Upcountry

Yep, I bought some stuff from Mr B. He's a grumpy quite unhelpful Chinese bloke, his prices are pretty rigid and not especially low, but the choice of old and new award-winners and classics he has is amazing. Plus all are tested by enthusiasts and he has no problems repairing and guaranteeing them.

He trades loads to/from rich playdaddies and a 200,000 baht sale is small fry to him.

But he wants B5,000 from me after just playing with my two old Thorens turntables and declaring them fixed. They still have speed problems. I asked for one good working one, and got two tidied up units that aren't suitable for digitizing music (for a huge sum!).

Talk about an unmetered taxi ride down a dark alley!

If I'm just not familiar with Bangkok prices for "fixing" old audio gear, please let me know. It would have been cheaper to get the bad news in Boston.

May I ask what audio interface you were using from T.T to comp?

choppy

Choppy, I record 24-bit via a USB A/D converter using Bias Peak on OS X, and clean up the audio with ClickFix in Cool Edit Pro. Then I dither to 16 with Peak again. Convoluted, but I get good results. So the weak point is the turntable at this point.

If I get another turntable, in addition to my pitch control requirement, I'd like to get one that can work with my Grado cartridges and Grado dedicated phono stage.

-UC

Thanks for your advice, Choppy.

Certainly there are issues with the belt-drive system, and the wear and tear on various parts all contribute to the lack of speed stability. The heavy platter of my table is supposed to make up for most of the natural variance in a new table.

I'm starting to think that the repair man working for Mr. Balance is convinced that what I'm complaining about is normal. But I've used this table for years, and it used to be easier to set the speed. I didn't start to get picky about the table keeping speed, though, until I started digitizing, so I can't say how it used to be. Bought both my tables used.

I'm mainly archiving to FLAC (CD's and MP3's are for specific cases). I'm even converting my CD's to FLAC since lossless digital is probably the way of the future.

Update about Mr. Balance. I faxed him and requested a detailed itemization of the work done for the 5k baht he wants. He whined about how can he list things about motors etc. Diabolical! How can he not see the wisdom of that? I'm supposed to be meek and accept everything he says without question.

I called Thorens today (the have direct line at last) and got the news that there is no official distributor or repair center in Thailand. The person I spoke to also confirmed that they have no spare parts my for table. So, if I need a new pulley, etc., I simply have to search around for another used part (that may not improve upon the old one). That's why I brought both tables to the shop - to make one good one - not to pay double to "fix" both. Makes me sick that he purposely ignored that information (didn't check with me first if there was doubt).

I'm sill confused about why he feels justified in charging such a high price. Is it because anyone who had "good" hi-fi equipment in this country is supposed to be a walking ATM too? Is it the going rate?

-UC

Richard, actually, found this great link for your table:

http://www.retrohifi.co.uk/thorens_150.html

You've probably already been there.

Incidentally, I want to contact KS World (last I heard, the Thorens dealer or official service provider), in Bangkok, but the number on their website is wrong, and the number from information rings forever. I guess they are not in business these days.

If anyone reading this knows how to get in touch with them, I'd appreciate the help.

-UC

Oh, by the way, does your TD150 have a pitch control? I looked on the Internet, can't tell for sure, but pictures of the table don't show one.

Thanks, richm7,

Yes, both are 125s, and like I told the shop, I really just need on working table, so the good motor/pulley should go on the best table.

I also got service stuff on the Internet, which I gave to a technical man in my town who worked on the tables for a while.

Thanks for your input about the KAB. It is indeed a ploy by the "repair man" in Phantip to try to convince me that I shouldn't so picky about speed.

-UC

http://www.kabusa.com/strobeQ.htm

This is the precision tool I use to check the speed of my turntable. Mr. Balance questions its validity.

It may be more accurate than the table spec, but if the table's strobe also indicates trouble setting the speed correctly, and shows drift, then asking me to just "use my ears" seems churlish.

Am I wrong about this?

Hi Richard,

Khun jai dee, krab! ;-)

Thanks for your response and feedback about the Phantip shop.

I didn't mention the table model since I didn't think it would matter to most folks.

Both machines are the Thorens TD 125 MKII model. Belt drive, strobe light, pitch control. The pulley (coming from the motor) on one machine is a bit wobbly, which might have an effect on the belt. I put new belts on both machines.

