Installaton Experience

Why did you choose SERENE components?

After a good deal of research, the Serene Aluminium was just what I required. To my eyes I preferred the look of the Serene Arm Board to Linn’s. it is a very well made impeccably finished product.

(The Arm Board together with an Aluminium Majik Sub-Chassis would be on the same lines as Linn’s Keel…hopefully)

Why did you decide to do the install yourself?

I enjoy a challenge, if you take your time & have clear & full instructions, then most things are possible to D.I.Y.

Overall, how easy did you find the installation?

The install was fairly easy, Arm Board is attached via 3 Allen bolts. The only other thing to do is attach a tonearm.

Approximately how long did the install take?

The actual Arm Board attaching to the Sub-Chassis took no more than 10 minutes. However, the tonearm took a little longer. The whole job completed in an afternoon; I did not hurry.

Did you change any other components at the same time? (e.g.: bearing, arm, cartridge etc)

I ended up upgrading to a Cirkus bearing, Majik Sub-Chassis, new suspension springs & grommet and of course the Stack Serene Arm Board.

Are you happy with the result?

The improvement in sound is quite stunning. I played a favourite 80’s album to my wife and she swears I went out and brought a new copy! The improvement in detail, more controlled bass & cleaned up vocals has bought my mid 80’s Linn Sondek into the 21^st century. I now can’t wait to spin another album.

What was the trickiest bit?

Getting the Arm Board square in the Linn’s orifice. With a MDF laminate Arm Board the self-tapping screws give a little wriggle room, to align things. You have to get things right from the Sub-Chassis. This is only for aesthetics, even if the Arm Board is not perfectly square, it will not affect the sound.

Would you service/install it again yourself or take it to a dealer?

I would definitely service or try an install myself again. (I caught the upgrade bug, I now have an Ittok & new cartridge to install, to replace my Basik plus.)

What advice would you give to someone who is starting out installing the parts for the first time?

Take your time, make sure you have all the parts & tools you need before you begin. Read as many guides as you can find on the internet. A jig of some description is an invaluable tool.