We searched and experimented for
years to find an inexpensive, effective method to isolate difficult
vertical waves. We discovered and rejected rubber balls in cups in the
late 1990s when listening tests revealed the damage this method of
isolation did to what we considered to be essential aspects of sound
quality (bass overhang, transients, etc.). Similarly, sorbothane rubber
pads and bumpers, while simple and widely used, were found to cause
similar problems, as did inflatable air bags, etc. We also experimented
extensively with magnetic suspension footers, and while magnetic
techniques have their uses (Symposium has been granted two U.S. patents
that involve magnetic bias), we also rejected these, since
opposing-magnet suspensions exhibit markedly non-linear displacement.
That is, as the distance between magnets decreases (as, for instance,
due to vibration), the repulsion force of the magnets does stay the
same, but rather increases, and at an exponential rate. This problem of
gross non-linearity is shared by nearly all of the above systems, and
damages sonics when used with critical components.
The
breakthrough came when we experimented with a precision, conical spring
system internally damped with aircell foam. While it didn't seem very
glamorous or "high tech," this type of footer system, after some
"tweaking," demonstrated linear displacement characteristics over its
entire compression range - meaning that as displacement occurred in
response to wave vibration, the amount of resistance or opposing force
remained constant. This factor dramatically affects the sense of
dynamics in the affected component, and the LDSS system preserves "life"
in systems that would otherwise suffer its loss with more conventional
isolation schemes. Internal damping foam eliminates any resonances which
may be caused by the metal material of the spring footer itself, and
the footer's conical shape mimics a cones point, thus also exhibiting
the drainage and damping characteristics of cones and spikes. Taken all
together, the Linear Displacement Suspension System is a deceptively
simple yet very effective method of releasing all the sonic performance
lurking up in today's modern turntables - even the relatively
inexpensive ones.
Achieving 6 Degrees of Isolation
Used by itself, the ISO reduces or
eliminates floor-borne disturbances as well as bass feedback. By adding
a set of Rollerblock Jr., HDSE, or Series 2+, Rollerblocks, 6 degrees
of freedom isolation can be achieved. The Rollerblock®
system provides nearly perfect X-Y axis or lateral wave isolation,
while the Segue ISO provides Z-axis or vertical wave isolation. The
combination is a true, "6 degrees of freedom" isolation system,
otherwise only available in systems costing many thousands of dollars.
This combination represents a true breakthrough in comprehensive, low
frequency and higher frequency isolation at an affordable price.
Weight Capacity
The Segue ISO is currently available in two versions, LD and MD.
- LD or Light Duty: For turntables and components up to 35 pounds (about 16 kG)
- MD or Medium Duty: For turntables and components up to 80 pounds (about 36 kG)
Higher weight capacities are available on special order.
Dimensions and Weight
The Segue ISO is 2.25" (2 1/4") or
approximately 5.7 cm height with no load, and 1.75" (1 3/4") or
approximately 4.4 cm height with maximum weight load. A standard 19x14
(48cm x 35.5cm) platform weighs approximately 8 lbs (approximately 3.6
kG). While our popular size roster for platforms (see below) is still in
effect, the Segue ISO can be ordered in virtually any size.
Available Sizes
19x14, 19x18, 19x21, and 24x19; other sizes are available upon request.