I appreciate your offer, as I have been thinking that I may need to ask for help like that. The number of records I need to digitize is not quite enough to justify buying a new high-end table (duck, panraya swinging!) so it's a tough call.

I've been gradually converting all my music to FLAC. I make CD's for special stuff, and MP3's for the car.

-UC

/recorde once, listen many times!

I'm looking for feedback from others who have had hi-fi equipment repaired at the Mr. Balance shop on the top floor of Phantip Plaza. Did you get good results or the run-around? Was the price reasonable or outlandish?

Here's my experience, so far:

On the advice of a TV member, I hauled two Thorens turntables down to Mr. Balance in Phantip Plaza for repair.

My problem is with speed. The tables do not maintain a steady speed over time. I also have trouble setting the speed in the first place with the built-in pitch control, thanks to work done by another technician. One table has a bad pulley.

I brought both tables to him because parts from one could be used in the other to make one good table. I told him this.

A couple of weeks later, he called to tell me that both tables had been fixed, the total cost of repair was B5,000.

I was quite surprised at that. But, would happily pay it if I could go home with two tables that would serve me well for a long time to come.

My main goal is to record my record collection to digital, clean them up and make CD's, as well as FLAC and MP3 versions. It's a case of "record once, listen many times." So, this is not about casual listening. Getting the speed set as accurately as possible for my old table is important.

So, I was taken aback when he had one response to what had been done to both tables to "repair" them. He said, "about the motor", which is rather vague, indicating that he really didn't know. I also asked what oil might have been used for lubrication, because this is an issue; I haven't gotten a really good answer yet from dealers and repair people yet. He derisively said, "why don't you ask the dealer?

So, I came in to check them out before paying.

After a long time testing, I had to come to the conclusion that the repairs I had asked for had not been done. The pitch control was as difficult to deal with as before, and it still seemed to 'drift" even when I took note of the speed before leaving it along for a while. But I couldn't verify this until I was sure I'd set the speed right to begin with. The proprietors assistant watched as I did this. I verified the problem with both an accurate speed tester and visual observation of the built-in turntable strobe. Later he told "Mr. Balance" that he thought I was only using my LED testing tool, not the built-in strobe.

I told him about the problems, and he said "please write the problem down on paper". I had to catch a bus back home, so I asked for his email and for his technician's number ( a customer was in the store at the time, so he gave the number to me - earlier he demurred when I asked for it over the phone). I emailed him the next day.

I called later to see if he had read the email. He hadn't, but asked me to call him in the morning, when he said he'd be talking to his technician. I did so, had to call back later because he hadn't' gotten there, and at that point he suggested that my expensive speed tester (a KAB SpeedStrobe, that accurately checks the speed regardless of power issues) was not a good thing to test with. I should be using my eyes to verify with the built-in strobe. I tried to tell him that I saw the same problem with the strobe, but I don't think he heard me.

This conversation was repeated, more or less, when I called another day to see if he had read the email. I called again today to ask for his fax number, and (before I could ask) I got an even more interesting response. He said I should bring my tone arm in (this table has a removable arm) and use my ears as well as my eyes. I tried to explain how some people might hear the pitch difference more than me, but he didn't hear that.

The message I'm getting repeatedly is that I'm being a pain (krueng jai) and a fool for expecting the table be easily set to a speed and to keep it. He tells me that he has checked it out and doesn't see the problem.

Now, I fully acknowledge that this problem is a bit subjective, and subject to how picky one is, but I'm the customer with a testing tool, and the technician is telling me to 'use my ears'.

I'm about to send a fax detailing things I had told him in person, and ask him to discuss it with his tech. Maybe there will be good news in the end, but I'm concerned that Thai culture may be getting in the way (Mr. Balance may not want to push his tech into a corner, etc.). But he is asking me to pay much more than a repair service would ask in the U.S. for work that does not seem to have been done.

It feels like the old car mechanic trick, or audio repair shops I've dealt with in the states - hold your possession ransom for demanded cash, while making excuses and other nonsense to avoid admitting that the don't have the capacity to fix the problem.

OK, TIT, of course. But I am very frustrated, because an audiophile member of this forum highly recommended this guy. That's why I went to him instead of trying to deal with language issues I've had with the Thorens dealer/official service center in Bangkok. This man speaks fairly good English in person and comes across professionally, but maybe I had a little too much faith in him. I regret using his "repair" service now, and will probably avoid buying from him too, unless things change.

