SSC

Our first tests using a string suspension to improve sound quality was made at the end of 1995. We modified several CD-transports of well known manufacturers to check the mechanical effect on their performance. The method was quite radical: the loading mechanism was removed and the transport was suspended inside the cabinet with a string suspension. The results were consistent.

All players showed a similar improvement in performance-extended resolution, more musical information and an expanded sense of space in all directions. There was no loss of performance in any area compared to the unmodified versions.

The intriguing aspect is that the transports were not decoupled and were actually more susceptible to external shock. The modification of other components proved to be rather complicated so the next logical step was to create an universal platform using the SSC principal. The prototypes confirmed that the same sonic improvements heard in the transport were achieved with the platforms.

A further experiment revealed another interesting benefit. The modified CD-transports were furhter improved when placed on top of a plattform. The improvement was not as great, but still audible. After further testing we were astonished by the improvement achieved with components that have no moving parts. Amplifiers, preamps, DA converters, and other cornponents all showed similar improvement to that heard with the CD transports. We also found, that the improvement was similar weather it was used under a loudspeakers, thought to benefit from rigid stands, was improved in the mids and highs. Only some very heavy speakers lost some bass impact in the bottom octave.

The first generation of SSC platform was released in 1996 and constructed of two wooden frames that were connected only with the specially designed string structure. lt was made versatile by attaching one frame to an adjustable platform. This first generation platform - now called the SSC-Basis-Classic - is still in production. In 1997 the SSC pucks were developed to provide more flexibihtyan eliminate the high cost of custom made platforms. The pucks utilize a prestressed web rather than string and require no adjustment to adapt to specific weight requirements of different components. Just add more units to accomodate greater weight.

Now we also offer a version made to replace standard component feet that indudes adapters for different thread sizes. This version uses a double sided web and is also used in the new SSC-Basis evolution as weIl as the Big-Pomt SSC-Puck. But the frequently asked question remains, why do SSC platforms sound better than many others? Ihis is not casily answered. Remember the original CD transports became more susceptible to external shock? Ihis indicates the SSC system is not a decoupling system. Furhtermore, sound improvements were independent of listening levels, which indicates it is affecting more than microphonics.

We do know that a string suspension creates an unequivocal mechanical relationship between the components it connects. And, a string can only transfer mechanical energy by transforming it into an internal stress. Therefore, external forces can only modulate the existing tension in the string.

This indicates that the pre-stressed condition of the supporting material is the key to how it reacts to external vibrations.

Whatever the exact reasons might be, listening will demonstrate that the sonic results are positive and significant weather the source is analog, digital, tube or solid state..