belt-driven motor can be placed either inside or outside the chassis, simply by changing the length of the belt. The belt is adjusted to the central pulley and then the 7 kg turntable is gently placed on its axis and the job is done. A second arm support is provided for those who have more than one cell and an adapted preamp.

Finally, the smoothness of the rotation can be improved by using an external power supply called Konstant Eins.

This is the configuration we tested. Starting and changing gears is done by simply turning the upper disc of the Konstant Eins, also made of solid aluminium, horizontally. Ergonomic and eminently tactile. The mounted arm is the original Jelco TR-800S 9-inch S-arm. It will soon be replaced by a Rega straight arm - Jelco having recently ceased all activity. The cell is the MM Uccello, a derivative of the Goldring G1000 MM.

Listening

The version we listened to includes the Konstant Eins regulated power supply. The platter, despite its imposing mass, rotates very freely on its axis, a sign of good inertia and satisfactory torque.

However, you should not hesitate to leave the turntable spinning between two records, as the small belt takes time to start the platter at the right speed. This speed is however kept regular by both the moving mass and the motor control. The arm is classic, well designed and easy to adjust, it perfectly guides the MM cell which does not demerit. The whole is characterized by a calm, serene side, with a beautiful width and presence.

The bottom end of the spectrum is very well held and solidly structured, but with a somewhat wise character.

We then move on to another cell, an icon of the 80's, the Kiseki Blue NS in MC, which has been brought up to date - at almost ten times the price of the MM Uccello. A change of universe: the soundstage opens up completely, a curtain is drawn, everything is brighter, more incisive, better articulated and above all, what a life, what a sense of rhythm and melodic follow-up!

A test well in the spirit that such a turntable can evolve according to the desire of its purchaser. As for the next Rega arm, we will have to listen before deciding...