That's why I am asking to hear of other's experiences. I don't want to misjudge him if there might be a better explanation. But I don't care to be "taken for a ride" either.

If I end up getting screwed, having to pay a 5k Baht ransom to get my non-repaired tables back, this should be a warning to others. If he gives me a break in the price of a failed repair, or finally gets his tech to make the necessary adjustments/repairs, then we can end this story happily and other folks can go to him with confidence.

-UC

If you have heavily tinted windows, reversing sensors will help.

I saw it today at a store that sells wheels and stereo equipment. They also showed me speakers that can improve the stock ones.

I asked about a USB adapter (like the iPOD input in the new top-end Jazz). Their only solution was a stereo head unit replacement with an LCD etc.

No gauge options for real-time mileage readout or temperature gauge. I hate idiot lights!

I'd like to be able to see how much gas I'm burning at any given time.

Looking for this:

When you say enhanced, do you mean to turn it into a racing car like this,

Nice car! Other than stereo, tires and gauge, my idea of mod is anything that will improve fuel economy along with performance. The main reason I got the car was because it is "green'.

There are dozens of Jazz related clubs & magazines around. My Thai mates here in Surin have Jazz 'show cars' and love to talk 'Jazz' IN THAI !

If you have no luck, PM and I will do some 'digging'

Thanks for offers to help. Tilokaratm and Dave!

In Phitsanulok, only one station sells 95 benzine, one reason got rid of my old 95 burner. That's why I found it very ironic that Shell suddenly made 91 unavailable here just as soon as I got a 91 burner! Interesting to hear that Shell in your town sells 96 benzine. Actually, it is probably up to the owner of the station. I think one owner has both of the Shell's I have visited.

According to my wife (Thai manual, waiting to get an English one), my '07 Honda Jazz can use 91 or 95 octane gasohol. The previous owner liked 95.

I'd prefer to use 91 benzine since my car sits in the garage for days at a time, and I think that gasohol will evaporate, even in a new-ish car.

snowflake,

Sorry to hear about your springs. Are these the standard springs for the sport package?

I just got a 2007 (1 year on the road, 28k) that doesn't seem to have any problems.

I want to modify my Jazz in the following ways:

1. Sub woofer for the stereo (saw a compact one on the web: www.honda-access.com/dk/da/Images/68227.pdf).

2. Nice wheels to replace the stock ones (but I'll stick with 15" because I've read that's the best for fuel economy, ride comfort and performance).

3. Gauge for real-time fuel economy and engine temperature

Anyone have suggestions on where to look for them?

Just got a 2007 Jazz. The seller told me to use 95 gasohol or 91 benzine.

I guess the higher octane gasohol makes up for the lower power output somewhat.

The car drove fine on the highway, but I park my car for days at a time, so benzine is better for me.

Recently I found that Shell stopped selling 91 benzine in my area (very ironic, because I recently sold an old 95 burner since that was too hard to find).

At first I though they were just cheating (waiting for the price to go up) but I guess they're just interested in forcing gasohol on the market.

Is this true, part of trend that may take benzine off the market here in Thailand?

I just bought a 2007 Jazz SV. It came with factory 15" wheels and SR15 tires that look silly with the sport package.

I see these cars tooling around with fancy 17" wheels, and figured I'd do the same, but then I learned that bigger wheels reduce fuel economy, comfort and even acceleration. So 15" is really best. With the 15's, I find that the ride is quite comfortable for a small car.

For me, saving fuel and having a comfortable ride is more important than showing off my taste in sporty wheels. But I would like to find white or black rims for the 15" size.

I am looking for other accessories, as well, such as a compact sub woofer, maybe fog lamps, and some kind of real-time kpl/mpg/temperature gauge. I thought I saw something like that on a 2006 model. I wonder if I should go to the dealer for these things.

Regarding the steering wheel audio volume controls, they don't seem to be working on my car. I wonder if that is a defect or if there is a switch somewhere I need to flip. I only have a Thai manual for the car (stereo manual is in English but doesn't mention the steering wheel controls except for one picture, as far as I can tell).

BTW, this is off topic, but I heard that Shell stations in my area have stopped selling 91 octane benzine! Is this a nation-wide trend, to force us into gasohol?

