01 Reference Garrard 301/401 plinth

Restoring a Garrard 301 or 401 to its full potential involves more than rebuilding the mechanism. The plinth is part of the mechanical system and has a significant influence on the performance of the finished turntable.
 
The Garrard motors are exceptionally robust, providing the torque and speed stability for which these turntables are known. They also generate mechanical energy that can travel through the chassis and plinth and ultimately reach the stylus. The objective is not simply to add mass, but to control how this energy is transferred and dissipated.
 
Many traditional Garrard plinths rely primarily on mass. While this can reduce movement, a large rigid structure can also store mechanical energy and return it to the system. The Shida Reference Plinth takes a different approach, combining rigidity, mass and controlled damping.
The 65 mm Keruing plywood motor board provides a rigid and stable foundation for the chassis, with a Forbo interface between the two. Three internal columns within the motor board combine graphite and Panzerholz, with 70 duro Sorbothane hemispheres providing controlled mechanical interfaces within the structure.
 
The tonearm is mounted to a separate arm board combining graphite, Corian and Panzerholz. This provides the required rigidity while introducing controlled damping at the arm mounting point.
Isolation is integrated into the plinth rather than added beneath it. The lower section contains internal silos housing 36 mm S55 elastomer spring isolators. Each is loaded according to the weight it supports, allowing the elastomer to operate within its intended range. Correctly configured, the system provides low-frequency isolation extending to approximately 12 Hz.
 
Construction is to the same standard as the engineering. Carefully selected hardwoods, precision machined components and high quality structural materials are assembled with close attention to fit and alignment. The visible surfaces are hand finished to a high standard, with the finish chosen to complement the natural character of the timber rather than conceal it.
 
The result is a plinth that combines structural rigidity, controlled mechanical damping and integrated low frequency isolation with the level of construction and finish expected from a piece of high end furniture. The aim is straightforward: to allow the 301 or 401 to operate with less unwanted mechanical feedback while providing a properly finished, durable foundation for the turntable.