Just found out that the following accessories are available in the US, at least, for the Mazda 3 Sport:

http://www.mazda.com.au/Forms/Configure%20your%20Mazda.aspx

Audio and Comms

Bluetooth hands free kit (standard audio) $370.00

iPod adaptor $240.00

Retractable audio cable (3.5mm male-to-male) $15.00

I didn't see the port when I saw a car in the Mazda showroom.

From what my wife can tell, in the Thai brochure, no auxiliary port is mentioned.

Hope someone can confirm what is true, and if it can be added aftermarket.

-U

Hi, thinking about buying a 2008 2.0 Mazda 3 Sport Maxx, but as far as I can tell it doesn't come with a USB port like some new Honda's and other brands do.

I'm wondering if there is at least an "auxiliary input" in the back of the head unit so that an aftermarket USB kit can be added (not expecting it to integrate with the display).

Also, from what I've heard (with my ears), the Mazda's here don't come with a very good stereo - the 7-speaker Bose set up offered in a top model overseas is not available for sale in Thailand.

So, I'm wondering if better speakers can be placed in the existing door cavities to improve the sound. I could probably add a subwoofer behind the rear seats, but it has to be movable for transporting larger items.

Any success stories or tales of woe would be welcome, thanks!

-Upcountry

That shop on Floor 5 of Pan Tip is called "Mister Balance" Owner Khun Pawdee.

Anybody know the phone number to this shop?

I found a website called misterbalance, but it's not very functional and doesn't give a clue about the location of the business.

http://www.misterbalance.com/index.php?cPath=21

I'm a long way from Bangkok, so it would be smarter for me to call first.

-Upcountry

Wondering about the appropriate sale price for the top end 2006 Jazz. Any experiences with this?

Sorry for miss-spelling "ADSL" in the subject title.

Has anyone had good luck with this router, especially using True Maxnet?

ZyXEL P660R ADSL 2+ Router

I've had to uninstall and avoid updating my XP systems to SP3 (service pack three) because of an incompatibility issue with the modem drivers and new network protocol implementations in SP3. They crash frequently when I connect with a SP3 system.

I can't find driver updates for the Asus AAM 6000EV/Z2 that came with on of my True subscriptions. Same with my D-Link DSL-G604T.

So, I'm looking for a router that is compatible with SP3. A local merchant offered me the Linksys AM300, but internet research indicates it is slow, and probably doesn't support P2P/bit torrent traffic.

I saw the Zyxel Prestige 630 mentioned in another thread here. It seems like it was last updated by Zyxel in 2005.

I'd like to ask if there are any recommendations to solve both my problems:

1. SP3 computability

2. Bit Torrent speed support

I only need one ethernet port, since I have a switch to connect to it. I also don't need wireless.

Thanks for your input!

-Upcountry

I called BMW Thailand today. After talking to a Thai technician, he transferred me to a German man connected to customer relations, I think. He adamantly stated the company line, that LPG is very bad for the car. He called LPG taxi's rolling bombs (connections the same as we see in the kitchen here - scary!).

Obviously, the car company doesn't want to touch any liability issues with "a ten foot pole", but it does point up how tricky it is to get the job done right. The other issue is the burn temperature, etc. He warned that engine life would suffer. I could not get him to discuss the fuel-mix aspect of the Voltran Vogas system, which I hoped he would be able to tell me might solve the problems.

One engineer did say that the 'BM could be tuned to handle 91, but there would be long-term problems doing that (see my note above about mixing 91 with LPG via the "Voltran Vogas system with split fuel technology").

The German guy maintained that E10 is fine for my '93 BMW, and this flies in the face of what I've been told before (fuel filter change, etc.).

Weird, eh?

I'm considering the cost/benefit of just getting the filter and rubber tube upgrades my car needs to run on ethanol vs installing an LPG system.

Now that I've learned that the car still needs to start on gas/ethanol, and that the Vogas system mixes whatever is in the car's gas tank, it gets tricky.

I don't want to fill the tank with ethanol just for starting. Ethanol tends to evaporate (degrade?) faster than gasoline, right?, so that's not great. My car requires 95 octane gas, which is getting near impossible to find in my area (Shell stopped selling it), so my choice is either 91 or ethanol.

I wonder how this figures into the Vogas octane equation, since by design, it seems to me, it is meant to mix the car's required octane with the LPG. This involves timing adjustments, for sure. Would this fuel combination actually give me the benefits that Vogas promises?

Given the complexity, maintenance and expense of the LPG setup, maybe I'm better off just suffering with ethanol.